Fired Earth launches National Trust Paint Collection

Paint colours used in National Trust properties are much lauded and this new paint collection by Fired Earth, in association with the Trust, is most welcome, as Fired Earth adds to its already highly popular range of paints Colour by Kevin McCloud.

INSPIRATION FROM UNEXPECTED PLACES

The palette of thirty-six colours is inspired by historic houses and so it comes as no surprise that you'll find a Felbrigg White, a Barrington Red and a Belton Boudoir amongst the collection. Drawing inspiration from the Trust's archives and organic earth shades of the past, the palette is subtle and harmonious, offering a rich and sometimes chalky finish. Colours have been found in unexpected places. Cooks Cream was inspired by the shade of original shelving found inside a cupboard at Upton House in Warwickshire.

Christine Sitwell, the Trust's Paintings and Painted Surfaces Conservation Adviser said, 'Colour is everywhere in the National Trust, from the smallest detail of plasterwork in a huge ceiling to the pure colour of white snapdragons against a lichen-covered wall in the garden.'

Looking at the colour card, the palette is definitely muted. It's discreet but you can bet your bottom dollar that furniture and paintings would look great against any of the shades, working equally well in a traditional or contemporary interior.

APPROVED BY THE NATIONAL TRUST

This paint collection is the only one approved and authorised by the National Trust. It has been developed to meet ethical and environmental standards of both Fired Earth and the Trust. The paint is available in two finishes, a hardwearing emulsion and tougher acrylic eggshell. The paint is competitively priced and will be available from 17th May 2010 at Fired Earth's 56 stores, independent stockists and online at www.firedearth.com.

WATCH THIS SPACE

Come the autumn, Fired Earth will launch a tile collection in collaboration with the National Trust.

5 May 10