Few age-old decorative traditions continue to be as prevalent in interior design as plasterwork – its roots can be traced back to ancient civilizations. It's not uncommon today for architectural designers to go to great lengths to carefully restore pre-existing detailing in heritage properties, or commission a specialist to recreate the style in newer, unadorned spaces.
Visually, it's easy to see why – the sculptural element adds depth and interest, as well as, of course, prettiness. Yet its functional value also has a lot to answer for; wall paneling and plasterwork can break up swathes of otherwise intimidatingly empty and flat wall space, it can demarcate different 'zones', and it can inject a property with a feeling of grandeur.
