Venetian Plaster Services

Timeless, Handcrafted Wall Finishes That Transform Your Space

Venetian Plaster is a wall and ceiling finish made of thin, decorative plaster applied in multiple layers, which are then troweled to a high-gloss or matte finish. Mike then burnishes them to create a rich, earthy, soft look that creates an elegant finish, giving the appearance of depth and movement reminiscent of marble and stone.

Homeowners through the Hudson Valley choose venetian plaster because it adds interests to rooms with as much flexibility as paint in terms of application and maintenance. Perfection guaranteed!

Home: About

What Is Venetian Plaster?

Venetian plaster is a decorative lime-based wall finish made from slaked lime and finely ground marble dust. It is applied by hand in multiple thin layers and burnished to the desired sheen, ranging from soft matte to polished marble-like finishes. As it cures, the lime calcifies and hardens into a durable, stone-like surface.

Unlike paint, which simply coats drywall, Venetian plaster bonds with the wall, strengthening over time and developing a natural patina that adds depth and subtle movement to interior surfaces.

This finish is valued for its timeless appearance, low toxicity, and compatibility with historic or modern interiors, making it a versatile option for walls, ceilings, and feature elements in residential and commercial spaces alike.

Four Benefits of Venetian Plaster in Hudson Valley Homes

Long-Lasting Durability

Hardens as it cures, resists cracking, and can last for generations when properly applied.

Depth & Natural Movement

Subtle tonal variation catches light throughout the day, creating warmth and dimension.

Breathable & Mold-Resistant

Venetian plaster regulates moisture and naturally resists mold — ideal for Hudson Valley’s seasonal climate.

Eco-Friendly & VOC-Free

Made from natural materials with zero VOCs, supporting healthier indoor air quality.

Home: Services

Common Applications

Commercial Interiors

Elevate restaurants, hotels, offices, and retail spaces.

Feature Walls & Fireplaces

Create striking focal points with a naturally heat-resistant finish.

Living Rooms, Bedrooms, Bathrooms

Add warmth, sophistication, and architectural depth.

Home: Testimonials

WHAT PEOPLE SAY

“Mike is a passionate artist. His decorative plastering is among the best I have seen, and as an interior designer, I have seen quite a bit. He is truly a perfectionist, concerned with the movement and finish of the plaster, and meticulous in its application. His goal is to create the best product he possibly can, and is a student as much as he is a master researching new products like sealants and new techniques. It was a wonder to watch him work. As a human being, he is a pleasure; kind and thoughtful, utterly trustworthy, honest. attentive, and listens to your thoughts and feelings on what you are looking for on the project. He will not be content until you, as a client, is happy. I can’t wait to work with him again on our next fireplace. We are so blessed to have been referred to him! Hire him, and you will understand why.”

-Nanci Grant & Randall Ment

Venetian Plaster Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Venetian plaster?

Venetian plaster is a natural lime and marble finish applied by hand in thin layers. When it dries, it turns back into stone on your wall. Paint sits on top of the wall. Joint compound patches the wall. Venetian plaster becomes the wall. Lime makes the finish breathable, harder over time, mold-resistant, and zero VOC. Burnishing compresses the plaster and brings out movement and natural glow.

What finishes do you offer with Venetian plaster?

Soft matte: Natural, calm, stone-like. Best for bedrooms, living rooms, older homes, and low-light spaces. High gloss: Reflective, dramatic, marble-like. Best for feature walls, powder rooms, fireplaces, and modern homes. More light favors gloss. Less light favors matte. Light colors feel airy. Dark colors feel bold.

Can Venetian plaster be used in bathrooms, kitchens, or humid areas?

Yes. Venetian plaster hardens over time, resists scratches, doesn’t peel, is mold-resistant, and handles humidity well when sealed. It works great in bathrooms. Showers require Tadelakt. Maintenance is simple: wipe with a damp cloth and avoid harsh cleaners. Touch-ups are easy.

How do you prepare walls before applying Venetian plaster?

Prep is everything. I assess flatness, cracks, old repairs, texture, bonding issues, movement, moisture, and substrate compatibility. New builds need smoothing and mineral primer. Historic homes require evaluation of original plaster stability, delamination, lime compatibility, structural movement, and moisture history. My European restoration training applies here. Skipping prep leads to cracks, delamination, and uneven sheen.

How long does the Venetian plaster process take?

Accent wall: 1.5–2.5 days Single room: 3–5 days Large room: 5–7 days Multi-room: 1–2 weeks Full home: 2–4+ weeks Timing depends on drying time, temperature, humidity, wall condition, complexity, and finish type.

Is Venetian plaster appropriate for historic homes or older buildings?

Yes. Lime plaster is ideal for historic homes. I assess original plaster, substrate stability, delamination, moisture, lime compatibility, movement, and old repairs. My European restoration training ensures proper stabilization and prep.

Request a Venetian Plaster Estimate

Every project begins with a conversation. I’ll review your space, discuss finish options, and provide a clear, detailed estimate.

Serving Rhinebeck, Beacon, Hudson, Millbrook, Woodstock, Columbia County, the Catskills, Hudson Valley, and beyond.