How Surface Finishes Help Achieve a Modern Aesthetic

In many ways, modern architectural and interior design is defined by the wide range of customisation options available for surface finishes. Whether designing sleek interiors or bold exteriors, the right finish can transform architectural elements into stunning focal points. From floors to ceilings, walls to outdoor spaces, surface finishes provide the tools to create specific architectural moments that evolve as you move through a space. These finishes shape the aesthetic and influence the tactile experience, giving each surface its own personality and allowing for a cohesive, enduring design that reflects both style and substance.

In this blog, we will explore how surface finishes assist in creating a standout architectural finish, how you can use them to elevate your architectural moments with wall treatments and materiality, and how Revelare can help you bring your vision to life.

What Is an Architectural Finish?

An architectural finish is a type of surface treatment that is fixed to the main structural elements of a building. This can either be on horizontal surfaces such as floors and ceilings or vertical surfaces such as block and stud walls, and can be applied to both the exterior and interior of a building.

Architectural finishes differ from a decorative finish, which may not be fixed like an architectural finish. However, there is a decorative element to this finish, as they are typically applied to exposed surfaces which make up part of the overall design of the building.

Creating Architectural Moments

Turning material finishes and existing elements into a strong architectural moment is a daunting task with much to consider. They must cohere with the existing elements to support them, but because architectural finishes are fixed and not easily replaced like a decorative finish, they must fulfil a duty to be timeless and have a long-lasting aesthetic. For modern aesthetics, this means being careful not to fall into the trap of trends and instead aim for something that will last aesthetically for years and decades to come as well as in terms of durability.

At Revelare, we create finishes that defy trends. Our antique bronze finish allows you to harness the rich brightness of this classic metal, while our brass finish makes this vivid yellowish hue while retaining the metal’s unique hygienic qualities. Copper is a relatively soft metal and typically not a practical option, but our copper coating is a fitting substitute that is much more structurally resistant, allowing you to enjoy its rich orange-red colour which evokes an atmosphere of aged luxury. Meanwhile, our bespoke corten finish offers a deep, wooden feel that works fantastically on horizontal surfaces not just for their aesthetic but their weather-resistant qualities.

Another unique consideration to factor in an architectural finish is that in some applications, the finishes can contribute to the structural weight of the building and need to be included in the structural calculations of the design and detailing. However, our artisan team cleverly uses a thin veneer of real material mixed with additives and a binder, meaning that the surface is lightweight enough to have a negligible impact on the structural integrity of the building.

Wall Treatments

Wall treatments are a major aspect of architectural design, and today, there is a growing interest in both modern and traditional finishes. Externally, patterns and embossed metal claddings in materials like aluminium, copper and titanium are particularly popular, offering a contemporary, industrial aesthetic. At the same time, traditional brick and natural stone cladding is making a comeback, valued for its durability and low maintenance requirements.

At Revelare, we take these trends further by combining real materials with innovative painting techniques. Our wall treatments mix actual metals into a thin veneer finish, making them more cost-effective while maintaining their quality. This approach also helps protect against degradation, enhancing the lifespan of both interior and exterior walls.

Adding Materiality to Modern Spaces

Personalising surface finishes is not just about colour – they encompass texture, light reflectivity, and how these elements shape a room’s atmosphere. A high-gloss finish, such as our lacquer finish, can make a small room feel expansive, while a matt finish lends intimacy to a larger space. Our matt and satin finishes in particular offer a low-gloss aesthetic, projecting a sense of calm elegance, and they are also highly practical, being easier to clean than high-glow finishes, making them more suitable for high-traffic areas.

There are also more philosophical considerations about the nature of your design. In today’s world, people are drawn towards authenticity. They no longer want spaces that feel sterile or overly manufactured. Instead, there’s a craving for real textures, for the randomness and imperfections that come with natural materials.

Finishes such as microcement and liquid metal perfectly align with this desire. Our microcement finishes combine cement, line, gypsum and clay to create a polished and tough-wearing surface that resists water and chemicals. It offers a raw, industrial look that is both minimalist and tactile, perfect for modern spaces that require a sense of edge.

Meanwhile, our liquid metal finishes allow you to apply currently popular design trends such as aluminium and stainless steel onto an object or space for an eye-catching feature. Whether applied to ceilings, walls or furniture, these finishes bring a refined yet rugged beauty, embodying our penchant for luxury and innovation.

Discover the Artistry of Bespoke Surface Finishes with Revelare

Every surface tells a story, and our custom surface finishes bring these stories to life. Our bespoke coatings are a tactile, resilient finish that adds richness and depth to any space. Our team of talented artisans work closely with you from the initial concept to the final reveal, ensuring that every detail aligns with your vision. Have a concept in mind? We’re here to help. Contact us today for more details or request a sample to see how we can help make your project something extraordinary.