Make or Break

In the world of interior design, choosing the right finish for walls is crucial to creating the desired ambiance. Afterall, walls form one of the largest surface areas in your home. It’ll straightaway make or break the design if the colour or finish is off. 

While traditional wallpapers have long been popular, a new contender is emerging - limewash paint. So, what exactly is limewash paint, and why are designers increasingly drawn to it as an alternative to standard wallpaper?

Limewash is Ancient

A fresco from the ancient city of Pompeii during 1st Century AD painted on limewash-covered wall (Image source: Pinterest)

Limewash paint is a unique type of paint that has been used for centuries. It is created by mixing slaked lime with water and natural pigments, resulting in a breathable, eco-friendly finish. Designers are turning to limewash paint for its ability to create a soft, matte finish that exudes a sense of timelessness and elegance.

So, why choose limewash paint over wallpaper? Let's explore its benefits:

•    Breathability: Limewash paint allows walls to breathe by enabling moisture to evaporate rather than trapping it. This feature helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew and promotes a healthier indoor environment. Extremely useful in tropical Singapore.

•    Eco-friendliness: Limewash paint is made from natural materials, making it a sustainable choice. It produces little to no VOCs (volatile organic compounds), reducing indoor air pollution and contributing to a greener lifestyle.

•    Aesthetic Appeal: Limewash paint creates a unique textured and natural appearance on walls, adding depth and character to any space. Its charming aesthetic cannot be replicated by standard paints, making it a favourite among designers.

•    Long-lasting: When properly maintained, limewash paint can age beautifully, developing a natural patina over time that enhances its aesthetic value. This characteristic adds a touch of elegance to any interior.

On the other hand, traditional wallpapers have their own set of advantages. Let's compare limewash paint and wallpaper side by side:

Patina explained: Everything You Wanted To Know About Limewash

Your Consideration

When deciding between limewash paint and wallpaper, consider the following 5 scenarios:

1.    Rustic and Vintage Aesthetics: 

Limewashed the stone walls (Image Source: House Beautiful)

Limewash paint is perfect for spaces that require a rustic or vintage look, such as traditional homes, country cottages, or historical buildings.

2.    Breathability: opt for limewash paint in rooms with high humidity levels, like bathrooms and kitchens, where breathability is crucial. We would highly recommend this if your home were situated near the seaside.

3.    Sustainable and Eco-friendly Spaces: Choose limewash paint for eco-conscious projects aiming for sustainable and environmentally friendly finishes.

4.    Modern and Contemporary Styles:

Wallpaper offers a broader range of design options, making it ideal for modern, contemporary, or eclectic interiors where bold patterns and textures are desired.

5.    Temporary or Changeable Solutions:

Wallpaper allows for easy updates and changes without the need for repainting the entire room, making it a versatile option for those who crave variety.

And the Winner is?

While wallpaper has been a staple in interior design for centuries (yes wallpaper is equally old), limewash paint is re-capturing the attention of designers and homeowners as a captivating alternative, especially since more and more people are exploring eco options. Its breathability, eco-friendliness, unique texture, and timeless charm make it an appealing choice. Consider the aesthetic requirements, moisture levels of your home, and sustainability goals of your project to determine whether limewash paint or wallpaper is the best fit. Both options offer versatility and charm, catering to different design preferences and scenarios but certain design styles may not work well with Limewash paint.

Posted on 12th November 2023

Written by Astley Ng – the designerd.

SIXIDES Editorial Team