November 19, 2025
Achieving luxe vibes without the price tag.
Limewash – the interior design trend that has been the rage in recent years, with no signs of dying down anytime soon. Loved for its ability to introduce depth and texture in a subtle, aesthetic-pleasing way, it’s typically used to create that lived-in, organic look.
But due to its tricky (and labour-intensive) application process, limewash doesn’t come cheap. So, if you want a more affordable alternative that achieves the same look, here are a few options to consider:
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This living room features textured paint from Wallhub | View this project by The Interior Maison
Applying real limewash is a labour-intensive process. For one, it requires a specific criss-cross brushstroke technique, repeated throughout the designated surface. For another, it requires multiple coats of this same layer to achieve that rugged, textured look it’s known for.
This home features textured paint from Nippon Paint | View this project by H Design
In contrast, applying textured paints or coatings is more straightforward. It can be applied using the standard rollers or paint brushes, and requires far less coats to achieve even coverage. You’ll still get the subtle unevenness and tactile quality of limewash, but with less fuss.
Why textured paints and coatings work:
Note that, while textured paints and coatings are usually cheaper than limewash, this may differ if you opt for more premium brands or variants with complicated, custom special effects.
Wallpapers have seen a resurgence in the interior design world, and for good reason. They’re easy to install, maintain, and swap out if you want a fresh look. And they come in a variety of designs – from art murals to, yes, limewash designs that look right at home in a wabi-sabi home
The White Splendour collection from Wallhub
These ‘limewash’ wallpapers often come in chalky or plaster-like finishes that mimic the depth and texture of actual limewash – thus eliminating the need for specially trained professionals or multiple coats of paint.
Why ‘limewash’ wallpaper works:
View this project by Fifth Avenue Interior
Limewash designs aren’t just limited to walls! With many limewash-inspired laminates out there, you can now achieve the same look and feel for your carpentry and built-ins.
View this project by Jesigns Interior Design
And unlike actual limewash, laminates are resistant to moisture and heat, making them a great choice for kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities.
Why ‘limewash’ laminates work:
The Infeel Concrete Series from DeKorea
Love the organic look that limewash creates, but don’t want to fork out on a full-scale renovation? Vinyl wraps or stickers are your best bet.
They’re thin, self-adhesive films that you can easily stick over your walls and cabinets, thus allowing you to quickly refresh the look whenever you want. Due to the material and adhesives used, however, they don’t last as long as wallpapers, which isn’t ideal for large-scale renovations.
Why vinyl stickers or wraps work:
The Southwell Cross tiles by EcoCeramic, from Hafary
Tiles probably aren’t the first thing you think of when considering limewash, but they can be an alternative way to bring a similar level of texture and depth to your home.
SBH103 from Soon Bee Huat
For example, subtle stone-look tiles can mimic the soft, layered aesthetic of limewash while providing the durability and ease of maintenance that tiles have. That means you can use them in places heavily exposed to moisture and heat, or with high footfall – like your bathrooms and kitchens.
Why tiles work:
Love the look, or got a question? Leave us a comment down below! 👇