alqaṭífa
Natural Coatings
Site diary

Logbook

Rising damp — Why physical construction beats chemical "patching"

Jan 12, 2026

Technical consulting & Lime renders

Rising damp — Why physical construction beats chemical "patching"

Recurring damp? The solution is not to cover it, but to let it breathe. We detail our comprehensive remediation methodology presented at the CONTART 2024 congress: active ventilation by thermal draft and natural breathable renders —lime, trabadillo, clay— vs. the failure of chemical barriers.

Tadelakt bathrooms at Casa Al-Zaytun: tradition, matter and timeless beauty

Jul 07, 2025

Tadelakt

Tadelakt bathrooms at Casa Al-Zaytun: tradition, matter and timeless beauty

Rehabilitation of bathrooms in Casa Al-Zaytun using artisanal tadelakt. A journey through the continuous coating technique with lime, natural pigments and waterproof finish that combines tradition and timeless beauty.

Craftsmanship in natural materials to measure

Apr 16, 2025

Technical consulting

Craftsmanship in natural materials to measure

At Alqatifa we unite the technical vision of the architect with the mastery of the craftsman. We formulate our own lime and gypsum mortars, 100% natural, to guarantee healthy, breathable and durable solutions, adapted to the specific needs of each project.

Traditional clay floors of vélez-málaga: history, sustainability and artisanal elegance

Nov 25, 2024

Workshop

Traditional clay floors of vélez-málaga: history, sustainability and artisanal elegance

We recover the tradition of clay floors in Axarquía. Discover their thermal properties, sustainability, and how we install and protect them using lime mortars and natural treatments with waxes and oils.

Execution of a traditional tile vault staircase

Nov 07, 2024

Tile stairs & vaults

Execution of a traditional tile vault staircase

Step by step of the construction of a traditional tile vault staircase without formwork. From the catenary arch to the final coating, we show how this traditional technique offers light, aesthetic, and sustainable structural solutions.

What is lime? types of lime

Nov 27, 2023

Lime renders

What is lime? types of lime

Do you know the difference between air lime and hydraulic lime? We explain what lime is according to the UNE-EN 459-1 standard, its main types (CL, NHL), and its uses in construction. An essential guide to understanding this noble and versatile material.

Welcome to alqatifa!

Nov 25, 2023

Workshop

Welcome to alqatifa!

Discover the origin and philosophy of Alqatifa. Jesús Moral and María José Bustos present their studio dedicated to vernacular architecture, natural building, and the recovery of traditional materials such as lime and earth.