Ambitec

What is polished plaster?
Polished Plasters are natural lime based or synthetic based wall finishes. They replicate the organic beauty of polished natural stone. Traditionally known by many names including Venetian Plaster, Venetian Stucco, Marmorino, Carrara, Spatulata, Travertine, Tadelakt (which is a Moroccan style lime plaster). It is trowelled onto a level 4 finished substrate in multiple coats, the lime variants are then burnished to create a smooth almost glass like venetian plaster finish.

How are Ambitec Polished plasters different to venetian Plaster?
Ambitec polished plasters are applied with the same traditional methods as venetian plaster with a trowel in multiple layers in which textures can be enhanced or reduced. Ambitec’s boutique range of interior polished plasters are modern interpretations of the venetian lime-based plasters which have been developed by us for the NZ market. They comprise of an acrylic/resin base with marble and stone particulates and water. Our plaster is then honed to create the desired level of polish from matte to gloss. Through its excellent adhesion and elastic properties, Ambitec plasters makes for an extremely durable finish.

How do I specify Ambitec Polished plasters?
The information required when specifying Ambitec products are: The plaster system you require - Suave, Tierrafino or Bone China; Colour - specify from our colour library or submit a paint swatch; Texture style and the amount of texture, Polish level and whether a sealer is required i.e.: moisture prone or high traffic areas.

On what substrates can Ambitec Polished Plasters be installed?
Suitable substrates for in-situ applications are all types of Plasterboard stopped to a level 4, Concrete tilt slab panels after hoist holes and any damage are made good, Blockwork with a 10cm skim coat of cement-based plaster. If using MDF panels this needs to be discussed first as there are strict guidelines for construction and installation that needs to be adhered to. For any previously decorated surfaces – these need to have existing finish removed and the surface made good.

Is lighting important?
Well considered lighting is just as important as the Ambitec plaster finishes when creating atmosphere and ambience within a room. The composition, character and application of our Ambitec Interior Polished plasters create a surface finish that is both textural and patterned. Lighting when used correctly, whether natural or artificial, highlights and emphasizes this texture, accentuating the three-dimensional qualities of the surface by adding depth and movement throughout the day.

What is the difference between the three Ambitec plaster systems?
Ambitec offers three boutique interior plaster systems. Suave, our contemporary minimalist plaster able to be tinted to a range of colours, Tierrafino XS our more rustic traditional plaster combined with natural clay and aggregate and Bone China, a decorative plaster with an eggshell effect most commonly in white. Both Suave and Tierrafino XS can be tinted, have varying amounts of texture applied and be honed from a low-grade to a high-grade polish.

How durable are Ambitec Polished Plasters?
Ambitec polished plasters due to their formulation are extremely flexible and durable able to withstand knocks and general wear and tear, but unfortunately, sometimes cracks can appear. This only ever happens when the substrate is compromised or fails due to the material shifting when joints have not been correctly finished or expansion joints have not been allowed for. For us to repair the crack the substrate will need to be repaired first. Depending on the level of the damage we can either patch such as areas with standard wear and tear or the total area will need to be redone. When specifying our polished plasters on cabinetry, we advise you speak to Paul about the construction of the joinery first to ensure the best results will be achieved.

Can your plaster systems be used in wet areas?
Our plaster areas can be used in moisture prone areas such bathrooms, ensuites, kitchens and on soffits, but cannot be used in shower cubicles, wet areas or areas that are affected directly by water.

Why should I choose Ambitec over other interior polished plaster companies?
Ambitec has been involved in the high-end residential and commercial interiors industry for over 20 years and is more than just an interior polished plaster installation company. We have an exclusive supply chain of manufacture to installation New Zealand wide, with our own in-house team of skilled applicators and licenced installers plus our unique range of boutique plaster finishes. We are a design-led company and work closely with architects, designers and homeowners alike to achieve the perfect finish, look and feel for their desired spaces.

How do I care for my Ambitec Polished Plaster surfaces?
The care & maintenance of Ambitec Suave, Tierrafino and Bone China interior polished plaster finishes is extremely easy. 

Approximately 4 weeks after installation the product has completely hardened and can be maintained as follows: 

• Use a clean dry micro fibre cloth for normal dusting. 
• Use a similar cloth, dampened very slightly to remove scuffmarks. Gently rub over the marks in a circular movement. For more persistent scuffmarks a small amount of Mr. Muscle Glass & Surface Cleaner (Clear version only!) sprayed onto the damp cloth can be used. It is important to test on a small, preferably ‘hidden’, spot first. 
• Deeper scratches can be removed by light circular sanding. Use normal sandpaper; grit size 180-220. For other more substantial stains or damage please call Ambitec for a maintenance and service visit, or at any time for advice.

Note: External corners are the most vulnerable. Damage to the surface finish mainly occurs by pulling vacuum cleaner power cords around the edging of the corner. This should be avoided. 

If there is no skirting installed, extreme care should be taken when washing hard floors; avoid mops rubbing against the bottom edge of the interior surface finish as eventually a discoloured track will appear. 

Never use any spirits; thinners; wax or furniture oil to remove stains or scuffmarks on Ambitec Interior finishes.

Suave Colour Range

View the full Suave Colour range here. Quarter, half, double and triple colour shades are available on request.

On screen colours may differ to actual samples, therefore use as a reference guide only and please obtain a sample of the product before making a final selection.

All samples are in a medium polish and medium traditional texture at 90 × 150mm.

Please allow up to 2–3 weeks for made to order samples.

SuaveStone Colour Range

View the full SuaveStone colour range here.

On screen colours may differ to actual samples, therefore use as a reference guide only and please obtain a sample of the product before making a final selection.

All samples are in a medium polish and medium traditional texture at 90 × 150mm.

Please allow up to 2–3 weeks for made to order samples.

Every Ambitec installation is completed by either our dedicated in-house installation team or a certified Ambitec installer. All installers are trained in the correct application of Ambitec products and work to our installation standards, ensuring a consistent, high-quality finish regardless of where your project is located.

Learn more here.