In recent years, continuous material finishes enveloping interior spaces have become increasingly prominent, particularly in branding-focused retail environments. A continuous interior refers to using what are typically liquid-applied materials that are cured to create seamless, uninterrupted surfaces, eliminating the appearance of joints and seams—at least during the initial application. A growing range of products now offer various color options, textures, and practical properties, making these finishes more versatile. Interestingly, the aesthetic effect of such interiors is uncanny to the rise of 3D rendering software, where the seamless, fluid look mirrors the smooth, idealized spaces typical of digital renderings. This effect also contributes to a sense of scalelessness, as the absence of visible seams or joints makes it harder to discern the actual size of a space, often giving the illusion that the interior is larger than it is.
In architectural interiors, well-designed projects traditionally focus on resolving material seams—carefully considering how different materials meet. This involves deliberate attention to practical factors beyond aesthetic considerations, such as thermal expansion, moisture barriers, material thickness, and construction tolerances. Despite meticulous design and execution, these seams often become the most vulnerable part of interior finishes. Over time, factors such as aging, sunlight exposure, and even subtle vibrations or movements inherent to occupied buildings can cause seams to develop gaps, cracks, or discoloration, leading to maintenance issues within a few years.
