Tadelakt2025-08-28T13:17:13-04:00

Tadelakt Plasterer in Toronto – Moroccan Plaster

Powder room with copper-toned Tadelakt plaster on walls and ceiling.

Tadelakt Plaster: Everything You Need to Know About It

Timeless, seamless, and naturally waterproof—Tadelakt is the original luxury plaster finish. At Chromatist, we specialize in artisanal Tadelakt applications for high-end Toronto interiors, from spa-like bathrooms and hammams to sculptural fireplaces, niche walls, and statement showers.

Blending old-world Moroccan craftsmanship with modern Toronto design, our Tadelakt plastering services bring a tactile richness to spaces that crave elegance, warmth, and subtle earthiness.

What is Tadelakt?

Tadelakt is a traditional lime plaster from Morocco, hand-polished with a stone and sealed with natural olive soap. It results in a softly luminous, waterproof surface with organic curves and a marble-like texture. This ancient technique is ideal for bathrooms, wet rooms, powder rooms, feature walls, and built-ins.

Frequently Tadelakt Applications:

  • Shower walls & niches
  • Powder rooms
  • Fireplaces & feature walls
  • Range Hood

  • Floating vanities
  • Spa & wellness studios
Best painters near me : Homestars Best of the best winner -2023 for our Toronto Painting Services.
Chromatist Painters won the Best of HomeStars Awards 2023 that celebrate pros who go above and beyond when it comes to our three pillars of integrity, customer service, and consistency. Pros must be HomeStars Verified and have a strong track record of high level of service, reputation, and reliability
Chromatist Painters won the Best of HomeStars Awards 2023 that celebrate pros who go above and beyond when it comes to our three pillars of integrity, customer service, and consistency. Pros must be HomeStars Verified and have a strong track record of high level of service, reputation, and reliability
Chromatist Painters won the Best of HomeStars Awards 2022 that celebrate pros who go above and beyond when it comes to our three pillars of integrity, customer service, and consistency. Pros must be HomeStars Verified and have a strong track record of high level of service, reputation, and reliability
Chromatist team won the HomeStars Best of Award 2021 that celebrates pros who demonstrate consistency, integrity and unparalleled customer service. They produce high-quality work and always put their customers first.
Chromatist Painters won the Best of the Best Award 2019 honours pros who have risen to the top of their fields by winning Best of Awards year after year. These pros deserve an extra special distinction.

Tadelakt Plasterer in Toronto – Moroccan Plaster

Microcement wall finish in a cottage bathroom with a standup shower, showcasing a seamless and modern surface that enhances the rustic charm of the space.

Tadelakt Plaster: Everything You Need to Know About It

Timeless, seamless, and naturally waterproof—Tadelakt is the original luxury plaster finish. At Chromatist, we specialize in artisanal Tadelakt applications for high-end Toronto interiors, from spa-like bathrooms and hammams to sculptural fireplaces, niche walls, and statement showers.

Blending old-world Moroccan craftsmanship with modern Toronto design, our Tadelakt plastering services bring a tactile richness to spaces that crave elegance, warmth, and subtle earthiness.

What is Tadelakt?

Tadelakt is a traditional lime plaster from Morocco, hand-polished with a stone and sealed with natural olive soap. It results in a softly luminous, waterproof surface with organic curves and a marble-like texture. This ancient technique is ideal for bathrooms, wet rooms, powder rooms, feature walls, and built-ins.

Frequently Requested Applications:

  • Shower walls & niches
  • Powder rooms
  • Fireplaces & feature walls
  • Floating vanities
  • Spa & wellness studios

Speak To Shayan 416 (606) 8060 or Request A Quote

Why Choose Tadelakt Plaster for Your Toronto Home or Business?

Why Choose Tadelakt Plaster for Your Toronto Home or Business?

Tadelakt is more than a finish—it’s a centuries-old art form that blends function and beauty in a way few materials can. For discerning homeowners, designers, and architects in Toronto, Tadelakt offers a luxurious alternative to tiles and synthetic surfaces. Here’s why it’s a favourite in high-end interiors:

  • Naturally Waterproof Without Seams: Tadelakt is water-resistant by nature, thanks to its lime base and olive soap finish. That means no grout lines, no mold, and a seamless look perfect for wet areas like showers, bathtubs, and vanities.

  • Organic, Sculptural Texture: Hand-polished with stones, Tadelakt has a soft, velvety surface that feels both ancient and contemporary. Its subtle movement and mineral depth create a tactile richness that elevates any space.

  • Timeless & Enduring: Unlike trendy finishes that come and go, Tadelakt has stood the test of time. From ancient Moroccan hammams to minimalist Toronto homes, it adds enduring elegance to any design.

  • Eco-Friendly & Non-Toxic: Made from natural lime, earth pigments, and olive soap, Tadelakt contains no synthetic resins or VOCs. It’s breathable, antibacterial, and perfect for those seeking a healthy home environment.

  • Custom Colours & Unique Patina: While traditionally soft and neutral, Tadelakt can be tinted to match modern colour palettes—from Farrow & Ball’s earthy tones to Benjamin Moore’s designer shades. Over time, it develops a rich, lived-in patina that tells a story.

  • Ideal for High-End, Bespoke Design: Whether you’re creating a luxury ensuite in Forest Hill, a sculptural fireplace in Rosedale, or a tranquil spa in Summerhill, Tadelakt brings an artisan-crafted, globally inspired finish to your Toronto home.

hallway walls of a modern spa finished in a high ghloss blush vibrant Tadelakt finish

Our Tadelakt Installation Process

Our Tadelakt application is a multi-step process that blends careful preparation with artisanal skill.

Step 1: Design Consultation & Colour Planning

We begin with an in-depth consultation to understand your vision and the unique surfaces in your space. You’ll be guided through custom colour options inspired by Farrow & Ball, Benjamin Moore, or natural mineral tones, and we’ll recommend where Tadelakt will make the biggest impact—from showers and bathtubs to curved niches and fireplace surrounds.

Step 2: Substrate Preparation

Tadelakt must be applied over a suitable surface like cement board, lime plaster, or waterproof render. We prep and prime the area with meticulous care, ensuring it’s smooth, stable, and moisture-resistant. Uneven surfaces or drywall are reinforced or restructured to create the perfect foundation.

Step 3: Tadelakt Base Coats

The Tadelakt is applied in multiple layers, building up its strength and texture. Each layer is carefully troweled and refined by handThe Tadelakt is applied in multiple layers, building up its strength and texture. Each layer is carefully troweled and refined by hand.

The first step in applying microcement is the base layer, which is a primer that helps the microcement adhere properly. This layer is carefully applied and allowed to dry thoroughly before proceeding.

Step 4: Polishing with Stone & Soap

This is where the magic of Tadelakt happens. While the plaster is still fresh, we polish the surface using a smooth river stone, compressing the plaster into a silky, undulating finish. The final step involves massaging in natural olive soap, which reacts with the lime to create a water-resistant barrier and gives Tadelakt its signature satin glow.

Step 5: Curing & Finishing Touches

Tadelakt continues to harden and patinate over time, developing a unique character that no synthetic product can match. We return after several days for a final inspection and touch-ups, ensuring the surface is fully sealed, functional, and ready to impress.

Speak To Shayan 416 (606) 8060 or Request A Quote

Venetian plaster walls in a washroom of a downtown Toronto, in a dirty pink colour

How Much Does Tadelakt Cost?

Tadelakt is a high-end, artisanal wall finish — and its cost reflects that level of craftsmanship. In Toronto, the cost of Tadelakt plaster installation typically ranges from $30 to $50 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the project, surface preparation, desired colour, and final sheen.

Several key factors influence the price of Tadelakt:

  • Surface Area & Complexity: Curved walls, niches, bathtubs, and sinks require more skill and time, increasing labour costs.
  • Substrate Prep: Surfaces like drywall must be reinforced and treated to handle the lime-based material, especially in wet areas.
  • Colour Customization: Tadelakt can be tinted with natural pigments or matched to luxury paint colours like Farrow & Ball, Benjamin Moore, or Sherwin-Williams tones.
  • Waterproofing Requirements: Bathrooms and showers require additional soap-wax polishing for a durable, water-resistant finish.

While more expensive than standard tile or paint, Tadelakt delivers a seamless, sculptural, and timeless aesthetic that elevates any interior. For homeowners and designers working on luxury homes in areas like Rosedale, Forest Hill, Summerhill, or Casa Loma, Tadelakt is a premium alternative to conventional wall finishes — one that speaks to refined taste and long-term value.

Tadelakt plaster feature wall with curved niches in soft bone colour in Toronto home interior
Tadelakt Accent Walls
Tadelakt Bathrooms and Showers
Kitchen island with a sleek microcement finish in Leaside, showcasing a modern and seamless design
Tadelakt Fireplace Surrounds
Kitchen Backsplashes & Range Hoods
Tadelakt Vanities & Washroom Niches
Retail, Hospitality & Commercial Interiors
Tadelakt Plaster: Everything You Need to Know About It…

Tadelakt Plaster: Everything You Need to Know About It…

Tadelakt is a high-end, artisanal plaster that’s gaining popularity for its seamless, waterproof finish. Below are answers to the most common questions about this luxurious and durable decorative surface.

What are the alternatives to Tadelakt, and how does it compare to Microcement?2025-08-28T11:50:39-04:00

The most common alternative to Tadelakt is Microcement. While both materials create a seamless and waterproof finish, they offer different aesthetics. Tadelakt provides a traditional, organic, and softly polished look, with a marble-like texture achieved by hand-polishing with a river stone. Microcement, on the other hand, is a cement-based coating known for its sleek, minimalist, and contemporary feel. It offers a cleaner, more industrial aesthetic, making it a popular choice for modern design.

To see a side-by-side comparison, read our full article on Tadelakt vs Microcement: Which is Best for Your Bathroom or Walls?

Can you apply Tadelakt to drywall?2025-08-28T11:04:06-04:00

Tadelakt should not be applied directly to drywall. The substrate must be solid, stable, and absorbent—such as cement board, lime render, or a properly prepared masonry surface. Drywall must be reinforced and primed with a mineral-compatible base coat before Tadelakt is applied.

Is Tadelakt high maintenance?2025-08-28T11:03:29-04:00

Tadelakt is low-maintenance when properly cared for. Use only gentle, pH-neutral soaps, and avoid harsh abrasives. Occasional reapplication of soap wax maintains its waterproof barrier. In return, it offers decades of beauty and functionality.

 

Can I apply Tadelakt myself? Can you DIY Tadelakt?2025-08-28T11:02:35-04:00

Tadelakt is not recommended as a DIY project unless you have professional plastering experience. The process requires precision, knowledge of drying times, and the use of natural soap and burnishing stones. Incorrect application can lead to cracking or water damage.

While DIY kits exist, achieving a true Tadelakt finish takes practice, patience, and specialized tools. For best results—especially in wet areas like showers—hiring a trained Tadelakt plasterer in Toronto is the safest option.

 

Why is Tadelakt so expensive?2025-08-28T11:01:50-04:00

The cost reflects the specialized skill, natural materials, and labour-intensive method—including hand polishing with a stone and soaping for waterproofing. Few finishes combine functionality with sculptural beauty the way  Tadelakt does, making it a rare, high-end choice.

 

 

 

What are the disadvantages of Tadelakt?2025-08-28T11:00:59-04:00

While beautiful and durable, Tadelakt does require skilled application and regular care (waterproofing via olive oil soap application to be revisited every other year). It’s sensitive to acidic cleaners and sharp impacts, making it less ideal for high-traffic areas or households where maintenance might be neglected. Still, its pros often outweigh the cons for those seeking a luxury finish.

 

 

 

Is Tadelakt plastering more expensive than tiling?2025-08-28T11:00:05-04:00

Yes, Tadelakt is generally more expensive than standard tiling due to the labour-intensive, artisan application process. However, unlike tiles, Tadelakt is seamless, hand-finished, and completely natural, adding more value in terms of aesthetics and resale appeal in upscale Toronto homes.

 

 

How much does Tadelakt plaster cost in Toronto?2025-08-28T10:58:36-04:00

Tadelakt is a premium finish, typically ranging from $25–$50 per square foot depending on the surface, complexity, and customization. Custom colours, curves, and waterproofing can affect pricing. For high-end bathrooms or architectural features, it’s an investment in artistry and longevity.

 

By considering these factors, Chromatist Painters provides transparent and customized estimates for Tadelakt Plaster Installation in Greater Toronto Area, ensuring a cost-effective solution tailored to your unique project requirements.

Request a Quote for Tadelakt in Toronto

Let’s explore your vision. Reach out for a consultation and bring handcrafted, waterproof elegance to your next project.

Tel: 416-606-8060

Email: shayan@chromatist.com

Project type: *

Tadelakt Plaster Services in Toronto and Surrounding Areas

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