Durable, Cleanable, Quiet
Choose finishes that tolerate minor movement, resist condensation, and simplify maintenance. For walls/ceilings, use high-quality drywall with moisture-tolerant primer and low-VOC acrylic in matte or eggshell to cut glare on slopes. In wet zones, switch to cement board and a bonded waterproofing membrane behind tile. Add acoustical mineral wool in knee walls and a resilient channel where you want extra quiet.
Trim, Panels, and Details
Prefinished wood or engineered panels add warmth without seasonal cupping; specify expansion gaps and concealed fasteners. For a unified look, run continuous base and clean returns at slope transitions. Where scuffs are likely, include washable wainscot panels or durable HPL in desk alcoves.
Maintenance & IAQ
Stick to low-odor, low-VOC products for healthier indoor air, and plan a small access hatch behind millwork for inspections. Document paint formulas and tile grout types for seamless touch-ups later.
See curated, attic-friendly finish stacks in our NYC attic materials and finishes guide.