When renovating or building a home, the plaster finish you choose has a major impact on the overall style, atmosphere, and design quality of your interiors. While plasterboard provides the foundation, it’s the finishing details that determine whether a space feels minimalist, contemporary, or architecturally refined.
Three of the most popular finishes are Square Set, Shadow line, and Shadow Gap. Each offers a distinct look, with advantages depending on your budget, style preference, and the type of project you’re working on.
Square Set Finish
The square set finish is one of the cleanest and most cost-effective plastering methods. Instead of adding a decorative cornice, the plasterboard ceiling meets the plasterboard wall at a sharp 90-degree angle. The result is a crisp, seamless junction that works beautifully in modern interiors.
Pros of square set ceilings:
Minimalist appearance that enhances clean lines
Affordable and efficient to install
Works well in both small and large spaces
Best suited for:
Modern homes and apartments
Open-plan living areas
Ceiling renovations where a fresh, streamlined look is desired
Shadow line Finish
A shadow line finish introduces subtle sophistication by creating a recessed line where the wall meets the ceiling. This effect is achieved using a special metal trim, giving the ceiling depth and an architectural edge. Shadow line plastering pairs perfectly with gyprock ceilings and recessed lighting, making it a favorite for designers.
Pros of shadow line plastering:
Sleek and stylish, with architectural appeal
Hides small imperfections at wall-to-ceiling junctions
Enhances LED lighting features for a premium effect
Best suited for:
Designer homes and luxury apartments
Commercial office spaces
Contemporary interiors with lighting design elements
Shadow Gap Finish
The shadow gap finish, also called negative detail, creates a wider recessed gap (typically 10–20mm) between the wall and ceiling. This produces a striking floating effect that gives interiors a bold, luxurious feel. It’s highly customizable, making it perfect for feature rooms or high-end homes.
Pros of shadow gap plastering:
Creates a premium floating effect
Highly customizable for unique interior design concepts
Works beautifully with both modern plasterboard ceilings and ornamental cornices
Best suited for:
High-end residential projects
Feature rooms such as living areas or master bedrooms
Bold architectural and designer spaces
Choosing the Right Plaster Finish
The right plaster finish depends on your budget, design goals, and style preferences. Each option offers a different impact:
Square set plasterboard ceilings are ideal for cost-effective, clean finishes.
Shadow line finishes add subtle elegance and architectural depth.
Shadow gap ceilings create a luxurious, floating design statement.
With professional plastering services, your choice of finish can completely transform a space, elevating it from standard to sophisticated and modern. Whether you’re after minimalism, sleek lines, or a bold architectural detail, there’s a plaster finish that will bring your vision to life.
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