Why Polished Plaster is Becoming the Go-To Choice for High-End Interiors
When it comes to luxury interior finishes, polished plaster is rapidly becoming a preferred option over traditional paint. Known for its timeless elegance, durability, and ability to create depth and texture, polished plaster is redefining the way designers and architects approach surface finishes. But how does it compare to traditional paint, and which is the best choice for your next project?
What is Polished Plaster?
Polished plaster is a decorative surface finish made from slaked lime, marble dust, and natural pigments. Also referred to as Venetian plaster, it is applied in multiple layers and then burnished to create a smooth, high-gloss or subtly textured surface. This artisanal technique has been used for centuries, offering a sophisticated alternative to conventional paint finishes.
The Key Differences: Polished Plaster vs. Traditional Paint
Aesthetic Appeal & Luxury Finish
Polished Plaster: Offers a high-end, bespoke look with variations in texture, sheen, and depth. It creates a natural stone-like finish, making it ideal for luxury interiors.
Traditional Paint: Provides a uniform, flat, or satin finish, but lacks the rich visual texture of polished plaster.
Durability & Longevity
Polished Plaster: Extremely durable and resistant to wear, making it perfect for high-traffic areas such as hotel lobbies, luxury residences, and commercial spaces.
Traditional Paint: Can chip, peel, or fade over time, requiring frequent touch-ups, especially in high-traffic areas.
Maintenance & Upkeep
Polished Plaster: Naturally mould-resistant, breathable, and easy to maintain. Minor scratches can often be buffed out without needing a full repaint.
Traditional Paint: Prone to stains and scuffs, often requiring regular maintenance and repainting.
Sustainability & Eco-Friendliness
Polished Plaster: Made from natural materials, it absorbs CO₂ over time, improving indoor air quality and making it a more sustainable choice.
Traditional Paint: Many conventional paints contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that can contribute to indoor air pollution.
Cost Considerations
Polished Plaster: Higher initial cost due to the craftsmanship required, but longer-lasting with minimal maintenance.
Traditional Paint: More affordable upfront, but costs accumulate with frequent repainting and touch-ups.
Where to Use Polished Plaster vs. Traditional Paint
Polished Plaster is Ideal For:
✔ Luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, and boutique retail spaces
✔ Statement feature walls in living rooms, dining areas, and offices
✔ Bathrooms and kitchens due to its breathable, moisture-resistant properties
✔ Architectural spaces where texture and depth are key design elements
Traditional Paint is Best For:
✔ Budget-conscious projects requiring a simple, uniform colour application
✔ Temporary spaces or rental properties where frequent repainting is expected
✔ Low-traffic areas that don’t require heavy-duty surface durability
Final Verdict: Why Polished Plaster is the Superior Choice
While traditional paint remains a staple for quick and cost-effective applications, polished plaster is the ultimate choice for those looking to add luxury, depth, and durability to their interiors. With its stunning visual impact, natural sustainability, and low maintenance requirements, polished plaster provides a long-term solution for high-end spaces.
If you’re an architect, interior designer, or property developer looking to enhance your next project, explore Viero UK's range of premium polished plaster finishes. Contact us today to learn how we can bring your vision to life!
