Venetian plaster is a traditional Italian plastering technique that creates a smooth, polished, marble-like finish. It is highly decorative, incredibly durable and looks stunning in the right setting. But it requires a skilled specialist and comes at a premium price.
What is Venetian Plaster?
Venetian plaster (also known as polished plaster or marmorino) is made from slaked lime putty and marble dust. Multiple thin coats are applied and burnished with a steel trowel to create depth, translucency and a high-gloss or matte polished effect. No two applications look identical.
Venetian Plaster Costs
| Application | Cost per m² |
|---|---|
| Basic polished plaster | £80–£120 |
| Standard Venetian (2–3 coats) | £120–£180 |
| High-end marmorino | £180–£280+ |
Is Venetian Plaster DIY-Friendly?
No. Achieving a professional result requires years of practice. The technique involves applying extremely thin translucent layers, working at exactly the right time as each layer cures, and burnishing at precise moments. DIY attempts are almost always disappointing. Budget for a specialist.
Where Does Venetian Plaster Work Best?
Feature walls in living rooms, hallways, reception rooms and hotel lobbies are the most popular applications. It works well in wet rooms too, as lime plaster is naturally breathable and resistant to mould when properly applied. It is not ideal for high-impact areas like children’s bedrooms.
Maintenance and Lifespan
Properly applied Venetian plaster is extremely durable — the original technique has survived centuries in Italian palaces. It can be re-burnished if it loses its sheen and patched by a skilled plasterer if damaged. It should not be painted over.
Find a Venetian Plaster Specialist
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