Tadelakt

Moroccan Tadelakt is considered to be one of the oldest and most tresured plaster finishes in the world. Originally Tadelakt was used by the Berbers to waterproof earthen cisterns for the hygenic storage of drinking water.

Coloured with natural earth pigments, it soon became a highly prized surface finish that was used extensively in the Riads in Morocco. The beautiful finish follows the old Moroccan Tadelakt tradition. Tadelakt freely translated, means to "rub in" or more appropriately "to caress". Tadelakt is polished to a shiny finish with a river stone and treated with a soft natural soap made from olive oil, which serves to render the surface water resistant.

The allure of Tadelakt is not easily described in words or pictures. It is only through touching the surface that you can fully appreciate this unique finish. The surface has been described as being as hard as stone yet as soft as silk to the touch. Tadelakt can also be used on floors, but remains somewhat fragile. It is recommended that it is only used in areas where walking is done in bare feet or soft shoes. Small stones trapped in the soles of hard shoes will scratch the surface.

Tadelakt is not a standardised finish; the surface seems to change in colour depending on the lighting conditions. Walls will look rustic and hand crafted with a slightly wavy appearance. Over time, Tadelakt develops a patina that creates a subtle ever-changing lumination. Tadelakt will develop very fine cracks that add to the ancient appearance of the finish. Because of its unique characteristics, Tadelakt can be made to seemlessly cover walls, ceilings, floors, sinks, showers and even bathtubs.

The Moroccan Experience. For a complete Moroccan experience why not compliment your Tadelakt with Handmade Moroccan Tiles and furniture. Just follow the links above.