Issue 39 Sept 23 - Journal - Page 52
common eras of property in the UK today, especially in
towns and cities. Earthborn colours that would suit a
Victorian property include Humpty Dumpty, Lady Bug
and Hobgoblin.
general guide allow at least 1 month curing time for every
5mm of thickness. In poor drying conditions this time may
need to be extended.
• Before painting make sure the surface is stable, not flaky
or powdery.
20th century paint colours:
The 20th century saw a boom in the use of ‘colour
science’ and ‘colour psychology’ to select interior colours,
particularly in the 1950’s where a scientific approach to
design was in vogue. Hallways were ‘the handshake of the
house’ and should be painted a warm, inviting colour.
Places to relax and heal were often a soothing blue. Places
to be productive were a colour interesting enough to
avoid boredom but calm enough to avoid distraction.
Colour recommendations include Peach Baby, Bo Peep
and Cricket.
• Make sure you choose the correct product and follow
application instructions based on whether it is for internal
or external use.
Paying homage to the era of your property through
your colour choices can also play an important role in
conserving the history of the building. From Georgian to
Victorian, pin pointing historically significant colour
palettes can help restore older properties to their former
glory.
Georgian paint colours:
In the Georgian period, choosing a colour for your home
was often a matter of price. Colours made from pigments
that were easy to obtain were used to make ‘common
colours’ like stone, earthy yellows, lead grey and white. A
more colourful palette needed more expensive pigments.
These ‘fancy’ or ‘party’ colours, such as blossom and pea
green, could be triple the cost, if not more, than the common colours. Recommended colours from the Earthborn
range include Secret Room, Rosie Posie and Cat’s Cradle.
Earthborn’s highly breathable Claypaint is available in 72
signature shades, that look timeless, particularly in older
buildings. If you are fortunate to have a heritage property,
it is vital to ensure its continued protection for many years
to come.
Victorian paint colours:
The Victorian era spanned almost 65 years and in that
time tastes, fashions and technology changed hugely.
This period saw a boom in British housing stock, so it’s
unsurprising that Victorian houses remain one the most
Above, Moreton House Club Room Gregory's Den and Seagull
i
i
Conservation & Heritage Journal
50