Designing Kitchens and Bathrooms - finishing Durock

FNG here. Been searching and reading many threads on Cement board but seeing nothing addressing this topic. Although I have picked up a lot of other knowledge.

My initial plan was to use Durock in tub area and continue down the wet wall with the same product. Only the tub area and behind the toilet will be tiled. The remaning part of the wall I hope for a smooth finish and don't see much on how to or if Cement backer board can be finished off with thinset or a plaster coat.

Smooth side or rough side for tile area, same question for finshed area if it is possible.

Any ideas and help appreciated

Spat

Welcome to the forums

I've never seen anyone finish durock. SOP is to drywall the areas that paint and durock just the tile areas.

I would transition from the durock to sheetrock for the non wet /non tiled area. You would have to finish the durock like plaster, and what a PITA. In addition, it comes in 3x5 sheets, and you would have alot of seams to smooth out.
The durock has a side that says "this side out", I believe, but rough side in its absence.

My desire was to duplicate the solidness of the plaster walls I removed. Cheaper and easier is a wonderful thing.
I understand and respect your feed back.
Thanks