Lessons in Color
Colours from our history, still creating beautiful spaces today
Discover new episodes of Lessons in Color which feature Joa Studholme, Color Curator for Farrow & Ball, celebrating six timeless shades from our original color card.
Railings
More inky blue than black, Joa suggests Railings “for those looking for a dramatic punctuation of a darker colour in a room.” Alternatively, she uses it as “a contrast to the softness of a shade such as Setting Plaster.”
Hay
Farrow & Ball colors have always had an extraordinary response to changes in light as the day unfolds. This couldn’t be truer than with understated Hay - a yellow that glows softly rather than shouts, part of why Joa feels it is so timelessly appealing.
Mouse's Back
A restrained color drawing from tones originally used in the utility areas of historic houses. Joa describes it as working in a room “because it doesn’t beg for attention but rather works as a backdrop, letting the things you want to feature take center stage.”
Green Smoke
A smoky, green blue tone that comes with very personal memories for Joa. As she shared, “I used it to paint my little boy’s nursery 35 years ago - it just felt like the perfect grounding colour to welcome him to the world.”
Etruscan Red
A color of unmatched richness and unexpected opulence, inspired by the vibrant terracotta sculptures of an ancient civilisation. Discover why this tone has particular meaning for Joa, and how she continues to use it today.
Dead Salmon
Joa describes this color as having magical qualities as everyone sees it differently. Discover more about how she loves to use it throughout the home.


Work with Joa on your home’s personal palette
Joa has been with Farrow & Ball for over 25 years, during which she’s developed color ranges and consulted on design projects all over the world.
In addition, Joa has worked with countless Color Consultancy clients to transform their homes. Working with her is a wonderful opportunity to share your vision for your home with our original Color Consultant and makes for an extra-special experience.
Feel inspired by our full palette of colors
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