How to Use the Architectural Colours Palette of Tonal Shades

What are the Architectural Colours?

In a choice of 95 graduated shades, the Architectural Colours includes gentle light tones and restful neutrals. Each family produces subtle nuances of shade using different strengths of the same pigment. When used in conjunction, these gradations of tone create a superb balance of colour. The palette enables both experienced professionals and aspiring homeowners to create harmonious interior schemes.

Wall (top): Porcelain II

Wall (bottom): Porcelain V

Arranged chromatically in 19 groups of five gradual shades, the palette is numbered I to V according to the strength of pigment in each colour.

The Architectural Colours palette ranges from light to dark and warm to cool. Each shade can be applied to ceilings, cornices, walls and woodwork, either individually or in effortless combination. To complete the collection, five refreshing white tones provide valuable tools for any interior scheme.

Ceiling and Upper Wall: Steel V

Lower wall: Steel II

Using neutrals: elegant, classic and effortlessly usable

Neutral does not mean bland. Instead, neutral paint schemes are timeless and sophisticated with an unequalled calming quality.

Our Creative Director, Ruth Mottershead, explains:

“We should never feel that using neutrals and whites is unadventurous! In fact, working with the Architectural families and their subtle colour variations can actually create a highly sophisticated scheme.

We wanted to demonstrate how versatile the palette could be. The colours can be used to produce the subtle variations that would normally be achieved by light. We also wanted to show how effortlessly they provide a natural base to layer up or, alternatively, frame bolder colours.”

Discover the gallery of schemes that showcase the Architectural Colours in various combinations to highlight the versatility of these usable hues.

Ceiling: Stone I

Upper wall and Shutter: Stone II

Stripe: Moleskin

Lower wall and skirting: Stone V

Using the Architectural Colours in a scheme

Each shade in the Architectural Colours palette can be utilised in isolation or as part of a wider scheme. These neutral shades work beautifully when paired with related shades from the Architectural Colours, complementary Original Colours or wallpaper designs.

Walls: Powder V, Powder III

Ceiling: Powder V

Skirting: Powder I

Combine graduated shades for added depth

Combining shades from one Architectural family on different architectural features can add a subtle depth to an interior. Tonal paint schemes can trick the eye into thinking all of the colours are the same shade.

Consider using deeper shades on walls and skirting boards, and lighter tones on the cornicing and ceiling for a graduated scheme. This design expands the sense of space and makes low ceilings appear higher. Introduce colour highlights of bolder hues from the Original Colours to add detail and interest to your scheme.

Ceiling: Muga

Wall and Door Architrave: Paper III

Lower wall: Paper V

Far room: Morning Room / Paper I

Utilise colour blocking for a calm and contemporary scheme

When several tones from the same group of Architectural Colours are featured together, they achieve a harmonious combination. Juxtapose these softly contrasting, tonal shades in a colour blocking design for an interesting, contemporary feel.

Sprig is a timeless pale green that offers a smart alternative to neutrals or greys. This asymmetrical design is impactful yet balanced by using three related soft greens in combination.

Walls: Sprig III, Sprig V, Sprig I

Ceiling: Sprig I

Pair with our Original Colours for added personality

The Architectural Colours can also accompany the stronger shades found in the Original Colours. The intuitive Paint & Paper Library colour card demonstrates which shades are related by pigment and can easily be paired for a coordinated scheme.

Alternatively, for a contrasting finish, combine colours from across the colour chart to create a unique, compelling space. Salt is an excellent companion to Brimstone to enliven a north-facing hallway. Or for a neutral pairing, Slate IV creates a captivating contrast alongside Sharkskin, a mid-strength grey. This smart bedroom remains balanced due to the warm grey undertones in each shade.

Wall/Trim: Brimstone, Salt III

Door/Trim: Salt IV

Ceiling: Clean White

Feature neutral wall paint alongside wallpapers for a harmonious space

The Architectural Colours offers a choice of complementary colours to accompany the Paint & Paper Library wallpapers. Apply the paint to woodwork, ceilings or opposing walls for an elegant tonal scheme.

Honesty – Temple creates an inviting kitchen space with a beautiful textural interest. Use the warm Stone family as complementary neutrals on the ceiling and units.

Ceiling: Stone I

Wall: Honesty – Temple

Left Wall and Architrave: Temple

Units: Stone II