In the quiet charm of Lambton Mills, just west of Toronto’s core, a newly built home finds its sense of calm through the subtle beauty of a limewash-painted bathroom. Using Benjamin Moore’s Natural Elements 1515, a soft off-white with earthy green undertones, this design choice brings a grounded, organic ambiance to the space—blending contemporary construction with age-old texture and timeless serenity.

This soft off-white is gently infused with subdued green undertones—hints drawn from nature, reminiscent of river stones and weathered limestone. It doesn’t scream for attention, but rather whispers serenity. The hue fosters a spa-like atmosphere, ideal for a space devoted to restoration and self-care. In a bathroom, where peace of mind and sensory softness matter most, “Natural Elements” offers a balance between modern minimalism and earthy tranquility. By echoing colours found in natural stone—also used in the stand-up shower—this limewash finish weaves a seamless visual dialogue between the walls and surrounding materials, creating a soothing, immersive experience.

Limewash, an ancient paint made from crushed limestone and natural pigments, offers a unique, matte finish with subtle variations in colour. We don’t often recommend limewash in high-moisture areas like full bathrooms. Its natural porosity—while beautiful—can lead to oxidation and water sensitivity. That said, when a client is drawn to limewash for its aged elegance and nuanced texture, we make it work.

To preserve the finish in moisture-prone spaces, we typically use one of two sealing techniques:

• 2-Part Sealer: Creates a waterproof, non-breathable barrier, making the surface fully cleanable and ideal for direct water contact.
• Lime Soap Finish: Used when the surface isn’t in direct contact with water. It enhances color saturation, adds slight water-repellency, and gives a soft, silky glow that complements limewash’s natural variation.

In this bathroom, we used a lime soap transforming the limewash into a semi-durable, easy-towipe finish while retaining its mineral charm.

While limewash can be adapted for bathrooms with proper sealing, other decorative plasters are more naturally suited for wet environments:

Venetian Plaster

A polished lime-based finish with marble dust that’s breathable and mold-resistant. Its reflective quality and smooth texture make it a luxurious option for powder rooms and accent walls.

Tadelakt

An ancient Moroccan lime plaster that is naturally waterproof when polished with olive soap. Ideal for showers, sinks, or full wet rooms, it creates a monolithic, seamless look.

Microcement

A cement-based coating that can be applied to floors, walls, sinks, and tubs. It’s ultra-thin, seamless, waterproof, and modern—perfect for contemporary bathrooms or commercial spaces.

Each of these materials offers a different aesthetic and performance advantage depending on the needs of the space.

Even in a room as functional as a bathroom, limewash can offer something emotionally resonant—texture, calmness, and timeless elegance. The Natural Elements hue glows softly under ambient lighting, amplifying the earthy design language of this space. Paired with matte brass fixtures, soft textiles, and natural stone, the result is a bathroom that feels like a tranquil escape.

Just like we do with our living room projects, we ensure the flow and feel of limewash painting is not just visual—it’s experiential. And in this case, the result is a soothing sanctuary that merges beauty with function.

Limewash aesthetics refer to the distinctive visual and textural qualities that limewash paint imparts to surfaces. These aesthetics include:

Matte, Soft Finish — Limewash creates a matte, velvety surface that feels natural and understated, avoiding the shine of modern paints.

Subtle Texture and Depth — The application results in gentle variations and layering effects, giving walls a slightly mottled, handcrafted look that adds dimension and interest.

Earthy, Organic Colors — Limewash often features muted, natural tones inspired by minerals, clay, and stone, which evoke a rustic or old-world charm.

Translucency and Breathability — The pigment penetrates the surface rather than sitting on top, allowing for a breathable finish that changes subtly with light and humidity.

Aged, Weathered Look — Over time, limewash can develop a soft patina, enhancing its antique or vintage feel, perfect for historic or rustic interiors.

Connection to Nature — Its raw, mineral-based composition and natural color palette create a calming, grounded atmosphere.

Overall, limewash aesthetics bring a timeless, tactile, and organic beauty to walls, blending historic character with modern design sensibility.

The cost of applying a limewash finish to your living room typically ranges from $10 to $15 per square foot. This pricing is influenced by several factors, including surface preparation, the number of coats required, and the choice of sealant. Proper priming ensures the limewash adheres effectively, while multiple coats may be necessary to achieve the desired depth and texture. Additionally, selecting an appropriate sealant can enhance durability and affect the overall cost. Investing in professional limewash application not only elevates the aesthetic appeal of your space but also ensures a long-lasting, quality finish.​

To explore how limewash can transform your living space and to receive a personalized quote, visit our Limewash Accent Wall Services page.​