In today’s interiors, there’s a growing desire for spaces that feel calm, natural and authentic – places that prioritise texture, craftsmanship and subtle beauty over shiny perfection. That’s where Wabi-Sabi comes in. Rooted in Japanese philosophy, it’s a design approach that embraces imperfection, impermanence and the quiet elegance of natural materials.
Tadelakt, a traditional Moroccan lime plaster, reflects many of the same values. With its soft, hand-finished texture and natural variation, it’s a material that’s as much about feeling as it is about finish. Together, Wabi-Sabi and Tadelakt offer a way of designing spaces that are grounded, timeless and quietly luxurious.
Wabi-Sabi: A Way of Thinking
Wabi-Sabi isn’t about following a trend; it’s about shifting your perspective. In design, it’s the appreciation of things that are slightly irregular, aged or understated. Think of a weathered wooden beam, a handmade ceramic bowl with a tiny flaw or a linen sofa that softens over time. These are not imperfections to be hidden; they’re what give a space character.
Rather than obsessing over symmetry or pristine finishes, Wabi-Sabi interiors feel honest and pared-back. Surfaces are tactile and natural. Colours are muted and earthy. And spaces are left open and uncluttered so that materials – not things – become the focus.
Tadelakt: A Finish with Natural Soul
Tadelakt is a lime plaster with ancient origins, traditionally used in Moroccan hammams and palaces. What sets it apart is its texture — smooth but gently undulating, with a depth of tone that changes in different light. It’s polished using olive soap and a stone, creating a water-resistant surface that’s both practical and beautiful.
But Tadelakt is more than just a finish. It’s a material that reveals its story over time. No two walls are the same, and that’s part of the appeal. You might notice a subtle mark from the artisan’s hand, a variation in colour or a sheen that grows richer with age. Rather than hiding the hand of the maker, it celebrates it.
Where Tadelakt and Wabi-Sabi Meet
Although Tadelakt and Wabi-Sabi come from different cultural traditions, they share a deep connection. Both value authenticity. Both prioritise natural materials. And both invite us to look beyond the flawless in favour of something more meaningful.
In a Tadelakt wall, the movement of the lime, the layering of pigment, and the trace of the trowel all add up to a surface that feels alive. It’s not uniform, and that’s exactly why it fits so seamlessly into a Wabi-Sabi interior.
Tadelakt’s ability to evolve with time is another key connection. As it settles into a space, it develops a soft, organic patina – similar to aged timber or worn stone. Rather than fading, it matures. And in Wabi-Sabi design, this sense of natural ageing is seen not as a flaw but as a form of quiet enrichment.
Tadelakt in Minimalist, Organic Interiors
Tadelakt is particularly well suited to modern minimalist spaces — not the cold, clinical kind, but the warm and organic kind. It adds depth without noise. It softens without fussy detail. Whether used on an entire bathroom wall, a fireplace surround or a curved niche, it brings gentle texture to clean-lined spaces.
The beauty of Tadelakt is in how it catches light, subtly shifting throughout the day. In a home that’s styled with raw wood, linen textiles, stone flooring or handmade ceramics, it fits effortlessly — forming a visual link between materials that share the same grounding presence.
Designing a Wabi-Sabi Space with Tadelakt
Bringing Tadelakt into your home doesn’t require a full-scale renovation. It’s about thoughtful, well-placed choices. A Tadelakt feature wall in a hallway or living area can set the tone for a space that feels calm and connected. In bathrooms and wet areas, it’s not only beautiful but functional, offering a seamless, moisture-resistant finish that feels soft to the touch.
Colour is key. Choose earthy shades — sand, clay, warm greys — that work with the natural grain of the material. Avoid over-styling. Let the texture speak for itself, especially when paired with simple lighting and a few well-chosen materials. The goal is to create a sense of ease and honesty — a space that feels lived in, not staged.
Tadelakt: Craftsmanship You Can See and Feel
As the UK’s original Tadelakt specialists, we’re proud to bring this ancient technique into contemporary interiors with care, precision and a deep respect for the material. Every application is done by hand, with a focus on creating surfaces that feel as good as they look.
Whether it’s a bespoke bathroom, a curved wall in a modern extension or a feature finish in a commercial space, our team works closely with clients to create something truly individual. Because Tadelakt isn’t about templates — it’s about working with the material, the architecture and the light to create something that lasts.
Our work can be seen all around the world, from London to Dubai. And while each project is different, the result is always the same: a finish that embraces texture, imperfection and character.
Get in touch to bring character to your home.