Initially introduced and used in Venice, Italy, the city that influenced its name, Venetian plaster was once a reserve for the wealthy. The luxurious look and feel of this natural yet elegant wall finish was like nothing else that had been seen before on walls. Over time, as often can be the case with interior design, Venetian plaster slowly declined in popularity as newer, more contemporary trends started to take over.
More recently, Venetian plaster has experienced a resurgence, bringing about a new appreciation for art and becoming increasingly more popular over conventional, flat paint walls. It is, in fact, becoming a hallmark look not just in homes, but in upmarket commercial spaces like hotels, resorts and spas as well.
What Is Venetian Plaster?
Venetian plaster is a type of plaster, derived from mixing plaster with either marble or limestone dust. This new mixture can make it possible to create details like designs, texture and a richness of color tones that cannot be compared to that of standard flat paint. The plaster is applied to walls in thin layers and then polished to bring out its sheen. The subtle glimmer can create the illusion of light coming from the wall which is very unique and aesthetically elevating for your space.
A variety of finishes can be created with Venetian plaster that mimics that of natural stone, travertine or an opulent pearlescent finish among others.
Advantages of Venetian Plaster
In addition to aesthetics, Venetian plaster offers numerous benefits, including:
Durability
Venetian plaster can stand up to scuffs and different types of impact. Additionally, it’s less vulnerable to cracking compared to cement, and known to strengthen the wall.
Inflammable
Venetian plaster walls still stand in the excavated Pompeii Ruins of southeast Italy. In 79 A.D., this area was hit by the volcano Vesuvius when it erupted and covered the city with fine ash. Buried within the city and discovered intact, were walls finished with Venetian plaster. This speaks for its stalwart inflammability.
Prevents mold and mildew
Thanks to the lime, which has a naturally high pH, Venetian plaster prevents mold and mildew. A natural fungicide, this classic wall covering is ideal for wet rooms in your home like bathrooms and kitchens where these two types of fungi are likely to develop.
Regulates Humidity
Venetian plaster is breathable, which counteracts heat and humidity in your home by allowing air to pass through. It also dries fast which minimizes mildew development.
Eco-Friendly
Venetian plaster is natural and does not emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It can also absorb carbon dioxide, helping to clean the air inside your home.
Range of Options
Venetian plaster offers a versatile and broad range of finish options that can be customized for every room in your home.
Easy to Maintain
Finally, Venetian plaster is very easy to maintain. It does not need scrubbing. Simply wipe it down with a dry soft cloth. Clean periodically with a soft cloth dipped in water and mild detergent to help ensure the rich color tones and sheen continue to shine through.
Typically, walls finished with Venetian plaster have a seal made of wax, making it impermeable to water. This layer also repels dirt, making cleaning the wall easy. If a wall doesn’t have a wax seal, it’s best to start cleaning in a test corner. This should be done using a damp cloth rather than soaking wet, and followed with another soft cloth to dry.
Conclusion
DecorFin Decorative Wall Finishes located in New York City has been a big part of this recent revival. A master of this elegant finish with over 30 years home renovation experience, Eric Klein is the premier choice for elegant walls.
DecorFin has earned the reputation of being the go-to master of Venetian plaster. A visit to the New York showroom or a look through the online portfolio makes it clear why. Get in touch for a free in-home consultation on an outstanding wall finish that elevates and adds texture to your space with a look and feel you will love.
