For homeowners who want to create a refined, natural aesthetic with timeless appeal, clay renders provide a sophisticated alternative to conventional painted walls. At Rockcote, we believe that beauty and durability should go hand in hand, which is why our clay and lime mix formulation is designed to deliver stunning interior finishes that stand the test of time.
With a long tradition of craftsmanship and quality, Rockcote is proudly Australian, and our commitment to natural, breathable materials is reflected in every product we create. One of our most elegant and innovative offerings is Rockcote Otsumigaki, a high-performance, smooth and silky clay and lime premixed plaster..Whether you’re transforming a single feature wall or designing an entire home with organic textures, Rockcote Otsumigaki is the perfect solution for achieving a sophisticated, bespoke finish.
The Beauty of Clay and Lime: A Timeless Choice
Clay and lime have been used in architecture for centuries, valued for their natural beauty, breathability, and durability. A clay and lime mix brings together the best of both worlds—offering the flexibility and softness of clay with the strength and resilience of lime.
Rockcote Otsumigaki is crafted to enhance these qualities, providing:
- A tough, durable finish ideal for high-traffic areas.
- Natural breathability, improving indoor air quality by allowing moisture to pass through walls rather than trapping it.
- A smooth, polished surface with a soft, organic texture that reflects light beautifully.
- A chemical-free, zero VOC composition, making it a healthier choice for homes and families.
Unlike traditional painted walls, which can feel flat and artificial, clay render creates depth and movement, subtly shifting with changes in light throughout the day. The result is a warm, inviting, and effortlessly sophisticated look that suits both modern and classic interiors.
What Makes Rockcote Otsumigaki Stand Out?
Otsumigaki, meaning “polished and compressed” in Japanese, is a refined clay and lime mix plaster designed for interior use. It is a contemporary take on the ancient Japanese tradition of shikkui plaster, known for its elegant finish and remarkable durability.
Unlike mass-produced, synthetic wall finishes, Rockcote Otsumigaki is designed to be as natural as possible, delivering a unique combination of beauty and resilience.
Key Features of Rockcote Otsumigaki:
- Versatile Finish Options – Can be left with a natural, rustic texture or polished to a high-gloss sheen.
- Soft Off-White Base – Naturally beautiful but can be tinted with oxides or liquid tints to achieve a custom colour palette.
- Superb Vapour Permeability – Allows walls to breathe, reducing condensation and mould risks, and contributing to healthier indoor environments.
- Highly Durable – Once applied and polished, the surface is strong and long-lasting, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like stairwells, halls, and entranceways.
- Minimal Maintenance – Smooth and easy to clean, requiring only a damp cloth for upkeep.
Every batch of Rockcote Otsumigaki is carefully prepared to meet our high standards of craftsmanship, ensuring that each application results in a flawless, natural aesthetic that enhances the character of your home.
Where and How to Use Rockcote Otsumigaki
Because of its strength and refined finish, Rockcote Otsumigaki is perfect for interior surfaces where durability meets design.
Ideal Applications:
- Feature walls – Elevate living spaces with a rich, textural surface that catches the light.
- Hallways and stairwells – High-traffic areas benefit from the product’s tough, polished finish.
- Fireplace surrounds – Achieve a sleek, contemporary look with a finish that complements both traditional and modern interiors.
- Boutique commercial spaces – Perfect for creating a high-end, natural aesthetic in cafes, restaurants, and retail environments.
Application & Finishing Process
To achieve the best results, Rockcote Otsumigaki is supplied as a pre-mixed wet plaster, ready for application. Our recommendation is to work with highly skilled, licensed tradespeople who have extensive experience in clay and lime renders to ensure a seamless finish.
The application process includes:
- Substrate Preparation – Walls must be clean, sound, and stable. The Wood Moisture Equivalent (WME) must be no more than 15%. Any base coats should be fully cured.
- First Coat Application – Applied at 0.5–1mm thickness using a stainless steel trowel.
- Second Coat Application – Applied wet-on-wet within 30–60 minutes or after 24 hours if needed.
- Polishing and Finishing – Once fully dry (1–2 days), the surface can be polished using Rockcote Liquid Carnauba Wax to enhance its natural lustre.
Because Otsumigaki is a specialist material, precision and expertise are essential to achieving a truly bespoke, high-end finish. Looking for a master applicator? Connect with a Rockcote specialist here.
A Showcase of Rockcote Otsumigaki in Action
One stunning example of Rockcote Otsumigaki in a real-world project is Otsu House—a breathtaking coastal home designed by Rachel and Josh Ooi of Base Building Concepts.
For Otsu House, Rockcote Otsumigaki was chosen to create a harmonious connection between architecture and the natural surroundings. The home features sculptural curved staircases and expansive walls finished with polished clay render, bringing warmth, movement, and texture to the interiors.
“We loved that Rockcote Otsumigaki can endure the elements. Salt, sun and kids! It’s a really durable product.” – Josh Ooi, Base Building Concepts
The project highlights how Rockcote Otsumigaki can transform a space, offering sophisticated simplicity with a handcrafted feel that cannot be replicated by standard painted finishes.
Why Homeowners Choose Rockcote for Clay Renders
Rockcote has been at the forefront of natural building materials for over 40 years, continuously innovating while staying true to authentic craftsmanship and sustainable design.
What Sets Rockcote Apart?
- Proudly Australian – Manufactured in Australia to suit our unique climate conditions.
- Commitment to Sustainability – Zero VOC, breathable, and free from harmful chemicals.
- Craftsmanship & Quality – Every Rockcote product is designed to balance aesthetics, durability, and performance.
- Industry-Leading Expertise – We offer custom specifications and professional guidance to help you achieve the perfect finish.
For homeowners looking to create a distinctive, high-end interior, Rockcote Otsumigaki is the ideal choice. It redefines walls as an art form, adding character, depth, and texture to any space.
If you’re seeking to incorporate more natural materials into your home, explore the Natural Materials by Rockcote range. Inspired by nature, these finishes offer beautiful, breathable, and sustainable solutions for both interior and exterior spaces—without compromising on health or the environment. From the glass-like polish of Rockcote Venetian Plaster to the on-trend textured look of Rockcote Earthen Render, our Natural Materials collection allows you to craft a space with warmth, personality, and timeless appeal. Discover the full range here.
A Lasting Impression with Rockcote Otsumigaki
A well-designed home is one where every detail is carefully considered, creating a space that is both functional and beautiful. Rockcote Otsumigaki is more than just a finish—it brings depth, texture, and a refined elegance that enhances any interior.
If you’re looking to create a home with a distinctive, high-end aesthetic, Rockcote Otsumigaki offers the perfect balance of durability and sophistication. Experience the natural beauty of clay and lime mix in a way that only Rockcote can deliver.
Because a home should be more than just walls—it should be a masterpiece!
