One interior design option that has been gaining popularity recently is Venetian plastering. If you have only just discovered this unique method of coating walls, ceilings, or architectural features, then you may be wondering if it is the right choice for your home. Here’s a look at exactly what it is and how it can be used to best effect.
Understanding Venetian plaster types
Venetian plaster is made from a traditional mixture of slaked lime putty with marble dust. Unlike other types of plaster, dyes are usually added so that the surface is the colour of your choice and there is no need to add any other layers.
Furthermore, different textures can be achieved by adding grains of variable sizes to the mixture. This can create a unique and characterful wall covering that can be smooth and polished, subtly textured to replicate natural stone or cement, or deliberately roughened to create a rustic atmosphere.
Where can Venetian plaster be used?
Venetian plaster is essentially for decorative purposes rather than a construction material. Therefore it works best in areas that are not subject to heavy traffic or moisture, such as bedrooms, living rooms, or ceilings and crevices. It can be used in kitchens or bathrooms with a special protective coat, but not for areas that come into direct contact with water.
Consider the effect of the light
Venetian plaster is applied in thin layers and has a slightly translucent quality. The colours and textures can take on a different appearance depending on the lighting, and have a unique depth that brings a certain warmth and sophistication to the room. Test a sample to see how it looks under both natural and artificial light to ensure you will have a great result.
What type of aesthetic do you aspire to?
Venetian plaster is a highly versatile medium that can be adapted to a range of interior design styles. For example, if you have a contemporary urban space, then the fashionable industrial look may be the ideal option. This effect can be achieved with a microcement finish, the result of mixing coarse-grained aggregate with the plaster.
The microcement is a decorative finish, but it is more durable than traditional Venetian plaster and can withstand greater wear and tear. It can be roughened to different degrees depending on the effect that you want to achieve.
Polished metallic plaster
If you want to create a focal point such as a feature wall or a piece of statement furniture, then metallic Venetian plaster is an excellent choice. It’s created by adding metallic particles to the plaster, and it can be applied to create textured, smooth or glossy surfaces. This brings a sophisticated shimmer that will be a real talking point.
Choose from shades of gold, copper, silver, or bronze, or even opt for more unconventional colours to be added to the mix. Metallic plaster can also be used to create stunning stencil work, whether for a beautiful pattern in your own home, or a company logo in a commercial space.