We devote gallons upon gallons of attention to paint colors, and that is necessary and good. But what about plaster finishes? What about timeless artful possibilities for texture, depth and soul? It’s explored in a book I love called SEGRETO Impressions by Leslie Sinclair. I encourage you to peek inside this exquisite interiors volume highlighting the work of Segreto Finishes.
![Beautiful painted mural with trees in a timeless, breathtaking bath with console sink - Segreto Finishes.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Segreto-Gallery-Mural1.jpg)
I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may also earn a commission.
Segreto Finishes: Plaster Artistry & Beyond
Leslie Sinclair’s SEGRETO impressions explores stellar design work from Segreto Finishes in an eclectic mix of sophisticated (and frequently French-inspired!) interiors.
![Segreto impressions by Leslie Sinclair - book cover.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/segreto-impressions-book-cover-1.jpg)
![Happiness quote by Walt Whitman on Hello Lovely. #happinessquotes](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/INSPIRATION-quote-walt-whitman-happiness-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
Segreto Finishes Transformed Interiors
The lovely glimpses here are only the beginning of the story!
![Old World style French country kitchen with antiques, reclaimed materials, and finish work by Segreto Finishes.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Segreto-Gallery-Plaster7-1.jpg)
As you know, plaster wall finishes have a long and rich history going back thousands of years.
![From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. An 18th-century altar from Touraine in the entry of a newly constructed home with antique and reclaimed design features. #frenchantique #religiousantiques #plasterwalls #oldworldstyle](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Segreto-Finishes-impressions-book-antique-Swedish-settee-plaster-walls-sunburst.jpg)
Above: Lovely plastered walls whisper elegance in a traditional English Country style home with a collection of mirrors and also hand-scraped wood floors.
![Lovely dining room with mural painted by Segreto Finishes, round pedestal table, and grand chandelier.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Segreto-Gallery-Mural13.jpg)
We can trace plaster wall finishes back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans.
![Segreto Finishes French country kitchen with antiques and bespoke design details.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/segreto-finishes-french-kitchen-chateau-domingue.jpg)
The Egyptians were among the first to develop plaster as a wall finish, mixing lime, gypsum, and sand to create a smooth and durable surface. Plaster was often adorned with intricate paintings and hieroglyphics.
![Beauty quote by Alice Walker on Hello Lovely Studio. #beautyquotes #soulfulquotes #alicewalker](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/ALICE-WALKER-quote-beauty-restoring-own-soul-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
Plaster continued to be popular in ancient Greece and Rome where the Greeks used a mixture of marble dust and lime to create a polished finish known as stucco.
![Sculptural staircase with beautiful plaster work by Segreto Finishes.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Segreto-Gallery-Horizontal-Plaster20-9.jpg)
The Romans expanded on this technique and used plaster to create decorative wall finishes in grand buildings, such as the villas of Pompeii.
![My copy of Segreto impressions book by Leslie Sinclair in my studio with my pointe shoes and prayer beads - Hello Lovely Studio.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/IMG_9364.jpg)
During the Middle Ages, plaster wall finishes were commonly used in Europe when the technique of applying plaster over lath (thin strips of wood) became popular.
![Beautiful traditional style dining room with mural by Segreto Finishes.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Segreto-Gallery-Mural11.jpg)
SEGRETO IMPRESSIONS Demystifies the Allure
This method provided a stable surface for the plaster to adhere to and allowed for more intricate designs.
While SEGRETO impressions impresses with breathtaking wall finishes within dream homes, it also demystifies and inspires our own creative mark making. If you admire French interiors, you will discover much more than a pleasing escape within these pages.
![From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. An 18th-century altar from Touraine in the entry of a newly constructed home with antique and reclaimed design features. #frenchantique #religiousantiques #plasterwalls #oldworldstyle](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Segreto-Finishes-impressions-book-alcove-plaster-old-world-style-French-country-religious.jpg)
Plaster wall finishes reached new heights during the Renaissance. Italian craftsmen developed new techniques to create ornamental plasterwork known as “stucco work.”
![Decorative plaster work on a ceiling - Segreto Finishes.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Segreto-Gallery-Decorative-20-4.jpg)
These Finishes are a Lovely Feast for Francophiles
Elaborate plaster moldings, cornices, and ceiling decorations were created to embellish grand palaces and churches.
![Luxurious and serene bath with finishes by Segreto Finishes.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Segreto-Gallery-26.jpg)
While SEGRETO impressions rolls out a feast of finishes, a nourishing design education is also on the menu.
![Gold leaf embellished ceiling medallion and beautiful chandelier - Segreto Finishes.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Segreto-Gallery-27.jpg)
In the 18th century, neoclassical architecture emerged, drawing inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman designs. Plaster wall finishes played a significant role in this style.
![From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. Magnificent plaster walls and ceilings in the entry of a charming newly constructed Country French home. #staircase oldworld #frenchcountry #plasterwalls #interiordesign](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Segreto-Finishes-impressions-book-staircase-plaster-walls-stone-floor-old-world-French-country.jpg)
Above: Magnificent plaster walls and ceilings as well as soothing color grace the entry of a charming Country French home.
![Luxurious and serene bath with finishes by Segreto Finishes.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Segreto-Gallery-23.jpg)
Smooth, white plaster walls became fashionable, often adorned with delicate plaster moldings and decorative motifs.
![Deena Metger inspirational quote about beauty. #beautyquotes #inspirationalquotes #deenametzger](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/beauty-quote-inspirational-wisdom-hello-lovely-studio-deena-metzger-authenticity.jpg)
![Hello Lovely Studio](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/IMG_9319.jpg)
In the 19th century, plaster wall finishes remained popular, especially during the Victorian era. Plasterwork became more extravagant and detailed, reflecting the ornate tastes of the period.
![Murphy Mears designed kitchen (Jill Egan interiors) with plaster work by Segreto Finishes.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/murphy-mears-kitchen-jill-egan-plaster-segreto-2.jpg)
Lovely Plaster Walls + French Antiques
![From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. This great room incorporates beams from the homeowner's South Texas ranch as well as 18th-century doors from Avignon. #interiordesign #frenchcountry #plasterwalls #greatroom](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Segreto-Finishes-impressions-book-living-room-plaster-walls-french-country-design-1.jpg)
Above: A great room incorporates beams from the homeowner’s South Texas ranch as well as 18th-century doors from Avignon.
![Segreto Finishes raised plaster design in a timeless bath in Marie Flanigan's THE BEAUTY OF HOME: Redefining Traditional Interiors (Gibbs Smith, 2020).](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/marie-flanigan-the-beauty-of-home-001-julie-soefer.jpg)
Elaborate ceiling roses, cornices, and friezes were common features in Victorian homes.
![Sunburst mirrors massed on a plaster wall (Segreto Finishes) with antique bench. #oldworldstyle #plasterwalls](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/segreto-finishes-sunburst-antique-bench.jpg)
But where did all the plasterwork go in the 20th century? With new building materials available such as drywall in the 20th century, plaster wall finishes gradually declined in popularity. Drywall offered a quicker and more cost-effective alternative for wall construction.
Enchantingly Fresh Takes on Old World
BEHOLD a breathtaking kitchen in a newly constructed home where a 16th-century mantel (WHAT!?!) serves as a kitchen hood and French street lamps were also converted to pendant lighting!
![From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. French antiques, plaster finishes and Old World style in a showstopping modern functioning kitchen. #kitchendesign #frenchkitchen #antiques #oldworld #plasterwalls](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Segreto-Finishes-impressions-book-kitchen-plaster-old-world-style-French-3.jpg)
But drywall isn’t the only option should there be room in the budget for this beautiful alternative! Plaster finishes retained a niche market, particularly in high-end residential and restoration projects.
Above: French antiques and plaster finishes as well as Old World style in a modern functioning kitchen with integrated SegretoStone sink.
![Beauty inspirational quote by Irish poet John O'Donohue on Hello Lovely. #beautyquotes #inspirationalquotes #johnodonohue](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/002-inspirational-quote-beauty-without-unbearable-john-odonohue.jpg)
![From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. French antiques, plaster finishes and Old World style in a showstopping modern functioning kitchen. #kitchendesign #frenchkitchen #antiques #oldworld #plasterwalls](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Segreto-Finishes-impressions-book-kitchen-plaster-old-world-style-French-green-velvet.jpg)
Today, plaster wall finishes are celebrated for the rich layer of depth they add to fine homes, for their timeless beauty and craftsmanship.
![Hello Lovely Studio](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/IMG_9363.jpg)
Masterful Finishes Unite Antiques With New Fixtures
What a statement this kitchen island makes in a newly constructed European country style home! It’s a re-worked 17th-century cabinet from a French sacristy which has been modified for modern living.
After all, the kitchen has become the new living room!
![From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. A quiet-toned newly constructed kitchen incorporating antiques from France. #frenchkitchen #frenchcountry #frenchantiques #bespokekitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Segreto-Finishes-impressions-book-kitchen-plaster-old-world-16th-century-French-3.jpg)
Skilled artisans and craftsmen at Segreto Finishes are innovative in their work while preserving traditional plastering techniques.
![Inspirational quote about nature's beauty and wisdom by John Muir on Hello Lovely Studio. #inspirationalquote #quotes #johnmuir #naturequotes](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/inspirational-quote-hello-lovely-studio-nature-beauty-john-muir.jpg)
![From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. This great room incorporates beams from the homeowner's South Texas ranch as well as 18th-century doors from Avignon. #interiordesign #frenchcountry #plasterwalls #greatroom](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Segreto-Finishes-impressions-book-living-room-plaster-walls-french-country-design-001.jpg)
Above: The stone mantel in a magnificent great room is from a farm in France’s Lorraine region.
Ethereal Mood & Unexpected Glamour
Beautiful plaster walls impart both character and interest!
![From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. Mohair chaise lounges in the dramatic 'vintage glam' living room of designer Sarah West. #livingroom #plasterwalls #interiordesign #vintageglam](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Segreto-Finishes-impressions-book-living-room-plaster-modern-chaise.jpg)
Here’s hoping that this ancient art form continues to flourish in contemporary architecture and interior design!
![From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. Plastered walls and ceilings as well as reclaimed wood flooring sing in a newly constructed, timeless European country inspired home. #interiordesign #plasterwalls #oldworld #staircase](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Segreto-Finishes-impressions-book-staircase-plaster-walls-old-world-French-country.jpg)
Segreto Finishes are not simply for walls. Even the “too new” black staircase railings (above) were intelligently addressed. Artisans softly layered the wrought iron with umber and gray glazes, creating a patina to harmonize with reclaimed wood stairs.
![F. Scott Fitzgerald inspirational quote about belonging. #quotes #fscottfitzgerald #belonging](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/inspirational-quote-hello-lovely-studio-f-scott-fitzgerald-beauty-of-literature-belong.jpg)
Patina Parfait
The day pantry and refrigerator in this glorious Old World style kitchen are hidden behind new doors finished exquisitely by Segreto.
![From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. A quiet-toned newly constructed kitchen incorporating antiques from France. #frenchkitchen #frenchcountry #frenchantiques #bespokekitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Segreto-Finishes-impressions-book-kitchen-plaster-old-world-16th-century-French-2.jpg)
Can you imagine living within a masterfully wrought piece of art?
![From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. French antiques, plaster finishes and Old World style in a showstopping modern functioning kitchen. #kitchendesign #frenchkitchen #antiques #oldworld #plasterwalls](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Segreto-Finishes-impressions-book-kitchen-plaster-old-world-style-French-2.jpg)
Because no matter the budget, I love the idea of the home as canvas where the goal is not to fill it with colors or objects suggested by media and the marketplace. But to layer it (even experimentally) thoughtfully as an interior landscape.
![Segreto Finishes transformed a beautiful Spanish style home.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/segreto-finishes-spanish-kitchen.jpg)
Above: A waterfall island and SegretoStone hood distinguish this warm Spanish revival style kitchen and keeping room.
Getting the composition right becomes a subjective artistic exercise. I’m certainly not suggesting we all have it in us to take on the challenge…thank goodness for interior designers willing to partner with us!
![John O'Donohue quote and blessing of encouragement on Hello Lovely Studio. #blessingquote #gracequote](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/001-encouragement-quote-blessing-future-graced-love-john-odonohue-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
Even artsy friends and family members can help when we get stuck.
![Beautiful classic traditional dining room with pale blue color palette in SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. #interiordesign #diningroom #classic #traditionalstyle](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Segreto-Finishes-impressions-book-dining-room-plaster-traditional-classic.jpg)
Above: In case you Francophiles admire pretty blue and classic style!
![Timeless and sophisticated bathroom design by Marie Flanigan (West Lane). #timelessdesign #luxuriousbathroom](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/marie-flanigan-timeless-bathroom-plaster-decorative-wall.jpg)
Segreto Meets Spanish Revival
This is an amazing project illustrating how Old World techniques and sensibilities can blend beautifully with modern design style and lifestyles.
![Inspiring quote of encouragement on Hello Lovely Studio about flowers from Theodore Roethke. #inspirational #quote #kindness #encouragement #Roethke](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/farrow-ball-green-smoke-inspirational-quote-encouragement-flowers-roethke.jpg)
Timeless style means you won’t groan in ten years about the choices made!
![From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. The unique flooring in this Spanish-style home's master bath is actually antique Parefeuille ceiling tile. #oldworld #interiordesign #spanishstyle #bathroom #plasterwalls](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Segreto-Finishes-impressions-book-bathroom-arches-tub-plaster-walls.jpg)
I’m just crazy for that chandelier over the tub!
More Segreto Finish Splendor
![Breathtaking plaster work by Segreto Finishes.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Segreto-Gallery-Mural4.jpg)
![Encouragement quote (It's not too late to...) on Hello Lovely Studio.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/encouragement-quote-its-not-too-late-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
![Beautiful finishes on walls and wood ceiling by Segreto Finishes.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Segreto-Gallery-Wood7.jpg)
Merci beaucoup, Segreto!
Thank you, Leslie and Segreto Finishes – for friendship and also for creating a thoughtful resource timeless design admirers will adore!
![Hello Lovely Studio's counter with SEGRETO IMPRESSIONS book and African glass bead necklace.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/IMG_9320.jpg)
ORDER YOUR COPY OF SEGRETO impressions and also follow Segreto on IG! Have a moment to peek at a few European inspired beautiful homes?
Psst. While we don’t possess the plastering skills of artisans at Segreto, we plastered the custom range hood in our DIY kitchen:
![Pom pom garland at the kitchen sink window - Hello Lovely Studio. #paviliongray #graykitchen #calacattagoldmarble](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/001-thanksgiving-28.jpg)
And the collection of sunburst mirrors as seen above reminded me of a mood board I assembled:
![Modern French Nordic Get the Look on Hello Lovely! #modernfrench #homedecor #gustavianstyle #nordicfrench](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/modern-french-nordic-get-the-look-hello-lovely-studio-banner.jpg)
Peace to you right where you are.
-michele
I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.
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So many beautiful spaces, their work is amazing!
Love all of your quotes Michele! Have a wonderful day!
Author
They keep adding more innovative finishes and artistic layers to their repertoire! Thanks for tuning in today, Elizabeth. 🙂