Sure enough, we have all seen and wondered how commercial establishments think of such interesting interiors. We visit our preferred stores and take a look at all the details. A few of us even daydream of upgrading our homes to keep up with the times.
Then you see their walls. Some have highly sleek ones, while others have that textured industrial look. The walls bind all interior design elements to develop splendid concepts. How are these fantastic wall finishings achieved? If you are still wondering, you are looking at polished plaster.
A Brief History
According to archeological finds, plastered walls date back to 9000 BC. These were usually made with limestone, gypsum, clay, and unusual ingredients such as animal blood, manure, or milk. It is even believed that ancient Egyptians might have known that this technique protected against mold and mildew when they used it in their burial chambers.
The Greeks and the Romans then discovered more sophisticated methods to enhance their plasters utilizing marble dust and other pozzolanic materials. The Renaissance brought the birth of Venetian plaster. The artisans mastered the application of plaster and developed various textures and pigments.
Today, what was once referred to as Venetian plaster, stucco, or gypsum plaster has gone through much research and development. Polished plaster, the more common term we call it today, is more durable and improved and does not include crazy animal parts or by-products.
How is polished plaster made?
Making polished plaster involves cooking limestone in kilns at high temperatures. It is then mixed with water and left to mature or age. The resulting hydrated lime putty is then combined with other ingredients such as marble dust or quartz to produce a range of plasters.
After applying the hydrated lime plaster mix to a surface, science does its job and lets air through carbonation dry or cure the putty, turning it solid once again. Marble plaster suppliers in London can tell you more.
The Masterful Artisans
It is known that true masters of polished plaster form a very small community. They have studied the product well, and with a trowel, they can skillfully manipulate it. They are trained not just to mix and apply but likewise to develop their creative eye and steady hands.
Because of this, polished plaster can be considered first-class. The craftsmanship of these people is renowned as plastering is labor-extensive, and this task requires endless imagination. In each work, you will be able to see the signature strokes of an artist.
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Popular Plaster Styles
If you are seeking to design your walls, galleries of various textures can be seen online. You can look up designs such as travertine, Marmorino, or metallic Venetian plaster. You can work with the experts to let them understand what character or personality you desire your walls to have.
If you seek uniqueness, you can even consider stenciling and banding. These involve the client and the artisan working carefully together. This allows complete understanding on both sides of the constraints and all the possibilities concerning shapes, texture, and color.
Where does polished plaster belong?
High-end business areas such as cosmopolitan dining establishments, shops, beauty parlors, and offices have taken advantage of the sophistication of this finishing. Residences are now being made with this finishing as it also possesses antibacterial qualities. The versatility of polished plaster means you can utilize them in any area: cooking areas, hallways, shower rooms, and swimming pools.
If you search for long-lasting and resilient finishing, the exquisite polished plaster finish might belong on your walls.