Just a few years ago, the choice of wall finish usually came down to paint or wallpaper. Today, there are far more possibilities. Parametra decorative plasters make it possible to create surfaces inspired by concrete, marble, stone, travertine and materials with pearlescent or metallic finishes. As a result, a wall can stop being merely a background and become a strong element of the entire design.
One wall can transform an entire room
Decorative plasters do not have to be used on every wall. In many cases, a much better effect is achieved by finishing just one surface this way—for example, the wall behind the television, sofa, bed or table.
Such a wall can serve a decorative function while also defining a specific zone within the interior. The remaining surfaces can be kept in a neutral color, preventing the design from appearing excessively heavy.
This solution works both in apartments and in larger commercial interiors, such as restaurants, hotels, offices and service premises.
Concrete for a loft, marble for an elegant interior
One reason for the growing popularity of decorative plasters is the ability to achieve a wide variety of effects.
In modern and industrial interiors, surfaces resembling concrete are often chosen. They pair well with wood, glass, metal and simple furniture.
In more elegant designs, finishes inspired by marble or Venetian plaster can be used. Meanwhile, surfaces imitating natural stone or travertine may suit interiors maintained in a warmer, more natural style.
Metallic and pearlescent coatings are a separate category. Their appearance can change depending on the lighting and viewing angle.
Light is extremely important
When choosing decorative surfaces, one should not rely solely on a product photograph or a small sample viewed in a store.
The same plaster can look different in daylight, under warm evening lighting and in a room with large glazed surfaces.
A pronounced texture also creates shadows that emphasize the wall’s structure. Smooth or glossy surfaces reflect more light and can give the impression of greater depth.
Therefore, before finishing a larger surface, it is worth checking the chosen effect directly in the specific interior.
Not every plaster is suitable for every location
When choosing a material, its appearance is not the only important factor.
Individual products have different properties and intended uses. One solution may be needed in a living room, another in a space exposed to higher humidity and yet another on an exterior facade.
Parametra offers both interior materials and solutions intended for exterior applications. Individual products differ in their type of finish, texture and application method.
Before purchasing, it is therefore necessary to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific material.
Wall preparation is crucial
The final effect depends not only on the product itself. The substrate and the method of application are also highly important.
The wall should be properly prepared and, depending on the system, may need to be leveled, cleaned and primed.
With decorative plasters, the application technique is also important. The characteristic pattern is often created by hand while working with a trowel or another tool. The final texture depends on the applicator’s movements, the thickness of the layer and the way it is finished.
Consequently, even two interiors finished with the same material may look slightly different.
It is worth starting with a sample
Before deciding to finish an entire wall, it is a good idea to prepare a sample.
It makes it possible to assess the actual color and texture, as well as how the material behaves under specific lighting. This is particularly important for metallic, pearlescent, marble-effect and highly textured finishes.
On its website, Parametra also provides information about a showroom in Krakow where material samples are presented. The company sells and applies decorative plasters, microcement and paints.
An alternative to traditional painting
Decorative plasters do not have to replace paint throughout the entire apartment. They most often work best as a complement to a traditional finish.
One carefully finished wall can give an interior character and create the impression of a more deliberate design.
When choosing, however, it is worth considering not only the appearance, but also the material’s intended use, the conditions in the given room and the quality of workmanship. With decorative surfaces, these factors largely determine the final effect.