Is Traditional Plaster Still Relevant In Modern Design?

In a world of sleek minimalism and modular design, traditional and decorative plaster might seem to be a relic of the past. Yet it’s an increasingly common feature inside many of today’s most striking contemporary buildings, where it’s used to subtly shape light, soften transitions, and add texture.

So, why is traditional plaster still so relevant in 2025, and why is it highly regarded by modern architects and high-end building contractors?

What makes traditional plaster so unique?

Traditional plaster is more than just a wall finish; it’s a craft. Unlike plasterboard or synthetic mouldings, it’s applied and shaped by hand, allowing for a seamless, characterful finish. Made from lime, gypsum, or even clay, traditional plaster breathes naturally with a building. 

This makes it ideal for heritage projects, but equally appealing in new builds that prioritise sustainability, natural materials, and long-term performance. In an era where clients demand both craftsmanship and authenticity, traditional plaster offers something that modern mass-produced materials can’t: individuality.

Why are modern architects reintroducing traditional techniques?

A growing number of contemporary architects and interior designers are rediscovering traditional plasterwork. This trend stems from a broader movement toward “modern heritage” – the blending of old-world craftsmanship with new architectural forms.

Hand-finished plaster details complement minimalist spaces by providing depth and subtle texture without visual clutter. In open-plan designs, plaster panelling or softly coved ceilings create a sense of flow and calm. 

The tactile quality of plaster reflects natural light beautifully, which is something that even the most advanced paint or wall panels can’t reproduce.

How does traditional plaster support sustainable design?

Sustainability is no longer a design trend: it’s a professional obligation. Traditional lime plaster, often used in lath and plaster heritage restoration projects,  aligns perfectly with this ethos.

Lime is a natural, low-impact material that absorbs CO₂ as it cures, helping reduce a building’s carbon footprint. Its permeability also allows walls to “breathe,” preventing moisture build-up and extending a building’s lifespan, which is crucial for both restoration and new construction.

For architects and contractors working on sustainable or passive builds, plaster’s longevity and eco-credentials make it a material that’s both traditional and forward-thinking.

Can traditional plaster work in minimalist spaces?

Yes; in fact it’s a beautiful combination. Minimalism isn’t just about clean lines; it’s about integrity of materials. A seamless lime or gypsum plaster finish provides understated luxury, offering visual calm while adding warmth and tactility.

In many high-end residential and hospitality projects, designers use traditional plaster to achieve “invisible craftsmanship” – finishes that look effortless but are the result of expert skill.

Even where the architectural language is ultra-modern – concrete, glass, and steel –  traditional plaster can soften edges, improve acoustics, and introduce a subtle layer of human touch that balances industrial materials.

What role does decorative plaster still play in modern design?

While contemporary architecture often favours restraint, there’s a parallel trend toward statement detailing. Bespoke plaster cornices, ceiling roses, and mouldings are being reimagined with cleaner profiles and contemporary proportions.

Rather than ornate Victorian embellishment, today’s decorative plasterwork often features geometric lines, minimalist coving, or subtle shadow gaps, combining a nod to tradition with modern sensibilities.

For luxury developers and interior designers, this fusion of old and new elevates interiors from simply “modern” to truly timeless.

How do restoration skills enhance new-build projects?

High-end contractors increasingly rely on heritage-trained plaster specialists, not only for restoration work but also for new commissions. These craftspeople bring precision, material knowledge, and an eye for proportion that machines can’t replicate.

Whether matching a Grade II listed cornice or creating a bespoke contemporary moulding, their ability to blend restoration principles with design innovation ensures a level of finish that defines premium quality.

For architects, partnering with traditional plaster artisans adds both aesthetic and technical value, from accurate detailing drawings to flawless on-site execution.

Plaster: a material with enduring relevance

Far from fading into history, traditional plaster has re-emerged as a quiet hero of contemporary design. It offers sustainability, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance, which are qualities that resonate with today’s architects, clients, and contractors.

In the end, the relevance of traditional plaster isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about performance, beauty, and integrity. As design trends evolve, its versatility ensures it will continue shaping the most sophisticated interiors of the modern era.

Why Is Lath & Plaster Used In Heritage Restoration Projects?

When it comes to restoring heritage buildings, one of the most important elements is the plasterwork. For centuries, lath and plaster was the standard method of finishing walls and ceilings, providing both strength and character. 

While modern plasterboard has largely replaced this traditional technique, lath and plaster continues to play a vital role in the restoration and preservation of historic properties. But why is it still so important today?

What exactly is lath & plaster?

Lath and plaster is an age-old method of wall and ceiling construction. Thin strips of timber, called laths, were nailed horizontally to wall studs or ceiling joists, leaving small gaps between them. Wet lime or gypsum plaster was then applied, pushing through the gaps to form “keys” that hold the plaster in place once dry.

This method not only created a strong and durable surface but also allowed for intricate shaping, curves, and detailing; something that modern plasterboard simply cannot replicate with the same authenticity.

Why is lath & plaster so important in heritage properties?

Heritage buildings, particularly those built before the mid-20th century, were almost always finished with lath and plaster. Preserving these features is essential because they:

• Maintain historical accuracy – Lath and plaster walls are a defining feature of period architecture. Replacing them with plasterboard often results in a loss of authenticity.

• Contribute to character – The texture, feel, and slight irregularities of lath and plaster create an atmosphere that modern materials cannot reproduce.

• Support structural design – In many older homes, plasterwork was integral to the structure. Removing it can compromise stability or alter acoustics and insulation.

For listed buildings in the UK, regulations often require that original building methods be respected during restoration. That makes lath and plaster not just desirable, but sometimes a legal necessity.

What are the benefits of retaining lath & plaster?

Some property owners wonder if keeping lath and plaster is worth the effort, especially when repairs can seem more time-consuming than simply replacing it. However, there are real benefits to retaining this traditional finish:

• Breathability – Lime plaster allows buildings to “breathe,” preventing moisture from becoming trapped in walls, which can otherwise lead to damp problems.

• Acoustic qualities – Lath and plaster walls often provide better sound insulation than thin plasterboard partitions.

• Fire resistance – The multiple layers of lime plaster add inherent fire resistance, offering greater protection than modern alternatives.

• Longevity – When properly maintained, lath and plaster can last for centuries.

These qualities highlight why restoration experts continue to value this traditional material.

Can lath & plaster be repaired, or must it be replaced?

Lath and plaster can often be repaired rather than replaced. Skilled plasterers can assess whether the laths are still sound, repairing damaged sections or reattaching loose plaster where possible. Cracks and sagging areas can often be consolidated without full replacement.

In cases where sections are beyond repair, new lath and plaster can be installed using traditional methods to seamlessly blend with the original work. This approach ensures the authenticity of the property is retained while meeting modern safety and performance standards.

What role does lath & plaster play in listed building restoration?

In the UK, listed buildings are protected by law to preserve their historic and architectural significance. This means any restoration work must use methods and materials that are in keeping with the original design. Lath and plaster is often specified in such projects because:

• It ensures compliance with conservation guidelines.

• It preserves the building’s cultural and architectural value.

• It helps maintain period features, such as curved walls, niches, and decorative mouldings, which plasterboard cannot replicate effectively.

Specialist plastering companies are usually called upon for these projects, as they combine traditional craftsmanship with knowledge of heritage regulations.

How does skilled craftsmanship make a difference?

While the concept of lath and plaster may seem simple, the skill required to apply it correctly is significant. Heritage plasterers must understand not only the technique but also the materials. For example:

• Traditional lime plaster requires a very different application method than modern gypsum.

• Matching finishes to existing walls ensures seamless restoration.

• Knowledge of period styles allows the plasterer to replicate historic details faithfully.

Choosing an expert plaster company ensures the work is not only functional but also sympathetic to the building’s history.

Should homeowners consider lath & plaster in modern renovations?

While lath and plaster is most commonly associated with restoration, some homeowners and architects are reintroducing it into modern renovations for its unique qualities. The breathability of lime plaster, its sound insulation, and its ability to create organic shapes make it an attractive option for those seeking character and sustainability in their homes.

Why Plaster Restoration Matters In Listed Building Projects

When working on a listed building, every method and material counts towards preserving the historic exterior and authenticity of interior features. High-end contractors and architects often face the challenge of balancing heritage integrity with modern standards, and expert plaster restoration plays a key role in this process. 

What is plaster restoration and why is it essential?

Plaster restoration is the skilled repair and replication of decorative plaster elements such as cornices, ceiling roses, and mouldings. Unlike general plastering, restoration work involves protecting the craftsmanship and design details of historic interiors.

In listed building projects, plaster restoration is essential because:

• It preserves the original character of the property.

• It ensures compliance with heritage regulations.

• It maintains the architectural integrity of period features such as lath & plaster walls, Georgian cornice mouldings, and Victorian cornices.

• By restoring rather than replacing, contractors can achieve both authenticity and longevity.

How does lath & plaster feature in listed buildings?

Lath and plaster was the standard construction method for interior walls and ceilings before modern plasterboard. It involves thin timber laths fixed to joists, overlaid with multiple coats of plaster.

Many listed buildings still contain original lath and plaster surfaces, which are highly valued for their historic authenticity. When damaged, these should be carefully restored rather than replaced with modern materials. Skilled plaster restoration specialists can replicate the traditional techniques, ensuring continuity with the original structure.

What challenges come with restoring listed building plasterwork?

Restoring plasterwork in listed properties can be complex. Common challenges include:

• Structural issues: Cracks, sagging ceilings, or water damage can compromise lath & plaster integrity.

• Matching historic details: Cornice replication requires accuracy, especially with Victorian cornice designs or Georgian plaster cornice mouldings.

• Working under restrictions: Listed building regulations often limit what materials and methods can be used.

A plaster restoration specialist will survey the property, recommend solutions, and hand-craft replacements where needed.

Why is cornice replication so important in heritage projects?

Cornices are a defining feature of period interiors. Whether it’s a Victorian cornice with intricate floral patterns or the elegance of Georgian cornice mouldings, they set the tone for the entire room.

Cornice replication ensures that missing or damaged sections are replaced seamlessly. Using moulds taken from surviving details, restorers can create exact replicas. This process allows continuity across the property while protecting its heritage value.

What role do ceiling roses and decorative plaster features play?

Plaster ceiling roses and other decorative plasterwork are more than ornamental details: they are architectural statements. In listed buildings, they reflect the craftsmanship and design trends of their era.

Restoring these features maintains the visual balance of interiors. For example, an Art Deco plaster cornice adds geometric precision, while a Victorian cornice brings ornamental richness. Each element contributes to the property’s overall aesthetic and historic significance.

How does plaster restoration blend with contemporary needs?

While listed building restoration focuses on the past, contractors often need to meet modern standards of comfort and safety. Contemporary ceiling cornice designs can be introduced sympathetically, blending heritage features with modern architectural styles.

For example:

• Subtle contemporary cornices can transition between restored period details and modern extensions.

• Decorative plaster can conceal modern utilities such as lighting or ventilation without compromising aesthetics.

• This combination allows listed buildings to remain both functional and authentic.

Why choose a specialist plaster restoration company?

High-end building contractors benefit from working with a dedicated plaster restoration company because:

• Specialists have expertise in historic techniques like lath & plaster.

• They can replicate Georgian, Victorian, and Art Deco cornice designs with precision.

• They understand listed building compliance and conservation guidelines.

Choosing an experienced restoration team ensures flawless results and long-term durability.

Is plaster restoration worth the investment?

Plaster restoration is not just about aesthetics: it’s about safeguarding history. Whether it’s replicating Georgian cornice mouldings, restoring a plaster ceiling rose, or repairing lath and plaster, each task contributes to the preservation of heritage architecture.

By investing in plaster restoration, contractors can deliver projects that respect tradition while meeting modern demands. In the world of listed building restoration, this balance of authenticity and innovation is what sets exceptional projects apart.

How Ornamental Plasterwork Adds Warmth & Character To Homes

Autumn is the season when we appreciate the warm glow of cosy interiors as we snuggle on the sofa, and also prepare our homes for the sociable festive months ahead. For many homeowners, this is also the perfect moment to think about how to add charm and character to their living spaces. 

Ornamental plasterwork – whether through intricate ceiling roses, elegant coving, or bespoke features such as niches and arches – can be a timeless way to enrich your home and make it feel truly special.

Why autumn is a window of opportunity 

Autumn naturally encourages us to spend more time indoors, making it an ideal season for interior projects. Unlike the busier summer months, when attention is often outdoors, this time of year invites us to focus on creating interiors that feel welcoming and stylish. 

Many homeowners also choose to update their homes before the festive season, when entertaining and family gatherings place interiors firmly in the spotlight.

Introducing ornamental plasterwork is a relatively non-intrusive improvement – often requiring less disruption than large-scale renovations – but it delivers maximum impact. A beautifully designed cornice, for example, can instantly transform the way a room feels, adding elegance, depth, and architectural character.

The warmth of traditional craftsmanship

One of the most rewarding aspects of traditional plasterwork is the heritage behind it. Fibrous plaster techniques – which combine hessian, laths, and plaster of Paris – have been used for centuries to create decorative mouldings. 

While modern interiors often prioritise minimalism, the warmth and depth of traditional plaster finishes provide a counterbalance that feels particularly welcome in autumn.

Unlike mass-produced alternatives, handcrafted plasterwork carries with it a sense of authenticity and artistry. Every ceiling rose or cornice tells a story of careful design and traditional skill, connecting your home to the long history of British architecture.

Transforming living spaces with ornamental plasterwork

Here are some of the ways ornamental plasterwork can elevate your home this autumn:

Ceiling roses for seasonal charm

A ceiling rose is more than just a decorative surround for a light fitting – it’s a focal point that adds grandeur to any room. As autumn evenings are often defined by soft, warm lighting, pairing a ceiling rose with a statement chandelier or pendant light creates a striking effect. 

Whether you prefer a highly ornate Victorian-style design or a simpler, more contemporary piece, ceiling roses bring refinement to living and dining areas.

Coving and cornices for subtle elegance

Coving and cornices soften the transition between walls and ceilings, framing a room beautifully. They add structure and symmetry, drawing the eye upward and giving the illusion of greater height. 

In autumn, when rich wall colours like deep greens, warm neutrals, and burgundies are popular, plaster coving provides a crisp contrast that makes interiors look polished and complete.

Bespoke niches and arches

For those looking for something more personalised, bespoke plasterwork such as niches and arches can add unique character. A niche might hold seasonal decorations —  such as pumpkins in October or candles in December — or books, photographs or clocks, making it both functional and decorative. 

Arches, meanwhile, add architectural interest to hallways or living areas, making everyday spaces feel grander and more inviting.

Restoring heritage details

If your home is a period property, autumn is a wonderful time to restore or replace missing plaster details. A restored cornice or ceiling rose can return a room to its former glory, helping to preserve the home’s heritage while increasing its value.

Our personal approach

We believe that plasterwork should be as unique as the homes it enhances. That’s why we offer complimentary consultations to understand your vision and expectations. During a second visit, we bring samples and photographs to help you visualise how different designs will look in your space. 

Whether you are updating a single room with stock cornices or working alongside architects and designers on a bespoke residential project, our team combines craftsmanship with practicality. 

Bringing autumn inspiration into your home

Ornamental plasterwork brings texture, depth, and a sense of permanence that makes interiors feel timeless and welcoming. Whether you’re preparing your home for the festive season, restoring original details in a listed property, or seeking bespoke features, plasterwork can help you create spaces that feel warm, elegant, and truly personal.

Cornices To Ceiling Roses: A Guide To London’s Plasterwork

If you walk down almost any street in London, you’ll find that you are surrounded by buildings that reflect centuries of architectural history. This doesn’t just mean the iconic symbols of the capital, such as Westminster Abbey or the Houses of Parliament, but also the “ordinary” townhouses, terraces and villas. 

These buildings, particularly those of Georgian, Edwardian and Victorian vintage, help to define the character of the city. Beyond their handsome exteriors, many also contain beautiful original plasterwork such as cornies, ceiling roses, and panel mouldings. 

Here’s a detailed look at these heritage features, and why it’s so important to conserve and maintain them properly. 

Cornices: defining the ceiling line

Cornices (often called coving) are one of the most recognisable plaster features in period homes. Running along the junction between walls and ceilings, cornices soften hard lines while adding visual rhythm and detail to a room.

• Georgian cornices tend to be restrained and classical, often inspired by Greek and Roman motifs.

• Victorian cornices are more elaborate, with bold, heavy mouldings reflecting the confidence of the era.

• Edwardian cornices strike a balance, leaning towards lighter and more refined patterns.

In many London homes, cornices have been damaged or even removed over the years, especially during mid-20th-century renovations when ornate detail fell out of fashion. Today, homeowners and designers are rediscovering their importance. 

Whether simple Edwardian mouldings or highly decorative Georgian plaster cornices, reinstating these features can completely transform a space, restoring its original proportions and elegance.

Ceiling roses: the centrepiece of a room

Ceiling roses are among the most celebrated plaster details. Traditionally used to frame chandeliers or pendant lighting, they act as a focal point in any room.

• Georgian roses were often delicate and understated, with clean floral or geometric motifs.

• Victorian roses grew in scale and complexity, featuring intricate layers of foliage, scrolls, and even fruit.

• Edwardian roses moved back towards simplicity but retained a refined, elegant charm.

In London’s grand townhouses, ceiling roses were a status symbol, demonstrating craftsmanship and wealth. Today, they remain a favourite feature for those restoring period properties. Even in modern interiors, a ceiling rose adds instant character and architectural depth.

Corbels: decorative support with impact

Often found beneath arches, beams, or shelves, plaster corbels provide both decorative interest and practical support. Their designs range from simple scrolls to richly carved faces and foliage. In Gothic-inspired plasterwork, corbels often take on dramatic, medieval-inspired shapes, while in Victorian houses they lean towards naturalistic detailing.

Although they’re less common than cornices or ceiling roses, corbels make a striking statement when restored or reinstated. For those looking to bring subtle but distinctive period charm into their homes, corbels are a perfect choice.

Panel mouldings: framing walls with style

Panel mouldings (sometimes called dado or picture rails when used in certain positions) were widely used across London’s historic homes. They divide walls into sections, frame fireplaces, or add symmetry and proportion to large rooms.

In Georgian houses, panel mouldings reflected classical architecture, often mirroring the strict proportions of doors and windows. Victorians used them more decoratively, sometimes pairing them with rich wallpapers and deep colours. Edwardians simplified them again, favouring lighter, airy interiors.

Restoring or installing panel mouldings is one of the most effective ways to bring authenticity back to a period property. They add depth and interest to plain walls while honouring the original style of the building.

Why restoration matters

London’s historic plasterwork is more than just decoration: it’s part of the city’s cultural and architectural identity. Each feature carries the craftsmanship of a particular era, linking today’s homeowners to centuries of design heritage.

Unfortunately, plasterwork is vulnerable. Damp, structural movement, poor repairs, or simple neglect can lead to cracks, breaks, or complete loss of detail. This is where skilled plaster restoration becomes essential. At our workshop, we carefully assess each feature, repairing where possible and only reinstating when necessary. 

With a large stock range of cornices, ceiling roses, corbels, and panel mouldings, we ensure restorations remain faithful to the original style.

Bringing period plasterwork back to life

Whether you’re a homeowner restoring a Victorian townhouse, an architect working on a Georgian terrace, or an interior designer seeking authentic detail for a modern project, plasterwork can transform a space. From subtle coving to grand decorative ceilings, these features connect us with London’s architectural past while elevating interiors for the future.

Why September Is The Perfect Month For Plaster Restoration

September is a time when many homeowners start to think about making improvements to their living space, as children return to school and the first hints of autumn are in the air. If you live in a period property, then it could be an ideal time to consider plaster restoration or replication work. 

Why autumn is the ideal season for restoration

During the spring and summer, attention on home maintenance and improvements naturally focuses on the outside space: gardening, exterior painting, patio cleaning and so on. However, the evenings are now gradually drawing in, and attention turns indoors. 

The weather is still mild enough to have windows and doors open while work takes place and fresh plaster dries out, minimising any inconvenience. Many homeowners will also be keen for interiors to be looking their very best in time for Christmas, when they may be welcoming family and friends. 

Beautifully restored heritage features such as cornicing or a ceiling rose can add the finishing touch to an interior decor refresh, helping to draw the space together and add refinement and character. This provides a beautiful backdrop to cosy autumnal nights in, or larger festive gatherings. 

The importance of preserving original features

Original plasterwork is not only decorative: it’s part of the story of your home. Each cornice, ceiling rose, or panel moulding tells us something about the period in which the building was created.

For instance:

• Gothic plasterwork often featured pointed arches and intricate tracery.

• Georgian interiors favoured refined, symmetrical cornices with classical influence.

• Victorian design embraced bold, ornate mouldings and grand ceiling roses.

• Edwardian styles softened slightly, with lighter, more delicate detailing.

Losing these features through neglect or poor-quality renovation means losing an irreplaceable piece of heritage. Restoration allows us to maintain the authenticity of the building while ensuring it can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Furthermore, if you live in a listed building, (a structure deemed to have special architectural or historic interest) you will need to seek permission to carry out any repairs or renovations. It’s likely that if permission is granted, you’ll need to make sure that the work is carried out by specialists who will use like-for-like materials wherever possible.

They should also have the skill and experience to ensure that the restoration is sympathetic to the original style and era of the building. 

Working with specialists

Plaster restoration is both an art and a science. It requires a deep understanding of historic styles, as well as technical knowledge of traditional materials and methods. At Ovolo, we pride ourselves on being plaster restoration specialists, and no project is too big or too small.

We regularly work alongside architects, interior designers, and construction firms, ensuring that restoration is sympathetic to the building’s period. Equally, we work directly with homeowners who want to bring character and detail back to their rooms. 

Our extensive stock range of cornices, corbels, ceiling roses, and mouldings means we can match existing features or advise on the most appropriate design for your property’s era.

September: a time for fresh starts

September is often a sweet spot to carry out a project. With the distractions of summer holidays behind us and the weather still clement, many people feel ready to invest in their homes. The cooler, darker months ahead highlight the importance of interiors. Plaster mouldings can add depth, texture, and elegance to spaces that might otherwise feel flat.

By beginning a plaster restoration project in September, you allow ample time for:

• Assessment and consultation – understanding the condition of your plasterwork.

• Design and planning – deciding whether to restore, match, or reinstate features.

• Completion before Christmas – ensuring your interiors are at their best for the festive season.

No project too big or small

From grand country homes to modest terraced houses, every property can benefit from the reinstatement of plaster details. Even a single ceiling rose can elevate a room, creating a focal point and bringing in the craftsmanship of another age. 

Larger projects, such as restoring entire decorative ceilings or reinstating missing cornices throughout a property, can utterly transform the feel of a home. 

If you’ve been considering plaster restoration, there is no better time to begin: take stock of your interiors this September and identify the areas that deserve attention. Whether it’s a subtle repair or a complete reinstatement of period mouldings, investing in your property’s character will pay dividends in beauty, authenticity, and value. 

What Is A Cornice And How Can I Use Them In My Home?

Cornices are often misunderstood and people get confused between a cornice, an architrave and coving. We’re going to demystify cornices and explore the different styles to help you work out how best to incorporate them into your home’s design. 

So, let’s start with the obvious question: what is a cornice? 

What is a cornice? 

A cornice is the uppermost feature, usually on a wall, that projects out. Although they are often referred to in interior design, where they sit at the top of the wall where it meets the ceiling, they are also used in exterior architecture. 

In this instance, a cornice is usually found beneath the roof line. They are often decorative, but their true purpose is to direct rainfall and water away from the building. 

Cornices are usually moulded to add aesthetic appeal and that means they come in many different designs, which we’ll get into shortly.

How do cornices differ from coving and architraves? 

In interior decor, aside from looking pretty, a cornice’s primary purpose is to hide the join between the ceiling and the top of the wall. A cornice and coving serve the same purpose. In fact, coving is simply a term for a plain cornice – in other words one that doesn’t have any moulding or decorative features. 

An architrave looks similar to a cornice but serves a different purpose. It is fitted above any opening in the room, usually a door or window. Sometimes it is also used to describe the vertical, as well as horizontal mouldings that surround the door or window.

The biggest difference between an architrave and cornice or coving is that the former is normally made of wood, whereas the latter two are made from plaster. 

What different designs are there for cornices?

Cornices have been used throughout architectural history, dating from the time of classical Greek and Roman society, which means there are a huge variety of designs that cornices can take.

As we’ve discussed, the simple, smooth designs are generally referred to as coving and this is what you can expect to find in most modern homes. However, if you have a period property that still retains many of its original features, chances are you’ll have decorative cornicing in your home. 

The following are some of the most common cornice styles in UK homes.

1. Victorian cornices
   Many Victorian-era cornices have designs featuring leaves and plants. Vines, fruits and the distinctive acanthus leaf are all common motifs in Victorian-era cornices. In fact, the swirling acanthus leaf design was used on many products and pieces of furniture during the Victorian era. 

   
   The Victorians also revived the popularity of gothic design, so you may find that a gothic cornice is an appropriate option if your home is from this period.

1. Georgian cornices
   Georgian-era cornices adopted a variety of styles, including those inspired by nature. However, they also used modillion designs, which refers to an ornate bracket that would have been used to both support and accentuate the cornice’s design.
   Modillion block cornices can also be much simpler though, with clean lines rather than a lot of intricate detail.
   

2. Art deco cornices
   This period in the 1920s has its own distinctive design aesthetic that can be mirrored in cornices. They typically have clean lines and feature simplified patterns using geometric shapes.
   

3. Egg and dart cornices
   This cornice design is so popular that it spans eras and has been used consistently in interior design for centuries. It is characterised by a rounded oval shape framed by “darts” on either side.

   
   Egg and dart designs are relatively simple, yet elegant, which goes some way towards explaining their enduring popularity.

What are cornices used for beyond decoration?

Although they are predominantly decorative, cornices have various other uses when they are included in interior design. Among them is to help make a room appear larger. They do this by bouncing light around a space. Making a space lighter often makes it appear bigger than it truly is.

Cornices can also offer acoustic advantages. Their presence can help to absorb sounds in a room and prevent echoes, particularly in large spaces like halls or ballrooms. As we mentioned earlier, one of their main uses is to hide the abrupt transition from walls to ceilings. 

This means a cornice can also be used to conceal cracks and you could even use a cornice to hide wiring for lights in a modern home. 

Can you restore a damaged cornice?

Yes, for the most part it is possible to restore cornices that have been damaged. If you have original period features in your home these can add value to the property, not to mention make it feel more unique, so it’s understandable that you’d want to take care of them. 

The price of a restoration project will always be bespoke, because it depends on the level of damage and what’s required to bring a cornice back to its best. 

In some cases, you may simply want to remove paint that has been applied over the years and bring your cornice back to its original glory. It’s important to use the proper technique and products to do so, however, otherwise you risk damaging the original plasterwork that lies beneath. 

For instance, we typically use a combination of a chemical stripper and high-pressured dry steam to lift paint and other dirt off of old cornices without causing too much damage. However, it’s important to note that after the layers of old paint have been removed, remedial work is often needed to fully restore a period cornice. 

Ultimately, cornices have the power to really elevate an interior and are an excellent way to ensure that you are staying true to your home’s overall design, be it Georgian, Victorian or from a more modern era. 

If your property is only decades, rather than centuries, old, you may find that plain coving is most appropriate. However, changing this for more ornate cornices is a good way to redesign your interior if you would like to give your property a different look.

Decorative Cornicing: From Georgian Elegance To Modern Style

If you are familiar with period properties, or perhaps are lucky enough to live in one, you might have noticed that the interiors feature decorative cornicing. This is the band of plaster moulding that runs along the top of the wall, where it meets the ceiling join. It provides a pleasing finish and helps to draw the space together. 

However, cornicing is more than just a way of finishing a ceiling: each era has its own distinctive style and craftsmanship, from the grandeur of Georgian homes to the bold curves of Art Deco and the sleek lines of contemporary interiors. Here’s a look at how cornicing has evolved over time, why it remains an important feature in homes today. 

Georgian elegance (1714–1837)

Georgian interiors are renowned for their balance, symmetry, and elegance, and cornicing played a vital role in achieving this refined aesthetic. Georgian cornice mouldings typically featured classical motifs inspired by Greek and Roman architecture: for example, acanthus leaves, dentils, and egg-and-dart patterns.

These designs weren’t just decorative; they reflected the ideals of order and harmony that defined the period. In stately homes, cornices were often elaborate, while in more modest properties, they were kept simple but still finely crafted.

Today, restoring a Georgian plaster cornice requires specialist skill. Many homeowners of listed properties choose to replicate damaged mouldings to preserve authenticity, ensuring the original proportions and detail are respected.

Victorian grandeur (1837–1901)

As the Victorian era ushered in industrialisation and mass production, plasterwork became more accessible to the growing middle classes. Victorian cornices tended to be bolder and heavier than their Georgian predecessors, often featuring floral patterns, scrolls, and layers of detail.

Ceiling roses also became popular in this era, providing a decorative focal point around chandeliers and gas lights. In grand townhouses, you’d often find richly ornamented cornicing paired with high ceilings and heavy drapes, creating interiors designed to impress.

For homeowners today, Victorian cornice restoration can dramatically enhance the character of a room, especially when paired with other original features such as fireplaces and sash windows.

The bold lines of Art Deco (1920s–1930s)

Fast forward to the early 20th century, and the plasterwork aesthetic had shifted once again. Art Deco design brought bold, geometric shapes and sweeping curves into interior architecture. Cornicing in this period was less about intricate detailing and more about making a strong, modern statement.

In Art Deco homes, plaster cornices often echoed the streamlined forms of the era – zigzags, sunbursts, and chevrons were all common motifs. Though less ornate than Georgian or Victorian styles, they carried a sense of drama and confidence.

Restoring or replicating Art Deco plaster cornices can be particularly rewarding for anyone looking to bring back the original glamour of the 1920s and 30s.

Contemporary cornicing: minimalist refinement

In modern homes, decorative cornicing continues to play a role – though the look is often more understated. Contemporary ceiling cornices typically focus on clean lines and subtle shadows rather than elaborate patterns. This simplicity allows them to complement minimalist interiors while still adding depth and refinement to a space.

For architects and homeowners designing new builds or renovations, contemporary cornicing provides a way to blend traditional craftsmanship with modern design principles. It’s proof that cornices are not a relic of the past, but a versatile design feature that can adapt to any era.

The role of restoration and replication

One reason cornicing has survived across so many centuries is the ability to restore and replicate plasterwork. Skilled plaster specialists can take impressions of surviving mouldings and recreate them with remarkable accuracy. This is particularly important in listed building restoration, where maintaining historical integrity is essential.

Equally, for homeowners who want to add period character to a modern space, replicated cornice mouldings offer a way to introduce elegance without compromising on structural integrity.

Why cornicing still matters today

Cornices are more than decorative flourishes: they serve as a bridge between wall and ceiling, softening the transition and creating a sense of proportion within a room. Whether ornate or minimalist, they add layers of visual interest that elevate interiors.

For period property owners, well-preserved plasterwork is often a key selling point, while for those designing contemporary homes, a simple cornice can add architectural distinction. In both cases, cornicing continues to be a symbol of craftsmanship and attention to detail.