Have you found yourself staring at walls of late? We know we have. That’s because plaster in its many transfixing guises is making a big comeback. Interiors finished with plaster have a depth and luminosity that shifts with the light, quietly transforming the look and feel of a house. And there’s no paint required: Left in its raw state, plaster is an environmentally sound natural material—breathable, and free of chemicals and VOCs.
True, plaster walls are more expensive than painted drywall; that’s because they’re more labor intensive to install (most require at least three coats). But they’re also typically longer lasting and more beautiful. For interior applications, here are six main categories to consider illustrated by some of our favorite projects of late.
N.B.: Before taking the plaster plunge in your own home, look into substrate requirements; all plasters need to bond to a surface and that varies by type and brand—as does the durability and waterproofness of the particular plaster. Troweling skills are required and patience: You have to wait for each layer to dry.
Clay Plaster
Composed of clay, sand, and pigments, clay plaster is considered so healthy, it’s often used by people with chemical sensitivities. It comes in powdered form in a range of earthy shades and has very matte, often rough, finishes. Though not to be used in wet zones, such as bathrooms and kitchens, clay plaster has moisture-absorbing (and desorbing) abilities that make it a humidity regulator elsewhere in the house. To apply, mix with water on-site (achieving the right consistency takes some trial and error) and apply to a sanded, primed surface in four or five layers.
For a US source, consider American Clay of Albuquerque. Photograph by Nicholas Worley.
Slaked Lime Plaster
This is what the plaster walls in your great grandparents’ house were made of. Starting with wood lath, a coarse “scratch coat” (plaster mixed with shrinkage-preventing aggregates, such as horse hair) was applied followed by a “brown coat” (plaster mixed with sand), and finally a fine skim coat. Composed of limestone that has been baked at extreme temperatures to remove all impurities, hydrated—or slaked—lime plaster comes in an aged putty form, so, unlike other options, you don’t have to hand-mix it and you’re not under a time constraint to apply it.
Pure white in its basic form, it now comes in a huge range of colors. Left unpainted, like clay plaster, it takes in moisture and releases it—and unlike clay plaster can be used in kitchens and baths (but shouldn’t be exposed directly to water). If desired, a protective layer of bee’s wax or Marseilles soap can be added.
Architectural preservationists Master of Plaster of Columbia, South Carolina, specialize in slaked lime plasters, and resident designer, Lauren Dillon, is a fount of information about why, where, and how to use it. She explains: “After being applied, hydrated lime plasters go through a process called curing wherein they don’t necessarily dry out like a clay or a paint, but they absorb carbon dioxide and complete the lime cycle on your surface, in essence turning back to stone—so when people say lime plaster looks and feels like stone or marble, it’s because it truly is.” Photograph by Justine Hand for Remodelista.
Gypsum Plaster
More humble and finicky than slaked lime, gypsum plaster comes in powdered form: Mix with water and then work fast; once activated, gypsum plaster typically needs to be applied in 35 to 40 minutes. (Stop midway and you get weaknesses known as “cold joints” and have to start over.) It’s also a bit less expensive than lime plaster and requires fewer coats. And it can be tinted to great effect.
X-Kalibur is a product from National Gypsum; another big supplier is USG (United States Gypsum).
The difference between colored gypsum plaster and Venetian plaster (see below)? Gypsum is matte-finished and single-hued. Venetian plaster can be polished, and the many layers required create more depth and nuanced shades of color.
Venetian Plaster
When pigment is added to aged slaked lime plaster, it’s known as Venetian plaster (not to be confused with any paints that use that name). Sprinkle in marble dust and you get a high level of polish and sheen.
Tadelakt
An age-old and highly durable Moroccan finish, tadelakt is composed of lime plaster and black soap made from olives. When the ingredients are combined, a chemical reaction between the two creates a waterproof membrane, making tadelakt walls the most suitable of all plasters for use in showers and baths and even as sinks and tubs—it’s synonymous with Moroccan hammans. Read all about it in our Remodeling 101 post.
“It’s completely waterproof—you just clean it with Marseilles soap,” says Herzig. “Because it’s so durable, I didn’t have to add a backsplash, which gives the room a clean look.” Photograph by Laure Joliet.
Neo Plaster
A lot of companies are coming up with their own easy-to-apply plaster wall finishes. These often contain acrylics and other ingredients that speed the process and don’t require as many coats.
Curious about limewash paint? Read about the mineral-based, chalky wall finish in:
Frequently asked questions
What is modern plaster?
Modern plaster refers to contemporary plastering techniques and materials used to create smooth, durable, and visually appealing wall finishes. It includes various types of plasters, such as clay plaster, slaked lime plaster, Venetian plaster, and other eco-friendly alternatives.
What are the advantages of using clay plaster?
Clay plaster offers several advantages. It is a natural and breathable material that regulates humidity and helps maintain indoor air quality. Clay plaster is also mold-resistant, fire-resistant, and has excellent thermal insulation properties. It creates a warm and organic aesthetic, and its application is relatively easy and forgiving.
What is slaked lime plaster, and what are its benefits?
Slaked lime plaster, also known as lime putty plaster, is made from slaked lime and sand. It is a traditional and durable plastering material with a rich history. Slaked lime plaster has excellent breathability, which allows moisture to evaporate, making it ideal for older buildings with solid walls. It also possesses natural antibacterial properties and offers a unique matte finish.
What is Venetian plaster, and why is it popular?
Venetian plaster is a decorative plastering technique that originated in Venice, Italy. It involves applying multiple layers of plaster and burnishing them to create a smooth, polished, and marble-like finish. Venetian plaster has gained popularity due to its luxurious appearance, depth, and subtle variations in color and texture. It can add elegance and sophistication to interior spaces.
Can modern plaster be used in both residential and commercial spaces?
Yes, modern plaster can be used in both residential and commercial spaces. It is a versatile material that can be applied to various surfaces, including walls, ceilings, and even furniture. Modern plaster is suitable for a range of interior design styles, from contemporary and minimalist to rustic and traditional.
Is it possible to achieve different textures and finishes with modern plaster?
Yes, modern plaster allows for a wide range of textures and finishes. Depending on the plastering technique and tools used, you can achieve different effects, from smooth and polished finishes to textured and rustic appearances. With the right application and techniques, modern plaster can be customized to match your desired aesthetic.
Are modern plaster walls durable?
Yes, modern plaster walls can be highly durable when properly applied and maintained. Clay plaster, slaked lime plaster, and Venetian plaster are known for their long-lasting properties. However, it's important to note that proper surface preparation, appropriate application techniques, and regular maintenance are key factors in ensuring the durability of plaster walls.
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