Should you try Tadelakt?

There are so many options for your walls beyond the traditional go-to of paint. Truth is, there always has been. But right now lime plaster and all of its variations are having a moment, and with good reason. 

One of the questions I get asked most about in the Still Studio is the finish that I have used on the walls. When seen in photos it’s clear that I haven’t used paint throughout. Instead, there’s a slightly cloudy finish that’s hard to pinpoint. The finish that I used was Tadelakt, which is a decorative lime plaster with aggregates of marble, granite or glass added. The finish goes back to 11th-century Marrakesh, where it was used in the construction of riads. The result is a cloudy-like appearance that catches and reflects light in a perfectly imperfect way. It’s smooth to the touch, too.

There are also other plaster finishes that you can consider, including Italian Marmarino, Venetian plaster, Spanish plaster, traditional render and white set. The list is almost endless. Not to mention gypsum plaster, cement plaster and microcement.

Tadelakt is one of the more expensive options for your walls, but has many benefits. It is a natural material that is mould and mildew resistant, so it’s great if you want to create a healthy home. It doesn’t emit any VOCs, which are often found in paints. But one of its greatest selling points is its beautiful timeless finish.

On the flip side, it is an expensive option and must be done by a professional. You want to ensure that you have chosen all of your fixtures and fittings ahead of time because any repairs or marks will need to be repaired by a professional. Unlike paint, you can’t just patch it up yourself.

However, you can opt to use the finish on small surfaces, such as a single wall or even a vanity if you want to create a feature in a small area. It can be used to cover a bath tub too!

Tadelakt can be used in wet areas, such as a shower, as it is waterproof. A great alternative to using tiles, which require regularly cleaning, especially the grout lines. It’s also water-repellent and mould/mildew-resistant.

It’s important to find a professional trades person who can apply Tadelakt in your home. Ensure you check references and, if possible, see the finish first hand too.

If your budget doesn’t extend to using Tadelakt there are many painted finishes that create a similar effect. The cloud-like appearance is definitely something worth considering for your home to give your interiors depth and interest.

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