Heritage Plaster Restorations and Reproductions Across Dunedin and Otago
Seddons Fibrous Plasterers is a trusted name in heritage plaster restoration across Dunedin, Mosgiel, Queenstown, and the greater Otago region. With over 70 years of experience, we work on historic homes, commercial landmarks, and heritage-listed buildings to restore plaster detailing with care and precision. Our expert team uses traditional techniques and modern materials to protect and preserve the architectural beauty of New Zealand’s past.
Heritage Plaster Restorations That Respect Original Architecture
We understand that working on heritage buildings requires skill, patience, and attention to detail. Whether it’s restoring ornate cornices, ceiling roses, or plaster domes, we replicate and repair damaged sections to match the original design. All our work complies with heritage overlay requirements to ensure nothing is lost during the restoration process.
Accurate Reproduction of Historical Plaster Features
We can create moulds from surviving elements or rebuild from photographs and architectural drawings. This ensures your building retains its character and charm, even after extensive repairs.
Seamless Integration With Existing Elements
Our skilled team blends new plaster sections with the old, making repairs virtually invisible. When complete, the result is cohesive and historically faithful.
Seismic Strengthening and Re-Plastering for Heritage Buildings
Otago and much of New Zealand are prone to seismic activity, which can cause significant damage to older plasterwork. At Seddons, we specialise in plaster restoration that supports structural upgrades and seismic strengthening. Our reinforced fibrous plaster ensures restored features can withstand future movement while maintaining their original appearance.
Strength Meets Aesthetics in Seismic Zones
We use lightweight, durable materials that are compatible with strengthening works, without compromising on detail. It’s a safe and sensible choice for restoring lath and plaster buildings.
Restoration for All Types of Heritage Structures
From private homes to public halls and churches, we have experience working on a wide range of heritage buildings. We’ll collaborate with engineers and project managers to deliver a result that’s both safe and stunning.
Custom Moulded Plasterwork for Historic Buildings
When original mouldings are missing or beyond repair, we can recreate them from scratch. Our team designs and manufactures fibrous plaster mouldings that match existing profiles or revive long-lost styles. Whether you have reference photos, samples, or just an idea, we’ll bring it to life.
Skilled Craftspeople and Detailed Techniques
We use traditional methods combined with modern materials for authenticity and durability. Every piece is crafted with an eye for heritage accuracy.
Tailored Solutions for Every Building
No two heritage restorations are the same, which is why we offer flexible options for mould design and installation. Whether it's a single feature or an entire ceiling, we’ll tailor the work to your needs.
The Benefits of Using Fibrous Plaster in Heritage Restorations
Fibrous plaster is a preferred material for restoring heritage interiors due to its strength, light weight, and ability to capture fine details. It allows for the reproduction of intricate mouldings without adding unnecessary weight to old structures. Its flexibility and adaptability make it ideal for restoring delicate historical plasterwork.
Period-Accurate Results With Modern Performance
Our fibrous plaster replicates the look of traditional lime or gypsum plaster while offering greater durability. This makes it ideal for long-term preservation.
Suitable for Complex and Decorative Designs
Because it’s cast in moulds, fibrous plaster can recreate even the most intricate decorative features. From cornices to entire ceiling panels, it’s a versatile choice for restorations.
Heritage Restoration Projects
This very ornate lath and plaster ceiling and cornice, built circa 1880's in Dunedin, was badly damaged due to severe structural movement. This restoration posed several technical difficulties, as none of the original moulds were in existence.
Seddon's staff removed the remaining damaged sections of the ceiling and reconstructed the cornices and enrichments in the factory before making flexible moulds to recast the pieces.
A total of six moulds had to be made for one length of new cornice.
When finished and painted, the restored ceiling matched the original exactly, and as a result, it is impossible to tell where the repair work was carried out.
Frequently Asked Questions – Heritage Plaster Restorations
What Types of Heritage Buildings Do You Work On?
We work on a wide range of historic buildings, including villas, churches, public halls, heritage homes, and commercial properties with architectural significance.
Can You Recreate Missing Plaster Features?
Yes. We can make moulds from existing features or design entirely new mouldings to match the original style using drawings or reference photos.
Do You Work With Heritage Overlay and Council Requirements?
Absolutely. We understand local council requirements and ensure all restoration work meets heritage compliance guidelines.
Is Fibrous Plaster Suitable for Heritage Restoration?
Yes. Fibrous plaster is lightweight, strong, and ideal for recreating detailed designs, making it perfect for heritage restoration projects
Can You Reinforce Plasterwork for Seismic Safety?
Yes, we can reinforce restored plasterwork to comply with modern seismic safety standards, ensuring long-lasting results without losing detail.
Restore your building’s past with expertly crafted fibrous plaster.
Contact Seddons today for a quote or to learn more about our heritage restoration services in Otago.