At Parrish Construction, we believe that the finishes you choose should be as intentional as the structure they cover. That’s why we’re excited to highlight one of our favorite luxury surface treatments: Vasari Marmorino Plaster & Colorant — a versatile, natural lime-based plaster that brings old-world texture and modern sophistication together in perfect harmony. This natural lime plaster is ideal for luxury interiors, high-end bathrooms, and custom architectural surfaces seeking texture, breathability, and timeless beauty.
What is Marmorino?
Marmorino is a traditional lime plaster finish, originating in Venice, that dates back thousands of years. Composed of slaked lime and finely ground marble, Vasari’s Marmorino offers a breathable, mold-resistant, and environmentally friendly alternative to paint or synthetic wall treatments. The result? A smooth, matte, or subtly polished surface with a natural depth and richness that evolves with light and time. Marmorino contains natural limestone, powdered marble and fine sand. Applied thicker than Veneziano, it can be applied smooth or in a more textured fashion. Applied with subtle color variation, Marmorino is a very popular finish that can be applied with a relatively matte to low sheen depending on technique.
Why We Love It
- Natural & Non-toxic- Marmorino is made from natural lime and marble, free of VOCs and synthetic binders. Ideal for clients who prioritize eco-conscious living without compromising aesthetics.
- Custom Finish Options- Whether you prefer a soft matte look, a polished sheen, or something textured and artisanal, Marmorino can be tailored to fit your vision.
- Beautiful Color Possibilities- Vasari’s rich Colorants are specifically designed to work seamlessly with their plaster, allowing for a custom palette that ranges from subtle neutrals to bold statement tones. These pigments are mineral-based, ensuring long-lasting, fade-resistant color.
- Interior or Exterior Use- Marmorino is not just for indoor elegance. It’s highly durable and can also be used for exterior facades, fireplaces, bathrooms, and even shower walls.
Whether applied by hand for a rustic effect or burnished for a marble-like sheen, Marmorino is more than a wall finish—it’s an architectural element that elevates a space.
Not Sure What to Expect? Try a Sample.
Sometimes texture and tone are hard to imagine from a screen. That’s where the Vasari Marmorino Sample Board comes in. These 12” x 12” boards are hand-applied and pre-tinted, giving you a tactile, true-to-life preview of the finish. It’s a great tool for designers, clients, or anyone who wants to see and feel the material before committing to a full install.
How to Apply Vasari Marmorino
Marmorino can be applied by both professionals and experienced DIYers. Whether you are hand-troweling a subtle finish or layering for more texture, the process is part of what makes lime plaster so rewarding.
- For best results, start with Vasari Primer to ensure adhesion and even color absorption.
- After applying the plaster, you can leave it matte, lightly burnish for a low sheen, or finish with Beeswax Polish for added depth and protection.
A Look at the Full Vasari Collection
Vasari doesn’t stop at Marmorino. They offer a full suite of artisan plasters, all lime-based and crafted with the same commitment to quality:
- Veneziano- Veneziano is made with natural limestone and powdered marble. It does not contain sand. Veneziano creates a smooth feel with beautiful deep variation. Depending on application, it can be left matte with a plastic trowel or given a medium to high sheen using a metal trowel. You can achieve a highly reflective finish with this product, even without wax. For a high gloss, we recommend applying a burnished third skim coat.
- Carrera- Carrera is made with natural limestone and powdered marble. It contains both fine and coarse sand. Applied thick for a medium to high textured feel, Carrera is used for a rustic old world look with high variation. When burnished it can take on a smoother look with low sheen.
- Lime Paint- Vasari Lime Paint is made from natural limestone and powdered marble, which enables it to take on the same properties of our plasters. It can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed just like conventional paint but is much more versatile. A medium texture can be achieved with a brush, or it can be troweled smooth, left matte or burnished to a medium sheen. Create a gorgeous Lime Wash by simply diluting Vasari Lime Paint with water.
- Master Coat- A high-performance, water-based clear topcoat designed for use over Vasari plasters when added durability and stain resistance are needed. It’s ideal for high-traffic areas, kitchens, and bathrooms. Master Coat provides a satin finish that protects without compromising the beauty of the natural plaster underneath.
- Primer, Sealer & Wax Finishes- Complete your project with Vasari’s compatible prep and finishing products that protect and enhance the plaster’s character over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Marmorino safe for bathrooms and showers?
Yes! Marmorino is naturally mold-resistant and breathable. When sealed properly with Vasari Sealant or Beeswax Polish, it’s ideal for bathrooms and even showers.
Can I order Vasari Marmorino online?
Absolutely. You can purchase Marmorino Plaster and Colorants directly through Vasari’s website or start with a Sample Board to explore finishes first.
How is Marmorino different from other plasters?
Unlike synthetic or acrylic plasters, Marmorino is made from natural slaked lime and marble, offering a finish that’s breathable, VOC-free, and rich with character.
Can Marmorino be applied over drywall or painted surfaces?
Yes, but proper prep is key. We recommend starting with Vasari Plaster Primer to ensure even adhesion and color absorption. This helps create the ideal surface for Marmorino application.
Is this a DIY-friendly product?
While professional application yields the most refined results, many experienced DIYers have success with Vasari products. Vasari even offers tutorial videos and guides for those who want to learn.
How do I maintain Marmorino plaster walls?
Marmorino is very low maintenance. It naturally resists dust and mildew, but for added protection and a light sheen, consider applying Vasari Soap or Beeswax Polish annually in high-use areas.
What kind of aesthetic does Marmorino suit best?
Its versatility shines in everything from Mediterranean and Tuscan-inspired interiors to sleek modern or minimal spaces. Whether rustic or refined, Marmorino adapts beautifully to your vision.
Can Marmorino be used in kitchens or behind stovetops?
Yes, Marmorino is a great choice for kitchens due to its breathability and natural antimicrobial properties. For areas exposed to steam or splashes, sealing with Beeswax Polish or Vasari Soap is recommended for added durability and wipe ability.
How long does Marmorino take to cure?
While it dries to the touch relatively quickly, full curing can take up to 30 days. During this time, it’s best to avoid excessive moisture and scrubbing to allow the plaster to carbonate fully and harden naturally.
What makes Vasari’s Marmorino different from other lime plasters on the market?
Vasari products are handcrafted in small batches using authentic ingredients—natural lime, marble powder, and mineral pigments—with no synthetic fillers. This results in superior depth, workability, and longevity.
Can Vasari Colorants be used with other plasters or paints?
Vasari Colorants are designed to integrate seamlessly with Vasari products, but they may also be compatible with other lime-based finishes. Always test first for color accuracy and performance.
Is Vasari Soap still available?
At the time of writing, Vasari Soap may no longer be available or may be undergoing a packaging update.
Looking to incorporate natural Venetian plaster into your next remodel or custom build?
We love specifying Vasari for clients who value beauty, sustainability, and craftsmanship. Let us help you choose the perfect finish for your space.
Are you a Designer or Builder?
We love collaborating on bespoke interiors that call for the richness of real materials. If you’re sourcing for a client, we can help you order sample boards or even arrange custom color matches using Vasari Colorants.
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