Marble polished plaster · Chippenham project

Marble Polished Plaster with Liquid Metal Veins

A bespoke, hand burnished marble polished plaster with freehand metallic veins, applied across a grand entrance hall in a private home in Chippenham, Wiltshire.

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Chippenham, Wiltshire
High gloss with metal veins
Hand drawn, every wall unique
10 days on site

LocationChippenham, UKPrivate residence

SpaceGrand entrance hallMulti storey foyer and staircase

FinishMarble polished plasterHigh gloss with metal veins

StyleContemporary luxuryWarm white base

What is marble polished plaster with liquid metal veins?

In short, it is a lime based polished plaster, burnished by hand to a glassy shine, with fine metallic veins drawn freehand through the surface. As a result, the wall looks and feels like carved natural marble, yet it flows seamlessly around corners, arches and staircases where real stone would be impractical.

The project

A Marble Polished Plaster Entrance Hall in Chippenham

To begin with, this project shows one of our most requested finishes. In this case, we applied it seamlessly across a grand, multi storey entrance hall in a private home in Chippenham. As a result, the space gained a visual depth that no paint or wallpaper can match.

First, we applied the polished plaster base in several hand burnished layers to create a luminous, glassy surface. Then, we drew fine veins of custom liquid metal pigment freehand through the plaster. Because we draw each line by hand, every wall is unique. In the end, the finish flows like natural marble around corners, doorways and under the double staircase.

Finished marble polished plaster beneath the staircase with metallic veins

Gallery

Project Gallery

Below, you can see the warm white base, the metallic veins and the burnished sheen up close.

Marble polished plaster entrance hall in Chippenham, full view

Close up of liquid metal veins running across the polished wall

Burnished marble polished plaster behind the oak staircase

Materials and finish

What Goes Into This Marble Polished Plaster

We choose every layer for quality, longevity and visual impact. So, here is how we build up the finish.

Polished plaster baseFirst, lime based polished plaster in several hand burnished coats gives a dense, smooth surface like classic Italian stucco.

Liquid metal veinsNext, we draw organic veins of metallic pigment through the plaster. As a result, the wall gains a striking natural marble effect.

Texture and depthThanks to the layering, the finish has real depth. Furthermore, it reflects light differently from every angle.

DurabilityIn addition, a protective wax seal helps it resist staining and everyday wear. Therefore, it suits busy hallways and staircases.

Quality controlFinally, we check every surface under raking light before completion for consistent sheen, texture and detail.

Prefer classic Venetian plaster?Alternatively, explore our hand applied Venetian plaster finishes for homes and businesses.Explore →

Our process

How We Apply Marble Polished Plaster in Five Stages

In short, our five stage process gives a flawless, long lasting finish. Above all, the vein stage needs real skill and speed.

Surface preparation
First, we inspect, repair and prime the walls for a level base. We also check moisture levels and then apply a bonding coat.
First plaster layer
Next, we apply the base coat by hand with a steel trowel, in small sections, to build an even foundation.
Vein application
Then, while the plaster is still workable, we draw liquid metal pigment freehand through the surface to create the marble pattern.
Burnishing and polishing
Once dry, we burnish the surface with a steel trowel and polish it to a high gloss, which raises a marble like brilliance.
Wax and seal
Lastly, we apply a protective wax in thin coats and buff it. As a result, the wax seals the surface, deepens the colour and protects it for the long term.

Project details
Location	Chippenham private residence, Wiltshire
Room	Principal grand foyer and entrance hall
Finish	Marble polished plaster with liquid metal veins
Palette	Warm white base with custom metallic veins
Application	Multi layer, hand burnished and sealed
Duration	10 days on site

Veined polished plaster wall beside an antique console table

The craft

The Craft Behind the Vein

Of course, what makes this finish special is not just the material, but the hand that applies it. Indeed, the veining stage is the most demanding part of the process. Because they work on wet plaster, our applicators have only minutes to draw each vein before the surface begins to set.

For this reason, we mix the metallic pigments, whether copper, antique gold or silver, to a precise consistency and draw them in long, confident strokes. Similarly, just like real marble, each vein differs in width, angle and branching. After burnishing, the veins lock into the plaster and catch the light in a way no printed or painted finish can.

Light catching the metallic veins on the polished wall

Plaster vs stone

Why Choose Marble Polished Plaster Over Real Marble?

Lighter and simplerTo begin with, it gives the look of marble without the structural weight of stone slabs.

Fits any shapeAlso, unlike stone, it wraps curved walls, arches and irregular surfaces.

BreathableMoreover, because it is lime based, it breathes, which suits older buildings.

Truly uniqueSince we draw every vein by hand, no two walls are ever the same.

FAQ

Marble Polished Plaster FAQs

What is marble polished plaster?

Marble polished plaster is a hand applied, lime based wall finish that recreates the look of polished marble. It is burnished to a high gloss and, as on this project, it can include freehand liquid metal veins for an authentic marble effect.

How much does marble polished plaster cost in the UK?

Marble polished plaster typically costs between £80 and £180 per square metre in the UK, depending on the area, design complexity and location. For a free, no obligation quote in Bristol, Bath, Cheltenham or the wider South West, simply contact us.

How long does marble polished plaster take to apply?

Generally, a standard feature wall takes two to three days on site, including preparation, plastering, vein work, burnishing and sealing. By contrast, larger spaces take longer; this Chippenham entrance hall took 10 days. Either way, we give you a full timeline before work begins.

Is marble polished plaster durable?

Yes. Once sealed with a protective wax, it resists staining and everyday wear, so it suits busy hallways and staircases. In addition, it is easy to look after with occasional re waxing.

Can marble polished plaster be used in a bathroom?

Yes, as a sealed feature wall away from direct water it is a popular choice for luxury bathrooms. However, for showers and walls in direct contact with water, we normally recommend a waterproof system such as Valpaint E-VOLUTION or I-Beton Plus.

Is marble polished plaster the same as Venetian plaster?

In fact, they are closely related. Venetian plaster is the broader term for lime based polished plaster from Italy, whereas marble polished plaster refers to finishes designed to copy natural marble, often with veining. Even so, both are hand applied and burnished to a high gloss.

Can the liquid metal veins be done in any colour?

Yes. For example, we offer copper, antique gold, bright gold, silver, rose gold and bronze, as well as bespoke blends. Then, during the design consultation, we choose the vein colour to suit the plaster base and your interior.

How do I maintain marble polished plaster?

Fortunately, maintenance is minimal. Simply wipe it with a soft, slightly damp cloth and avoid abrasive cleaners. Besides that, we recommend re waxing every three to five years, and we provide aftercare notes for every project.

Do you apply polished plaster outside Bristol?

Yes. In fact, we regularly work in Bristol, Bath, Cheltenham, Chippenham, Gloucestershire, the Cotswolds and throughout the South West. We also take on selected projects in London and across the UK.

Free consultation

Interested in Marble Polished Plaster for Your Home?

Every year, we work with private clients, interior designers and developers across Bristol, Bath, Cheltenham, Chippenham, Gloucestershire and the South West. Whether you have a clear vision or are just exploring, we are here to help.

Share your brief
To start, send the form, call, or WhatsApp us photos of the space.
Samples and design
Then, we choose the base tone and vein colour with you, using samples.
Visit and quote
Finally, we visit, check the walls and send a clear quote and timeline.

Call 07821 658650 (Mon to Fri 8am to 6pm, Sat 9am to 12pm) or email shop@antichidecori.co.uk.