Ambitec Polished Plaster Finishes on Fireplaces

30 August 2026

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Ambitec expands its polished plaster services across New Zealand, connecting architects, designers and homeowners with certified local applicators in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown for bespoke interior finishes.

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Ambitec polished plasters are often specified on fireplaces as an alternative finish to paint to give the fireplace focus, substance and help ground the space.

Before specifiying our finishes in this type of installation, it is important to understand the limitations and the safety standards that are required to be met for your build. As per our Branz Fire Certificates our Ambitec Suave, SuaveStone and Bone China polished plaster finishes meet the Building code Group 1S Classification for application on plasterboard via the NZBC Verification Method C/VM2 Appendix A and Group 3 on MDF.

Ambitec Suave in ‘Grey Grey’ was rendered on the fireplace in this bungalow renovation by Sayes Jackson Architects.

Along with understanding the group rating required, Ambitec polished plaster is suitable for use on a fireplace under the following conditions: a fire-rated substrate is installed as per regulations, eg, Eterpan, Villaboard or Supalux are installed as per the manufacturer's specification. All joints and corners are stopped to a level 4. (This applies to Ambitec polished plaster finishes that are applied on the vertical faces adjacent to the fire only).

An assumption is made that the finish is not returned into the firebox opening and the rising heat is deflected by a firebox surround or mantle when a TV is installed directly above. As a rule, if the fire cannot ‘see’ the Ambitec polished plaster, it is safe to use in this type of installation.

Suave in Imperial brown makes a dramatic statement in the master fireplace at Cliff House by Bosley Architects and Sonia Cotter Design.

Although our finishes can be wiped clean with a damp cloth, it is also important to note if installing a wood burner, there may be smoke residue that escapes when the door is opened during use that may cause some discolouration on the plaster over time, in particular if a lighter finish has been selected. This can be remedied by specifying a darker colour and following our Care & Maintenance guide.

Stone will always be a more durable finish on your hearth but if Ambitec polished plaster finishes are specified we recommend applying several coats of our clear sealer for added protection. (We do not recommend using Ambitec finishes on hearths with wood fires)