Decorating with Microcement

Microcement is an increasingly popular design choice for achieving a flawless industrial aesthetic in interior design projects. This is because decorating with microcement offers a practical alternative to traditional concrete, with very similar results. Read on to discover more about microcement

The benefits of Microcement

Microcement can be applied to virtually any surface. It is common as a surface finish to give walls a decorative effect. It is also a versatile and cost-effective alternative to polished concrete or floors. Here, it has numerous advantages over conventional concrete, mainly because it doesn’t need any heavy machinery.

Microcement walls applied by C Ferri Interiors in a kitchen extension project

It is good to use inside and outside because of its low permeability.  Additionally, it also bonds well to any surface and sets soon after application.  It also doesn’t contain any chlorine, a common additive to concrete to speed up setting time, making it a more natural solution.  Finally, it doesn’t shrink on application, which means no cracks or folds will occur on the surface.

Microcement in Interior Design

For interiors, microcement is a versatile product as it comes in a wide range of textures, tones and colours.

As well as being waterproof, it is durable, so it can be used for areas that get a lot of wear and tear, such as kitchen counters, splashbacks and flooring.

The good news is that it can be applied over any surface. You can remodel your entire bathroom, including walls, floors, cupboards – even basins and toilet – without removing the tiles!

Decorating kitchens with Microcement

Microcement is the go-to material to achieve a stylish industrial finish in modern kitchens. Its durable finish is perfect for worktops and splashbacks. Adding coloured finishes really brings in the style. Traditional grey finishes for a traditional industrial look. Add bold brights for an eclectic, colourful home.

A microcement kitchen island worktop

Alternatively, soft creams and neutral tones create the enduringly popular Scandinavian look. As well as worktops, open cupboards and shelves can also be created with a microcement surface. Complete with beautifully arranged crockery, glasses and house plants for the open shelf look that is now on trend.

Decorating flooring and walls with microcement

As decorating with microcement is affordable as well as durable, it makes a very good option for large surfaces such as indoor and outdoor walls and flooring.  It’s hard-wearing and gives a seamless yet stylish soft industrial aesthetic. Hence, it can even be used in living rooms and bedrooms, where you can add subtle pigments for more warmth. The neutral cement texture is a great background to highlight statement rugs or contemporary artwork. Stairs can also be transformed with microcement.

Microcement bathrooms and wet rooms

Microcement doesn’t lose its flexibility with age. This makes it a perfect choice in bathrooms and wet rooms – even where there is underfloor heating.  It’s waterproof, so it makes the perfect choice for those rustic-style, smooth wall wet rooms seen in design magazines.

Stages of decorating with microcement

Here’s what’s involved and how long it takes to get the perfect microcement finished surface…

• The surface is sanded smooth, and any imperfections are filled in
• A primer is applied to the surface
• The microcement goes on in layers
• Smooth the surface to get the perfect finish
• Let both layers dry for 24 hours and sand down for a smooth finish
• A first waterproof coat of sealant, which leaves a glossy finish
• Finally, applying 3 coats of polyurethane varnish achieves the desired finish

Microcement in your interior design project

Microcement brings a sleek industrial aesthetic to any home. A versatile way of adding style. From specified finishes across modern, architect-designed self-build projects to a stylish room update in a period home, microcement.

Microcementing takes practice and patience and leaves you with a finish that is as modern and contemporary as it is versatile. Choose an experienced, professional to help you bring this beautiful surface finish to life in your next interior design project. Browse our microcement projects here or on Houzz alongside our 5 Star reviews.