Plain Work · Surface Guide

Which finish suits
your space?

A plain-language guide to choosing between Lime Paint, Lime Plaster, microcement, and liquid metal — before you call anyone.

"The wrong material chosen in haste costs more to correct than it did to apply."

First: Ask yourself these 3 questions

Question 1

Is this area wet or dry?

Wet areas (bathrooms, kitchen splash) eliminate many beautiful mineral options. Only microcement with proper sealing and waterproofing can go in wet zones. Lime Paint and Lime Plaster are strictly dry-area only.

Question 2

Do you have a budget for samples?

Lime Plaster and liquid metal are inherently variable — natural, hand-applied, and impossible to exactly replicate. Samples are mandatory. If you need a precise, uniform result, microcement is more predictable.

Question 3

Is it residential or commercial?

Commercial spaces have higher foot traffic, abrasion, and cleaning schedules. Microcement is more hardwearing. Lime Paint and plasters are better suited for considered residential environments.

The finishes, plainly explained

Mineral & Breathable

Lime Paint

The most breathable, natural finish available. Applied in thin mineral layers that let walls release moisture. Ideal for Singapore's humidity — it doesn't trap condensation like conventional paint.

  • Best for: feature walls, living rooms, bedrooms
  • Avoid in: wet areas, heavily trafficked corridors
  • Price range: higher than conventional paint, lower than plaster
  • Timeline: 2–3 days for a standard bedroom wall
Full Lime Paint Guide →
Tactile & Architectural

Lime Plaster

Hand-troweled mineral plasters that create depth, shadow, and a surface that feels intentional. No two walls are ever identical. The material has been used in architecture for centuries — it improves with age.

  • Best for: statement walls, lobbies, dining rooms
  • Avoid in: wet areas, surfaces with movement cracks
  • Price range: mid–high, depends on technique and layers
  • Timeline: 3–5 days including drying time
Full Lime Plaster Guide →
Seamless & Versatile

Microcement

The most technically demanding, and the most versatile. Properly installed microcement can go on walls, floors, and even in bathrooms. The key word is "properly" — substrate prep and sealing determine everything.

  • Best for: bathrooms, kitchens, floors, entire-home finishes
  • Avoid in: over unstable or heavily cracked substrates
  • Price range: higher due to system complexity
  • Timeline: 5–7 days minimum, longer for floors
Full Microcement Guide →
Expressive & Unique

Liquid Metal & Patina

Real metal particles in a mineral binder. Ages, oxidises, and evolves. Not decorative paint pretending to be metal — actual bronze, copper, or zinc suspended in plaster. Reserved for clients who understand that material behaviour is part of the aesthetic.

  • Best for: hotel lobbies, feature elements, high-end joinery
  • Avoid in: projects requiring exact, static colour matching
  • Price range: premium
  • Timeline: 5–10 days depending on patina process
Full Liquid Metal Guide →

Still not sure?

That's what we're here for. We specify before we apply — tell us about your space and we'll tell you what works.

Book a free consultation →