Morocco's Polished Walls

Tadelakt is a traditional Moroccan lime plaster originating from the Marrakech region, where it has long been used to finish hammams, riads, fountains and palace interiors. Its water-resistant surface is created through a specialised hand-polishing technique.

Unlike conventional wall plaster, tadelakt is compressed and polished with a smooth river stone before being treated with black olive soap, known locally as savon beldi. The soap reacts with the lime to create a water-repellent finish.

The technique was traditionally used in places exposed to humidity, particularly hammams and water basins. Its continuous surface also allows craftspeople to finish curved walls, alcoves and architectural details without the joints associated with ceramic tiles.

Talliart

Based in Marrakech, Talliart specialises in traditional tadelakt and contemporary mineral finishes. The atelier works on the renovation of riads, villas and private interiors, combining Moroccan craftsmanship with architectural design.

Its projects include bathrooms, walk-in showers, integrated washbasins, alcoves and custom-built furniture. The studio also works with zellige and other traditional Moroccan materials, allowing different craft techniques to be incorporated into a single interior project.

According to the atelier, its expertise in tadelakt has developed over two decades, with each surface finished by hand.

From Hammams to Contemporary Architecture

Today, tadelakt is used in bathrooms and architectural interiors where a continuous mineral finish is desired. Mineral pigments can be incorporated into the plaster, producing a wide range of colours.

The technique requires suitable substrates, experienced application and appropriate maintenance. Although traditional tadelakt is water-resistant, its suitability for showers and other continuously wet areas depends on the complete construction and waterproofing system.

Studios such as Talliart demonstrate how traditional Moroccan craftsmanship continues to find applications in contemporary architecture while maintaining a connection with its origins.

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