Decorative plasters

Decorative plasters

Decorative Plasters

Decorative plaster transforms plain walls and ceilings into finished surfaces with depth, movement, and a distinct character. It can be subtle and elegant or bold and textured, depending on the look you want and the room it belongs in. We apply decorative finishes for homes, apartments, offices, retail spaces, and hospitality interiors, delivering clean workmanship and a consistent result across every wall.

Unlike standard paint, decorative plaster adds a tactile layer that plays with light and shadow. It can help define feature walls, elevate hallways and stairwells, and bring warmth to open plan living areas. Our service includes guidance on finish selection, sample testing, surface preparation, professional application, and careful protection of surrounding areas.

Finishes and styles we apply

We work with a range of decorative plaster systems to match different interiors, budgets, and durability requirements. During the consultation we discuss the level of sheen, texture, and pattern you prefer, then recommend the most suitable option for your space.

  • Venetian style polished plaster for a smooth, stone like appearance with a refined sheen.
  • Fine texture and concrete effect finishes for modern interiors that need a clean, architectural feel.
  • Sand and mineral textures that add warmth and hide minor imperfections better than flat paint.
  • Subtle trowel and cloud effects that create gentle movement without heavy texture.
  • Feature wall finishes designed to work with lighting, artwork, and built in furniture.

If you are also planning broader works like wall and ceiling finishing, we can coordinate the decorative plaster schedule with other trades so the final coat is applied at the right time and remains protected until handover.

Our process, from preparation to final protection

Great decorative plaster depends on what sits underneath it. We focus on thorough preparation and controlled application so the finish looks intentional, not improvised. Every project is planned around the chosen material, drying times, and site conditions.

  1. Site review and samples to confirm the look, texture, and colour tone under your lighting.
  2. Protection and masking of floors, sockets, trims, and nearby furniture.
  3. Surface preparation including cleaning, repairing, leveling, and priming for proper adhesion.
  4. Base coats and build up applied in layers to achieve depth and even absorption.
  5. Decorative coat application using the correct tools and technique for the selected system.
  6. Finishing and sealing where required for washability and long term performance.

For new builds and renovations, we can also align the work with drywall ceiling installation or freshly plastered surfaces, ensuring adequate curing time and a stable substrate before the decorative layers go on.

Where decorative plaster works best

Decorative plaster is versatile, but the right finish should match how the room is used. In low traffic areas you can opt for more delicate looks, while busy spaces often benefit from finishes that can be cleaned and touched up more easily.

  • Living rooms and dining areas for feature walls, media walls, and fireplace surrounds.
  • Bedrooms for calm textures that soften the space without visual clutter.
  • Hallways and staircases to create durable, attractive surfaces in high visibility zones.
  • Kitchens on suitable walls away from direct heat and splashing, using sealed systems when needed.
  • Bathrooms in dry zones with moisture appropriate products and protective coatings.
  • Commercial interiors such as reception areas, meeting rooms, salons, and boutiques.

If your project involves layout changes, such as new partitions or leveling of existing surfaces, we can integrate decorative plaster with interior wall construction work so the finished look is consistent from newly built areas to existing walls.

Quality, durability, and what to expect

Our goal is a finish that looks great on day one and holds up over time. We apply decorative plaster with attention to uniformity, edges, corners, and transitions to adjacent materials like wood trim, tiles, and painted walls. Before we begin, we confirm expectations around natural variation, since many decorative finishes are intentionally handcrafted and will show gentle movement rather than perfect flatness.

What we consider on every job

  • Substrate condition since cracks, dust, or uneven absorption can affect the final appearance.
  • Lighting including spotlights and daylight, which can highlight texture and trowel patterns.
  • Drying and curing to avoid marks, shrinkage, or colour shifts.
  • Maintenance needs so you know how to clean the surface and when resealing is advisable.

We finish by removing masking carefully, cleaning the work area, and walking through the completed surfaces with you. If you need advice on care or want to plan additional rooms later, we can recommend compatible products and match the existing finish as closely as possible.

To book a site visit or discuss a specific finish, share a few photos of your space and the look you want, and we will help you choose a decorative plaster system that fits your interior and timeline.

FAQ

How long does decorative plaster take to apply in an average room?

Most rooms take 1 to 3 days depending on surface preparation, the chosen finish, and drying times between layers. Feature walls are often completed faster than full room applications. We confirm a schedule after seeing the substrate and access conditions.

Can decorative plaster be applied over existing paint?

Sometimes yes, but the wall must be stable, clean, and properly primed for adhesion. Glossy or peeling paint usually needs sanding, bonding primer, or removal before application. We assess the surface and recommend the safest preparation method.

Is decorative plaster washable and suitable for high traffic areas?

Many systems can be sealed to improve washability and stain resistance. For hallways, commercial spaces, and family homes, we typically recommend a durable finish plus an appropriate protective coating. We will advise on cleaning methods to avoid damaging the texture or sheen.