Creative Wall Finishes That Wow: “Why Designers Are Choosing Venetian Plaster Over Paint”

Written By jude tsouris

A Beautiful Shift in Interior Design Thinking

If you’re someone who gets excited about texture, tone, and transforming everyday spaces into something extraordinary — you’re not alone. Interior designers across the UK are turning to Venetian plaster as their not-so-secret weapon for creating walls that truly wow.

In a world of flat-painted feature walls and predictable palettes, Venetian plaster offers something more: depth, character, and timeless sophistication. Whether you're styling a serene bedroom sanctuary or a bold gallery wall, this artisan finish is becoming a go-to for design lovers who want their spaces to feel alive.

What Makes Venetian Plaster So Special?

At its core, Venetian plaster is a natural material, made from lime and marble powders. But the magic is in the method — it’s applied by hand in thin layers and finished with techniques like burnishing or waxing, creating rich, tactile surfaces that catch the light beautifully.

Depending on the product and application, the result can be:

  • Sleek and mirror-like (hello, polished glamour)

  • Soft and cloudy like worn stone

  • Or even textured and earthy, perfect for rustic-modern spaces

Every wall becomes a one-off piece. No two are ever quite the same — which is music to the ears of anyone who values creativity and originality in their interiors.

A Designer’s Dream: Versatility Meets Visual Impact

Unlike paint, which is essentially colour with a flat or matte finish, Venetian plaster is multi-dimensional. It can be:

  • Layered subtly to complement minimalist schemes

  • Or pushed to the bold side with rich colour pigments, metallic touches, or distressed finishes

Designers are using it to:

  • Create focal points in open-plan homes

  • Add warmth to bathrooms or entryways

  • Soften modern lines in contemporary renovations

  • Or simply elevate a bedroom feature wall with quiet luxury

And because many modern formulations are durable and wipeable, it’s practical too — no constant touch-ups or fading like you might get with standard emulsion paints.

Artisan & Eco-Friendly

Venetian plaster isn’t just beautiful — it’s breathable, non-toxic, and naturally mould-resistant thanks to the high pH of lime. Many designers are opting for it in bathrooms or kitchens for this very reason.

Plus, if sustainability is part of your design ethos, you'll love that lime plasters are low VOC, long-lasting, and free of harsh chemicals.

Inspiration Over Imitation

Paint can mimic the colour of stone. Venetian plaster feels like stone. It has the ability to evoke mood, movement, and timelessness in ways that flat colour simply can’t.

For interior design enthusiasts, it’s a tactile, expressive material that reflects both natural light and personal style. And for clients? It adds emotional and visual value to a space — the kind of "wow" that doesn’t need words.

Want to See It in Action?

At Infinity Finishes, we create bespoke Venetian plaster surfaces tailored to each space and vision — from soft and subtle to rich, dramatic textures.

If you're dreaming up a space and wondering how to bring a fresh creative touch to your walls, Venetian plaster might just be the finish you didn’t know you needed.

Thinking of something specific? Reach out — Jude’s artistry and knowledge of materials can help bring your design vision to life.

jude tsouris