SEGRETO: Timeless Finishes Beyond Paint Colors!

We devote so much attention to paint colors, and that is necessary and good. But what about plaster finishes and the timelessly artful possibilities for texture, depth and soul? It’s explored in SEGRETO Impressions by Leslie Sinclair, and I encourage you to own this exquisite interiors book highlighting the work of Segreto Finishes.

Old World style French country kitchen with antiques, reclaimed materials, and finish work by Segreto Finishes.

I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may also earn a commission.

Timeless Finishes Beyond Paint Colors: SEGRETO

Leslie Sinclair’s SEGRETO impressions explores stellar design work from Segreto Finishes in an eclectic mix of sophisticated (and frequently French-inspired!) interiors.

Segreto impressions by Leslie Sinclair - book cover.
SEGRETO impressions…certainly a must own for Francophiles and design enthusiasts!
Happiness quote by Walt Whitman on Hello Lovely. #happinessquotes

Segreto Finishes Transform Interiors

The lovely glimpses here are only the beginning of the story!

From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. A quiet-toned newly constructed kitchen incorporating antiques from France. #frenchkitchen #frenchcountry #frenchantiques #bespokekitchen
From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair; Architectural Consultant & Designer: Sarah West. Building Designer: Robert Dame Designs; Builder: Parker House; Photographer: Wade Blissard.

As you know, plaster wall finishes have a long and rich history going back thousands of years.

From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. An 18th-century altar from Touraine in the entry of a newly constructed home with antique and reclaimed design features. #frenchantique #religiousantiques #plasterwalls #oldworldstyle
From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair; Designer (Furnishings): Allyson Tracy Plummer; Designer (Hard Surfaces): Tracy Design Studio; Builder: Montecito Builders; Photographer: Wade Blissard.

Above: Lovely plastered walls whisper elegance in a traditional English Country style home with a collection of mirrors and also hand-scraped wood floors.

Lovely dining room with mural painted by Segreto Finishes, round pedestal table, and grand chandelier.
Don’t you love the reflective properties of polished plaster?

We can trace plaster wall finishes back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans.

Old World style French country kitchen with ancient materials and finish work by Segreto Finishes.

The Egyptians were among the first to develop plaster as a wall finish, mixing lime, gypsum, and sand to create a smooth and durable surface. Plaster was often adorned with intricate paintings and hieroglyphics.

Beauty quote by Alice Walker on Hello Lovely Studio. #beautyquotes #soulfulquotes #alicewalker

Plaster continued to be popular in ancient Greece and Rome where the Greeks used a mixture of marble dust and lime to create a polished finish known as stucco.

Sculptural staircase with beautiful plaster work by Segreto Finishes.

The Romans expanded on this technique and used plaster to create decorative wall finishes in grand buildings, such as the villas of Pompeii.

My copy of Segreto impressions book by Leslie Sinclair in my studio with my pointe shoes and prayer beads - Hello Lovely Studio.
Hello Lovely Studio

During the Middle Ages, plaster wall finishes were commonly used in Europe when the technique of applying plaster over lath (thin strips of wood) became popular.

Beautiful traditional style dining room with mural by Segreto Finishes.
Painted mural by Segreto Finishes

SEGRETO IMPRESSIONS Demystifies the Allure

This method provided a stable surface for the plaster to adhere to and allowed for more intricate designs.

While SEGRETO impressions impresses with breathtaking wall finishes within dream homes, it also demystifies and inspires our own creative mark making. If you admire French interiors, you will discover much more than a pleasing escape within these pages.

From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. An 18th-century altar from Touraine in the entry of a newly constructed home with antique and reclaimed design features. #frenchantique #religiousantiques #plasterwalls #oldworldstyle
18th-century altar from Touraine in an entry with antique and reclaimed design features is a Hallelujah design moment indeed.

Plaster wall finishes reached new heights during the Renaissance. Italian craftsmen developed new techniques to create ornamental plasterwork known as “stucco work.”

Decorative plaster work on a ceiling - Segreto Finishes.

These Finishes are a Lovely Feast for Francophiles

Elaborate plaster moldings, cornices, and ceiling decorations were created to embellish grand palaces and churches.

Luxurious and serene bath with finishes by Segreto Finishes.

While SEGRETO impressions rolls out a feast of finishes, a nourishing design education is also on the menu.

Gold leaf embellished ceiling medallion and beautiful chandelier - Segreto Finishes.

In the 18th century, neoclassical architecture emerged, drawing inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman designs. Plaster wall finishes played a significant role in this style.

From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. Magnificent plaster walls and ceilings in the entry of a charming newly constructed Country French home. #staircase oldworld #frenchcountry #plasterwalls #interiordesign
From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair; Design: Lucas/Eilers Design Associates; Architect: Architectural Solutions; Builder: Abercrombie Custom Homes; Photo: Wade Blissard, Julie Soefer.

Above: Magnificent plaster walls and ceilings as well as soothing color grace the entry of a charming Country French home.

Luxurious and serene bath with finishes by Segreto Finishes.

Smooth, white plaster walls became fashionable, often adorned with delicate plaster moldings and decorative motifs.

Deena Metger inspirational quote about beauty. #beautyquotes #inspirationalquotes #deenametzger
Hello Lovely Studio
Is this book a reference guide for interior designers? Mais oui indeed! Inspiration reference for home stylists, builders, and artists? And howwwwww…let’s count the ways.

In the 19th century, plaster wall finishes remained popular, especially during the Victorian era. Plasterwork became more extravagant and detailed, reflecting the ornate tastes of the period.

Beautiful painted mural with trees in a timeless, breathtaking bath with console sink - Segreto Finishes.
Mural painted by Segreto

Lovely Plaster Walls + French Antiques

From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. This great room incorporates beams from the homeowner's South Texas ranch as well as 18th-century doors from Avignon. #interiordesign #frenchcountry #plasterwalls #greatroom
From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair; Architectural Consultant & Designer: Sarah West; Building Designer: Robert Dame Designs; Builder: Parker House; Photographer: Wade Blissard.

Above: A great room incorporates beams from the homeowner’s South Texas ranch as well as 18th-century doors from Avignon.

Lovely French country dining room with delicate, understated mural painted by Segreto Finishes.

Elaborate ceiling roses, cornices, and friezes were common features in Victorian homes.

Sunburst mirrors massed on a plaster wall (Segreto Finishes) with antique bench. #oldworldstyle #plasterwalls

But where did all the plasterwork go in the 20th century? With new building materials available such as drywall in the 20th century, plaster wall finishes gradually declined in popularity. Drywall offered a quicker and more cost-effective alternative for wall construction.

Enchantingly Fresh Takes on Old World

BEHOLD a breathtaking kitchen in a newly constructed home where a 16th-century mantel serves as a kitchen hood and French street lamps were also converted to pendant lighting!

From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. French antiques, plaster finishes and Old World style in a showstopping modern functioning kitchen. #kitchendesign #frenchkitchen #antiques #oldworld #plasterwalls
From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair; Designer: MoL Design; Architect: Charles W. Ligon; Builder: Kristal Construction; Photographer: Wade Blissard.

But drywall isn’t the only option where there is a budget for this beautiful alternative! Plaster finishes retained a niche market, particularly in high-end residential and restoration projects.

Above: French antiques and plaster finishes as well as Old World style in a modern functioning kitchen with integrated SegretoStone sink.

Beauty inspirational quote by Irish poet John O'Donohue on Hello Lovely. #beautyquotes #inspirationalquotes #johnodonohue
From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. French antiques, plaster finishes and Old World style in a showstopping modern functioning kitchen. #kitchendesign #frenchkitchen #antiques #oldworld #plasterwalls
From SEGRETO IMPRESSIONS by Leslie Sinclair

Today, plaster wall finishes are celebrated for the rich layer of depth they add to fine homes, for their timeless beauty and craftsmanship.

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Hello Lovely Studio…in case you care to discover a treasure trove of design goodness!

Masterful Finishes Unite Antiques With New Fixtures

What a statement this kitchen island makes in a newly constructed European country style home! It’s a re-worked 17th-century cabinet from a French sacristy which has been modified for modern living.

After all, the kitchen has become the new living room!

From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. A quiet-toned newly constructed kitchen incorporating antiques from France. #frenchkitchen #frenchcountry #frenchantiques #bespokekitchen
A modern functioning kitchen with all the charm of a French château is certainly a work of heart.

Skilled artisans and craftsmen at Segreto Finishes are innovative in their work while preserving traditional plastering techniques.

Inspirational quote about nature's beauty and wisdom by John Muir on Hello Lovely Studio. #inspirationalquote #quotes #johnmuir #naturequotes
From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. This great room incorporates beams from the homeowner's South Texas ranch as well as 18th-century doors from Avignon. #interiordesign #frenchcountry #plasterwalls #greatroom
From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair; Architectural Consultant & Designer: Sarah West; Building Designer: Robert Dame Designs; Builder: Parker House; Photographer: Wade Blissard.

Above: The stone mantel in a magnificent great room is from a farm in France’s Lorraine region.

Ethereal Mood & Unexpected Glamour

Beautiful plaster walls impart both character and interest!

From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. Mohair chaise lounges in the dramatic 'vintage glam' living room of designer Sarah West. #livingroom #plasterwalls #interiordesign #vintageglam
Mohair chaise lounges in the dramatic ‘vintage glam’ living room of designer Sarah West are inviting indeed.

Here’s hoping that this ancient art form continues to flourish in contemporary architecture and interior design!

From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. Plastered walls and ceilings as well as reclaimed wood flooring sing in a newly constructed, timeless European country inspired home. #interiordesign #plasterwalls #oldworld #staircase
Plastered walls and ceilings as well as reclaimed wood flooring sing in a newly constructed, timeless European country inspired home.

Segreto Finishes are not simply for walls. Even the “too new” black staircase railings (above) were intelligently addressed. Artisans softly layered the wrought iron with umber and gray glazes, creating a patina to harmonize with reclaimed wood stairs.

F. Scott Fitzgerald inspirational quote about belonging. #quotes #fscottfitzgerald #belonging

Patina Parfait

The day pantry and refrigerator in this glorious Old World style kitchen are hidden behind new doors finished exquisitely by Segreto.

From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. A quiet-toned newly constructed kitchen incorporating antiques from France. #frenchkitchen #frenchcountry #frenchantiques #bespokekitchen
The grand statement island is a cabinet from France dating to the 1600’s…certainly exquisite.

Can you imagine living within a masterfully wrought piece of art?

From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. French antiques, plaster finishes and Old World style in a showstopping modern functioning kitchen. #kitchendesign #frenchkitchen #antiques #oldworld #plasterwalls

Because no matter the budget, I love the idea of the home as canvas where the goal is not to fill it with colors or objects suggested in media and the marketplace. But to layer it (sometimes experimentally) thoughtfully as an interior landscape.

Segreto Finishes transformed a beautiful Spanish style home.
From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair; Architectural Consultant & Designer: Sarah West & Associates – Renovator: Parker House – Photographer: Par Bengtsson.

Above: A waterfall island and SegretoStone hood distinguish this warm Spanish revival style kitchen and keeping room.

Getting the composition right becomes a very subjective artistic exercise. I’m certainly not suggesting we all have it in us to take on the challenge…thank goodness for interior designers willing to partner with us!

John O'Donohue quote and blessing of encouragement on Hello Lovely Studio. #blessingquote #gracequote

Even artsy friends and family members can help when we get stuck.

Beautiful classic traditional dining room with pale blue color palette in SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. #interiordesign #diningroom #classic #traditionalstyle
From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair; Designer: Shannon Crain Design; Builder: Riverway Development; Photographer: Kerry Kirk.

Above: In case you Francophiles admire pretty blue and classic style!

Old World style French country kitchen with antiques, reclaimed materials, and finish work by Segreto Finishes.

Segreto Meets Spanish Revival

This is an amazing project illustrating how Old World techniques and sensibilities can blend beautifully with modern design style and lifestyles.

Inspiring quote of encouragement on Hello Lovely Studio about flowers from Theodore Roethke. #inspirational #quote #kindness #encouragement #Roethke

Timeless style means you’ll never have to groan in ten years about the choices you made!

From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. The unique flooring in this Spanish-style home's master bath is actually antique Parefeuille ceiling tile. #oldworld #interiordesign #spanishstyle #bathroom #plasterwalls
The unique flooring in this Spanish-style home’s master bath is actually antique Parefeuille ceiling tile…certainly unique.

I’m just crazy for that chandelier over the tub!

More Segreto Finish Splendor

Breathtaking plaster work by Segreto Finishes.
Encouragement quote (It's not too late to...) on Hello Lovely Studio.
Beautiful finishes on walls and wood ceiling by Segreto Finishes.
From SEGRETO impressions (2019) by Leslie Sinclair. French antiques, plaster finishes and Old World style in a showstopping modern functioning kitchen. #kitchendesign #frenchkitchen #antiques #oldworld #plasterwalls

Merci beaucoup, Segreto!

Thank you, Leslie and Segreto Finishes – for friendship and also for creating a thoughtful resource timeless design admirers will adore!

Hello Lovely Studio's counter with SEGRETO IMPRESSIONS book and African glass bead necklace.

ORDER YOUR COPY OF SEGRETO impressions and also follow Segreto on IG! Have a moment to peek at a few European inspired beautiful homes?

Psst. We don’t possess the plastering skills of artisans at Segreto, but we did plaster the custom range hood in our renovated kitchen:

And the collection of sunburst mirrors as seen above reminded me of this mood board I assembled:

Peace to you right where you are.

-michele

I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.

Thanks for shopping RIGHT HERE to keep decor inspiration flowing on Hello Lovely!

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White Slipcovered Sofa
SHOP MY HOME!
29″ Whitewashed Table Lamp Set of 2
White Matelasse Quilt on MY BED
SHOP MY BATH!
Trees White Wallpaper Mural
Round Farmhouse Table
Myla Slipcover Sofa
Deconstructed Wingback Bed
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Milagro Heart
Slipcovered Dining Chair
Rustic Farmhouse Stool
Edgecombe End Table
Parisian Style Iron Table Lamp  33.5″
Black or Bronze Accent Table
French Stripe Basket Set
White Cotton Crochet Bed Skirt
French Country Rattan Basket Set
Marble Subway Mosaic Tile
Rattan Basket With Lid
White Ruffle Bedding
Seagrass Basket Set
Schumacher Wild Things Wallpaper
Slipcovered Sofa
Upholstered Dining Arm Chair
Shop My Breakfast Nook
White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
Faux Potted French Lavender
Shaw Daybed
Distressed White French Country Chandelier
French Country Headboard
Oval Back Counter Stool, Set of 2
Antique Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp
Round French Tufted Ottoman
Kinston Wood Bench
Italian Candelabra Chandelier
Slipcovered Linen Chair
Warner Upholstered Bench
Rustic Country French Dresser
Laurel Wreath Mirror
Round Farmhouse Dining Table
Reclaimed Wood Dresser
Louis Upholstered Bench
Pardon My French Doormat
Stripe Turkish Towel Throw
Pamela Arm Chair
Sweater Weave Basket
French Carved Wood Chandelier
Terracotta Pots & Basket
French Country Wood Chandelier
French Linen Dining Chair
Gustavian Cabinet
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Jute Area Rug
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Scrubbed Wood 5-Light Chandelier
Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Linen Duvet Set
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing
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Let’s SHOP!

White Slipcovered Sofa
SHOP MY HOME!
29″ Whitewashed Table Lamp Set of 2
White Matelasse Quilt on MY BED
SHOP MY BATH!
Trees White Wallpaper Mural
Round Farmhouse Table
Myla Slipcover Sofa
Deconstructed Wingback Bed
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Milagro Heart
Slipcovered Dining Chair
Rustic Farmhouse Stool
Edgecombe End Table
Parisian Style Iron Table Lamp  33.5″
Black or Bronze Accent Table
French Stripe Basket Set
White Cotton Crochet Bed Skirt
French Country Rattan Basket Set
Marble Subway Mosaic Tile
Rattan Basket With Lid
White Ruffle Bedding
Seagrass Basket Set
Schumacher Wild Things Wallpaper
Slipcovered Sofa
Upholstered Dining Arm Chair
Shop My Breakfast Nook
White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
Faux Potted French Lavender
Shaw Daybed
Distressed White French Country Chandelier
French Country Headboard
Oval Back Counter Stool, Set of 2
Antique Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp
Round French Tufted Ottoman
Kinston Wood Bench
Italian Candelabra Chandelier
Slipcovered Linen Chair
Warner Upholstered Bench
Rustic Country French Dresser
Laurel Wreath Mirror
Round Farmhouse Dining Table
Reclaimed Wood Dresser
Louis Upholstered Bench
Pardon My French Doormat
Stripe Turkish Towel Throw
Pamela Arm Chair
Sweater Weave Basket
French Carved Wood Chandelier
Terracotta Pots & Basket
French Country Wood Chandelier
French Linen Dining Chair
Gustavian Cabinet
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Jute Area Rug
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Scrubbed Wood 5-Light Chandelier
Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Linen Duvet Set
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing