Behind the Colour: Ammonite

Walls: Ammonite No.274 et Cornforth White No.228

THE ESSENTIALS 

Name and number: Ammonite No.274

Primer & Undercoat: White & Light Tones

Complementary White: Wevet

ABOUT AMMONITE

To anyone who’s spent time on the Jurassic Coast, the distinctive swirl of the ammonite will be a familiar acquaintance. Their fossils are a common sight along this stretch of coastline, which runs 95 miles from just south of Farrow & Ball HQ to Exmouth in Devon (and is also home to the namesake of Lulworth Blue!)

The original ammonites were marine molluscs who roamed the seas from the Devonian period until a mass extinction some 66 million years ago. Today, imprints of their shells are found in the sun-baked stones and cliffs of sites like Kimmeridge Bay. It’s these stones from which our own Ammonite takes its name and its versatile shade of light grey.

Fun fact: when Pliny the Elder first came across these fossilised creatures, he called them ammonis cornua (“horns of Ammon”) for their resemblance to the ram’s horns the Egyptian god Ammon was often depicted wearing. This resemblance is what gives ammonites the name we still use today.

HOW TO USE AMMONITE

One of the easiest ways to start a scheme is with one of our neutral groups. Ammonite comes from the Easy Neutrals group, which also features Cornforth White, Purbeck Stone and Wevet.

The shades in these groups can be used together in any combination, serving as a neutral foundation to be carried throughout your home or as a full scheme. Try the low-contrast option above for relaxing rooms, or this one below, with stronger accents, for a contemporary touch.

For a colour-led scheme, try Ammonite in a supporting rather than a starring role. It’s a delicate accompaniment to strong Stiffkey Blue and Off-Black that looks more considered than a pure bright white.

SEE HOW IT’S DONE

One of the best ways to find colour inspiration is through your fellow décor lovers. See how our users have brought an understated elegance to their walls, woodwork and furniture with Ammonite.