Innovative Uses of Tadelakt Beyond Bathrooms: Fireplaces, Furniture and More

When most people think of tadelakt, they imagine the soft, sensuous curves of a Moroccan-style bathroom – shower walls gently glistening, hand-burnished lime plaster evoking ancient hammams. But this natural material, with its earthy tactility, is far more versatile than you might think. In fact, tadelakt is increasingly being used in living areas, kitchens and even as part of bespoke furniture design.

As the UK’s original tadelakt specialists, we’ve seen firsthand how this ancient technique is finding fresh expression in contemporary interiors. Whether you’re a homeowner planning a renovation or a designer searching for unique finishes, the appeal of tadelakt lies in its ability to bring warmth, texture and timelessness into everyday spaces.

Beyond the Bathroom: What Makes Tadelakt So Adaptable?

Tadelakt’s origins are deeply rooted in Moroccan architecture, where it was prized for its water resistance and longevity in steam-filled spaces. But the same qualities that make it perfect for hammams also make it beautifully suited for other parts of the home. It’s breathable, seamless and offers a rich depth of tone and texture that paint or tile simply can’t replicate.

Crucially, tadelakt is hand-applied and polished with olive soap, creating a surface that is not only water-repellent but softly reflective. The finish evolves over time, developing a patina that speaks of lived-in luxury. And because it can be moulded into almost any shape, the design possibilities extend far beyond the confines of a shower enclosure.

Fireplaces with Character

Few elements anchor a room quite like a fireplace. It draws the eye, invites people to gather and often sets the tone for the entire space. Tadelakt brings a sense of cohesion and subtle drama to fireplace surrounds, whether you prefer gentle curves or crisp, architectural lines.

Its natural heat resistance makes it a logical choice, but it’s the aesthetic that truly sets it apart. Imagine a fireplace in soft dove grey or rich ochre, the plaster gently catching the light, adding depth without shouting for attention. The seamless application avoids the hard edges of tile and the flatness of paint, creating a finish that feels organic and grounding.

In our experience, clients often come to us unsure of how to make their fireplace feel special, yet not over-designed. Tadelakt offers that sweet spot – crafted, but calm. Elegant, but inviting.

Furniture That Feels Bespoke

Another area where tadelakt has begun to shine is in furniture design. It’s ideal for pieces that benefit from a tactile, sculptural quality. We’ve worked with clients to create everything from dining tables and benches to bathroom vanities and kitchen islands.

Because tadelakt is applied by hand, it gives even simple forms a sense of individuality. A kitchen island finished in sandy tadelakt can soften a minimalist space, adding a touch of warmth and texture without disrupting the overall design. A pair of floating bedside shelves in blush-toned plaster might sound like a small detail, but in practice, it transforms the mood of a room.

These aren’t just surfaces – they’re touchpoints. They invite interaction and offer a quiet kind of luxury that feels deeply personal.

Creating Atmosphere in Living Spaces

Tadelakt also works beautifully on walls, especially where you want to introduce depth and softness without overwhelming the space. We’ve seen it used to stunning effect in media walls, arched alcoves and as a backdrop to artwork or open shelving. It can bring definition to a room without the need for bold colour or busy patterns.

For open-plan homes, tadelakt can be a brilliant way to create subtle zones. A living area finished in warm plaster contrasts gently with adjacent painted surfaces, helping to delineate spaces without harsh visual breaks. And because tadelakt develops character over time, it feels like it belongs – never forced or artificial.

Clients often tell us they want their homes to feel ‘settled’, to avoid trends that date quickly. In that sense, tadelakt is ideal. It carries a timelessness that works across styles, from rustic farmhouses to modernist city flats.

Made to Measure: Our Approach

No two tadelakt applications are the same. Every finish is developed in conversation with the space, the light, the colour palette and most importantly, the people who will live with it. Our team collaborates closely with clients, whether it’s a homeowner embarking on a personal renovation or a designer leading a high-end residential project.

We understand that choosing a finish like tadelakt is often about more than aesthetics – it’s about how a space feels, how it flows and how it holds up to daily life. That’s why we focus on delivering bespoke solutions that balance beauty with practicality. From curved hearths to sculpted furniture, we bring decades of experience to each project, ensuring the final result is both considered and completely unique.

A Material with Soul

Tadelakt is more than a surface finish. It’s a way of bringing soul into a space. If you’re searching for alternatives to predictable materials – if you want your home to feel handcrafted, harmonious and a little bit different – it may be just what you’re looking for.

Whether you’re envisioning a fireplace that sets the tone, a piece of furniture that anchors a room, or simply a wall that adds quiet character, tadelakt has a way of making even the most practical corners feel like part of a larger story.