Restoring A Treasured Family Home to Its Former Glory

Restoring A Treasured Family Home to Its Former Glory

8 October 2025

Walls: Sudbury Yellow No.51 | Ceiling & Woodwork: Off-White No.3

Nestled in a peaceful hamlet in the North Tyne valley, is Greystead Rectory. Where it’s sat for over 200 years. While this picturesque property is a principal character in local lore (for one, it used to host retired chaplains from the Royal Navy), it’s also been a constant backdrop in the life of owner Anne Monroe. Having grown up there herself and then raising her children there too, it’s been firmly part of the family for over 75 years. 

Nobody could have been more perfectly placed to restore this historic home than Anne. As well as her deep love for this family heirloom, both Anne and her husband are art historians. Their rich understanding of Georgian decorating meant every colour, technique and pattern was thoughtfully considered to reflect the original character of this period property. At the same time, they made sure to leave their own stamp on the space too. 

With our timeless colours steeped in history, it’s a joy to see how beautifully Anne has used them to bring her home back to life. 


Kitchen

Light, bright and utterly inviting, the finished kitchen is exactly what Anne hoped for. It’s where the family spend most of their time together, so they wanted a space that was versatile, welcoming and, of course, sympathetic to the Georgian style. They made every decision with that in mind.

Cornforth White and Strong White create an airy backdrop for everything from rushed weekday breakfasts to rowdy weekend board games. Worsted on the kitchen cabinets adds a grounding contrast, which makes the rest of the room feel even brighter by comparison. It’s a balance of elegance and utility that would make even the most discerning Georgian designer smile.


Main Bedroom

Walls: Chinese Blue No.90 | Ceiling & Woodwork: Lime White No.1

This bedroom is a decorator’s dream. Flooded with light throughout the day, thanks to south-facing and east-facing windows, it would suit practically every shade. So, Anne and her husband could be bolder in their choices. Vibrant Chinese Blue reflects the Georgian fascination with vivid pigments. At the same time, it acts as a delightful surprise after the pared back palette of the kitchen. Using Lime White on the woodwork and ceiling softens the space and creates a classic, fresh feel.  


Sitting Room

Walls: Sudbury Yellow No.51 | Ceiling & Woodwork: Off-White No.3

If there’s one shade that conjures up the Georgian Era, it’s yellow. From the muted, earthy tones used in public rooms to the bolder, ‘party’ yellows used as statement shades, Anne knew she simply had to include a yellow in the home. Sudbury Yellow in the sitting room was the perfect choice.

The family use this room to relax together, as well as to host special occasions like Christmas, so they wanted a warm, elegant and inviting hue. This colour also looks particularly special when it catches the light, so candlelit dinners are quite the sight. 


Guest Bedroom

Walls: Cooking Apple Green No.32 | Ceiling & Woodwork: Lime White No.1

Unlike the vibrant Blue Bedroom, this bedroom was designed for complete calm. Anne wanted the room to refresh, revitalise and restore. We’d say it certainly ticks those boxes. Charming Cooking Apple Green brings a beautiful balance between an authentic, historic feel and a deep connection to nature. Paired with Lime White on the ceiling and trim, the space is in perfect harmony. 


The Next Chapter

Greystead Rectory has been a treasured part of Anne’s family for decades. But all good things come to an end. Now, the family are moving on to their next chapter and are looking for new owners to continue Greystead’s story. Find out more on the Finest Properties website.

Looking For More Inspiration?

Our blog is full of homes transformed by Farrow & Ball paint and paper. From period properties to art galleries, cottages to townhouses, browse them all and find inspiration to spark your imagination.