INTERIOR DESIGN FINISHING

Introduction: What Are Interior Finishes?

Interior design finishing focus on the final touches and materials that create the desired

aesthetic and functionality of a space, encompassing elements like wall finishes, flooring, trim,

and lighting, while considering factors like durability, maintenance, and cost.

Interior finishes are used in the last stages of the manufacturing or construction process.

They form the final surface of any element. The purpose is to protect this element from

corrosion, water, abrasion, frost or impact, and/or be decorative.

Some elements are self-finished. That is, the surface is part of the material that the

element is made from.

The term “finishes” tends to refer to internal surfaces, but finishes can also be applied to

external elements. However, in this article, we will be focusing on interior finishes.

These can be applied dry or wet. Application might involve layering. For example, a

primer or undercoat might be applied to a wall before the final coating of paint.

It is important to note, however, that there is some overlap in this categorization with

various other building components. Furthermore, other classifications may put some of these

items in other categories. As an example, stone may be considered a part of the floor

construction, and plaster may be considered a lining, not a finish.

Regardless, an accurate translation of the designer’s intention in your interior

construction drawings is critical for good finishes.

When it comes to interior design, your choices in finishes are not necessarily easy to pick.

Some of the most common influencing factors are:

 Durability

 Corrosion and weather resistance

 Expected life

 Cleaning and other maintenance requirements

 Appearance (gloss, silk, matte, etc.)

 Color

 Safety

 Ease of application

 Availability

 Cost

 Environmental impact

1. Durability

 The longevity of a finish is crucial, especially in high-traffic areas.

 Materials like ceramic tiles, high-pressure laminates, and epoxy coatings are chosen for

their wear resistance.

 In residential spaces, finishes may prioritize comfort over extreme durability.

2. Corrosion and Weather Resistance

where exposure to chemicals and moisture is common.

 Materials such as stainless steel, anodized aluminum, and waterproof paints help protect

against corrosion.

3. Expected Life

 Some finishes last longer than others. For example, natural stone can last for decades,

while wallpaper may need to be replaced every few years.

 Consideration of life expectancy helps balance aesthetics with long-term cost-

effectiveness.

4. Cleaning and Maintenance Requirements

 Easy-to-clean surfaces (e.g., glossy tiles, laminated surfaces) are ideal for spaces like

kitchens and hospitals.

 Porous materials, like untreated wood and natural stone, may require sealing or regular

upkeep.

5. Appearance (Gloss, Silk, Matte, etc.)

 The finish can dramatically affect the look and feel of a space.

 Glossy surfaces reflect more light, making rooms appear brighter, while matte finishes

provide a softer, more subdued aesthetic.

 Semi-gloss and silk finishes strike a balance between sheen and practicality.

6. Color
  The choice of color influences mood, perception of space, and overall design harmony.

 Lighter colors make rooms feel larger and more open, while darker tones create a cozy or

dramatic effect.

 Color psychology plays a role—blues and greens promote calmness, while reds and

yellows create energy.

7. Safety

 Some finishes must comply with safety regulations, especially in commercial and public

spaces.

 Fire-resistant coatings, slip-resistant flooring, and low-VOC paints contribute to a safer

environment.

 Non-toxic materials are essential in healthcare and childcare settings.

8. Ease of Application

 Some finishes require professional installation (e.g., Venetian plaster, epoxy coatings),

while others are DIY-friendly (e.g., peel-and-stick wallpaper).

 The complexity of application impacts labor costs and project timelines.

9. Availability

 The accessibility of certain materials affects design choices.

 Local sourcing can reduce costs and support sustainability.

 Unique or imported finishes may have longer lead times or higher expenses.

10. Cost
  Budget constraints often dictate finish selections.

 High-end materials like marble and exotic woods are expensive, whereas cost-effective

alternatives like engineered stone and laminate provide similar aesthetics at a lower price.

 Long-term maintenance costs should also be considered.

11. Environmental Impact

 Sustainable and eco-friendly finishes are increasingly prioritized.

 Recycled materials, low-VOC paints, and energy-efficient manufacturing processes

contribute to green building certifications (e.g., LEED).

 The carbon footprint and biodegradability of materials also play a role in environmentally

conscious design.

12. Functionality & Purpose of Space

 The intended use of the space dictates finish choices.

 High-traffic commercial areas need durable, easy-to-clean finishes, while residential

spaces prioritize aesthetics and comfort.

 Specialized environments (e.g., hospitals, labs) require antimicrobial finishes.

13. Texture & Tactility

 The feel of a finish affects user experience.

 Soft, warm finishes (e.g., cork flooring, velvet wallpaper) create a cozy ambiance.

 Hard, smooth surfaces (e.g., polished concrete, glass) give a sleek, modern feel but may

feel cold.
14. Compatibility with Other Materials

 Some finishes pair well with specific materials.

 For example, matte finishes complement natural wood, while high-gloss finishes work

well with modern metals and glass.

 Material compatibility ensures a cohesive design.

15. Trends & Client Preferences

 Market trends influence material selection.

 Clients may prefer classic finishes (e.g., hardwood floors) or trendy ones (e.g., terrazzo,

fluted wood paneling).

 Social media and design influencers play a role in shaping preferences.

16. Regulatory & Building Code Compliance

 Fire-resistant materials, anti-slip coatings, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)

compliance are necessary in certain settings.

 Regulations may dictate finish choices in commercial buildings, hospitals, and schools.

Top Choices for Interior Finishes

1. Paint Finishes
 When it comes to interior paint finishes, the finish is as important as the color, but this is

an element that tends to get overlooked, even in hospitality projects. A high gloss wall paint will

give you a totally different effect from an eggshell finish.

Paint finishes are available in oil-based (alkyd) and latex paints. Most people prefer latex

paints because they are easier to clean and don’t give off the same levels of unpleasant fumes as

oil-based paints.

Do note that some paint manufacturers may use different terminology for the same finish.

For example, they may refer to a “glossy” finish as “high-gloss”.

Types of paint finishes:

Eggshell finish: As the name suggests, this paint finish has a low sheen similar to that of

an eggshell. The eggshell finish works well in low-traffic areas that are less susceptible to dirt

build-up. It cleans better than flat enamel or flat paint, though it is still relatively hard to clean.

Eggshell finishes are popular in family homes, since they help to hide flaws in walls.

Flat finish: This finish has a fully matte surface and a somewhat chalky feel. It is useful

if you want to cover up cracks, bumps or other blemishes, and is often used for interior walls and

ceilings. However, flat finishes are difficult to clean, so you might want to avoid them if you

have children or pets.

Flat enamel finish: Good for guest bedrooms and powder rooms. Flat enamel has a

matte finish, but it forms a bit of a film as it dries. It also holds up nicely to cleaning on occasion.
 Semi-gloss finish: Semi-gloss is often used on kitchen cabinets, bathroom cabinets, trim,

and doors. It is easy to clean, and has a subtle shine. Due to its high durability, it can be used

both outdoors and indoors.

Satin finish: This is a somewhat glossy finish, with a smooth look. Often it is used for

trim, ceilings, doors and windows, but it can be used on walls as well. Use it in areas that get

more traffic, or in kitchens, family rooms, children’s rooms, or bathrooms.

High-gloss finish: As the name suggests, this finish is very glossy, with an almost

reflective quality. It looks similar to plastic or enamel. It is becoming a popular choice for a more

dramatic look for furniture, trim and cabinets in contemporary and formal settings.

Before selecting your interior paint finish, consider the factors that will affect the way the finish

will appear to the naked eye and the ambience it will create. For example, flatter finishes are

better at hiding wall textures, while high-gloss finishes will help light to bounce across the

room.

2. Marble Finishes

Marble is often used in backsplashes and bathrooms. It can come in many colours.

Frequent cleaning is required, since marble is sleek and shiny, and it may not be suited to colder

climates. However, it can last for many years with proper sealing.

There are various types of marble finishes that you can use according to your project’s

needs. Broadly, there are four types of marble floor and tile finishes: polished, tumbled, brushed

and honed.
 Polished marble: This sleek, lustrous finish is highly popular. It lends an elegant,

sumptuous look to any space, works well in high-visibility areas such as living rooms or foyers,

and suits both traditional and contemporary settings. The high gloss of this marble comes from

finishing with diamond discs, and other polishes and buffers.

Tumbled marble: This type of marble is tumbled in a drum that contains abrasives such

as sand or rocks, which create tiny chips and holes. As a result, tumbled marble looks weathered

but feels smooth, and acts like distressed furniture, adding warmth to spaces. It works well as

floor tiles for bathrooms or as a backsplash.

Brushed marble: To achieve the brushed look, manufacturers have the marble surface

gently brushed until it becomes textured. A brushed finish has an aged, natural look. However, it

needs to be frequently sealed to prevent staining, as it is more porous than polished marble.

Furthermore, it requires routine vacuuming or sweeping, since dust tends to collect on it.

Honed marble: Want that old-world charm in your space? Honed marble may be a good

choice for you. It has a buttery, velvety feel. While it stands up well to scratches, it soaks up

wine or other drink spills, as it is more porous than other finishes. Use honed marble for

countertops, backsplashes, and flooring for high-traffic areas such as passages and living rooms.

3. Decorative Stone Finishes

This finish is best left to specialists to install. Natural stone finishes can be used in

various ways, such as fire pits, decorative accents, stairs or steps, and retaining walls.

Natural, decorative stone brings a rustic and classy look to any space. It’s great for

hospitality and “high-end” projects. Take a look at some of the latest stone trends you can add in

your interiors.
Here are some types of natural stone finishes you can choose from:

Sandblasted: Small craters highlight the color of the stone. Often used for exterior

spaces like patios.

Leathered: The stone is textured to appear less glossy. Smooth and slip-resistant.

Honed: Smooth texture, often used in high-traffic areas like stairs and floors.

Flamed: Rough and textured, often used for outdoors.

Polished: Less susceptible to stains, often used for flooring and walls.
Interior rendering with decorative stone by BluEntCAD

4. Wallpaper Finishes

Wallpaper can add a lot of character to any space, especially if you want to go quaint or old-

fashioned.

 You can choose from paper, vinyl or even 3D photo wallpaper. Vinyl is suited to the

kitchen, moisture-proof wallpaper to the bathroom, and washable and lightweight

wallpaper to children’s rooms.

glossier finish. 100% paper wall coverings provide that classic, matte look that many

people want.

 Paper wallpaper backing will always require glue, as it is unpasted.

 Non-woven wallpaper is another coveted option. It is a combination of natural fibers and

vinyl and is more flexible, breathable, and durable than paper wallpaper.

 However, some non-woven wallpapers are made only from natural and/or synthetic plant

fibers and contain no vinyl.

The options for wallpaper are endless – and it doesn’t help that, in the US, wallpaper was never

standardized. That is, each factory manufactured wallpaper in its own way, with its own standard

of measurement. This is why you see so many roll sizes, such as single, double and triple rolls.

Before you start on your project, you should know that some spaces, such as rooms with high

humidity like kitchens and bathrooms, are generally not suited for wallpaper.

5. Hardwood Finishes

Hardwood provides a timeless look and elegance that has the potential to fit any style.

For a more traditional look, you may gravitate towards ash, mahogany, walnut or oak. For a

contemporary look, consider sapele, maple or tigerwood. And if rustic is your choice, there’s

cherry or hickory.
While hardwood is resistant to scratches and dents, it can have problems with moisture. To

prevent hardwood from deteriorating prematurely, it requires a protective sealant. Every few

years, regular sealing is needed.

Wood is a highly popular finish and material for architectural projects, so you may also be

interested in knowing more about the types of wood molding and the best kinds of wood for

furniture.

6. Carpet Finishes

Carpets are relatively easy to install and provide good insulation, which can help keep power

costs down. They are a good way to add warmth to a room and are especially suited to colder

climates. You can extent their life with steam cleaning and vacuuming, but they will need to be

replaced about four or five times in a thirty-year timespan.

Trouble can pop up if there are untrained pets around, or you don’t take care of the pests that like

to live in carpets, such as fleas and ticks. They can also cause problems for people with

respiratory ailments, since it holds dust and various other allergens. And since they retain

moisture, mold can grow.

Consider some of the types of carpet fibers for finishes:

 Wool: Considered premier carpeting. The only natural fiber made into carpets. Stain-

resistant, durable and eco-friendly.

 Nylon: The most popular kind of carpet fiber. Holds up well against wear and is durable.

However, it is not very stain-resistant, so some kinds include stain-resistant treatment.

Not as comfortable to walk on as nylon, but tougher.

 Triexta: Similar in appearance to nylon, but much softer. Repels moisture and stains.

 Acrylic: Not widely available, but used as an inexpensive alternative to wool.

7. Tile Finishes

Tile is well suited to kitchens and bathrooms, whether they are in a home, hotel, or government

building. This is because it is resistant to many issues such as moisture and temperature.

Some types of tiles you can choose from include ceramic, granite, porcelain, marble and glass.

Each one has its own unique properties and will suit different spaces. For example, ceramic tiles

are often used in bathrooms, kitchens and front entrances as they are durable and affordable. In

contrast, glass tiles tend to be used as backsplashes or shower tiles, as they are stain resistant but

prone to chipping.

To get a good idea of your options for tiles, read about the latest tile trends. For the best, most

accurate results, you can use tile mockup designs or tile shop drawings.
Flooring stone shop drawing by BluEntCAD

8. Vinyl Finishes

Do you want variety while also being cost-conscious? Vinyl is for you. It comes in a wide range

of colors and patterns. Vinyl can retain its look for a long time as long as it is not in a high-traffic

area, such as the kitchen or bathroom.

Vinyl is often used for flooring, and vinyl flooring refers to both luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) and

vinyl roll flooring (also called vinyl sheet flooring).

hardwood. Roll flooring is fibreglass-cushion-backed, and comes in large, flexible sheets. Vinyl

floors can last between 5 and 25 years, depending on quality, installation, and maintenance.

However, it is important to note that vinyl releases harmful gases and VOCs that contribute to

issues with air quality. It can also rip with sharp objects and can be difficult to remove once

glued down.

Furthermore, it cannot support high temperatures, and tends to discolor and fade with extended

exposure to UV. For this reason, vinyl finishes are generally not used in spaces with a lot of

direct sunlight, such as balconies.

If it is within your budget and available in your area, we would recommend going for one of the

other finishes.

Conclusion

With the correct interior finishes, you can heighten the aesthetics of your space, extend the life of

certain elements, improve brand visibility, increase resale value, and reduce energy costs. We

hope this article has given you a good starting point.