Fresco finishes are beautiful and easy to live with. Fresco paint finishes lend subtle interest and create mood and also provide a perfect backdrop for paintings, mirrors, and other accessories in hallways, on staircases, and in living rooms.

True fresco is the art of painting onto wet plaster. Fresco, or affresco, is derived from the Italian adjective fresco meaning “fresh”. The technique has been around for centuries. It survives in prehistoric cave paintings, and was rediscovered in the classical antique murals at Pompeii. Fresco painting reached its height as an art form during the Italian Renaissance.

In vernacular architecture, fresco finishes took the form of slaked lime stucco coloured with pigment. These lime washes not only protected stone and brick surfaces but also provided a humble form of decoration. Today, these finishes can imbue interiors the patina of age and old world charm.

Faux fresco finishes: beautiful and easy to live with

As specialist decorators, we use faux fresco finishes to recreate the appearance of aged frescos and the soft, romantic look of lime stucco walls. See our Painted Finishes and Interiors sections for more specialist paint finishes, including wood graining, faux plaster effects, textured paint finishes and more.

About Us

Nicola Thwaites Specialist Decorating is based in London and the UK and works with interior designers, architects, and  private clients.

Feel free to contact us to discuss  your specialist decorating project.