Three Questions with Our Original Colour Consultant

Regular readers of The Chromologist will no doubt have seen our most recent chat with Farrow & Ball Colour Curator Joa Studholme, all about her brand new book, Recipes for Decorating. But long before even her first title, How to Decorate, hit the bookshelves and coffee tables of Farrow & Ball fans back in 2016, Joa was busy making over spaces at home and abroad as our original Colour Consultant.

These days, we have Colour Consultants working from Farrow & Ball showrooms and select locations across Europe and North America, paying visits to those who’d like an extra helping hand in creating their dream home. Considering everything from a room’s architecture and light to how it’s used, and even when, our colour experts put their design backgrounds and knowledge of our palette to good use during these in-home sessions.

Needless to say, the life of a Colour Consultant is a busy one, so in a rare lull between consultations and colour talks, we were thrilled to catch up with Joa once more. This time, it was for some quickfire questions about the day-to-day life of a Colour Consultant, plus her top tips for new schemes and colour-shy clients.

Tell us a little about the homes you visit from day to day

Excitingly, I never know where I’ll be visiting next. It might be an airy barn conversion or a compact basement flat. But when it comes to colour, the considerations are the same whatever the size or style of a home.

Kitchen painted in Sulking Room Pink No.295 | Modern Emulsion and Paean Black No.294 | Modern Eggshell

What do you consider when suggesting a scheme?

I first think about the light and spend time understanding how and when the room is used. Next is the look our client is hoping to achieve. Colour consultancy is very much about interpreting what each homeowner wants rather than persuading them into outlandish combinations. I then list every architectural detail in the room, from skirting and picture rails to skylights and flooring, as every element has equal importance when creating a scheme.

What advice do you give to those who are less confident with colour?

Go slowly and start small! If you’re wary of colour or pattern then introduce it into the interior of a dresser, bookcase or cupboard first. When you come across a hidden hue it can’t help but make you smile.

GIVE IN-HOME COLOUR CONSULTANCY A TRY

Thinking of enlisting a helping hand in transforming your interiors? Visit our colour consultancy section to find out more about our in-home service, make an enquiry through our online form, or step into your nearest showroom for a chat with our colour experts.