Georgian Paint Colours

When it comes to interior design, the Georgian period is one of the most important. Spanning more than 100 years, Georgian interiors saw many changes. Early period colour schemes were dominated by pea green paint and very pale blue, while later decades brought in dusky hues and pastel tones. 

Although preferences for paint colours changed during the Georgian era, the basic approach to interior decor didn't. In affluent households, high ceilings and ornate structural details was the norm. As such, a more muted palette was perfect for showcasing these elements in all their glory. 

As the Georgian era gave way to the Regency period, interior design became more opulent. Real gold leaf gilding and elaborate displays become more commonplace. However, those core Georgian paint colours never really fell out of favour. 

At Tikkurila, you'll find everything you need to put together an authentic Georgian paint scheme. Whether you're restoring period features in a historic property or simply want to capture the spirit of this enchanting era, we've got plenty of authentic and traditional colours for you to discover.

The Appeal of a Georgian Colour Scheme

The colours of the Georgian era have a reputation as being rather muted. Common shades included burgundy, pale blue and sage green. However, in later years, the average Georgian home embraced a much broader palette. 

While these colour schemes were perfect for showing off elegant interiors with high ceilings and traditional architectural details, they're also a good fit with more modern interiors. If you're turned off by neutrals and off-white colour schemes, authentic paint colours inspired by the Georgian period are the way to go. 

What Colours Are Associated With Georgian Décor?

Thinking about giving your home a Georgian-inspired overhaul? We've picked out some of our favourite paint colours that are ideal for an era-appropriate makeover. 

Green remained a popular colour choice throughout the Georgian period. During the early part of the era, muted greens were the preferred option. However, more daring hues like pea green became a staple during the later years. 

Serpentine V447 is a terrific choice for any Georgian-inspired layout. This medium sage green is underscored with a hint of grey. Perfect for freshening up a large lounge or dining room. 

Silk Road S440 is another authentic colour choice if you're eager to embrace the principles of Georgian design. This medium green has a hint of pale blue in the mix, meaning you can incorporate cooler tones into your decor scheme. 

Looking for the perfect colour for a dramatic dining room renovation? Jade V449 makes an instant impression with its cool green character and gorgeous grey undertones. 

Creams are another staple of Georgian design. They were commonly used in place of white to coat architectural features and room accents. However, you can also use them to paint entire walls if you're searching for a stylish alternative to neutral hues. 

A soft and delicate pale grey paint colour like Feather F487 is a first-rate choice for any Georgian-style space. Use it as an all-wall colour or turn to it to accent coving and panelling. 

On the hunt for an eye-catching alternative to white? Chalk F484 is a luxurious choice, with its delicate green undertones working well with earthy shades. 

Finally, there's Halo F462. This peachy neutral works well with just about anything. Use it liberally to revive an entire room, or reach for it when restoring period features. 

There's always room for blue in a Georgian space. One of the most era-appropriate colour families around, sky blue makes a fine addition to any period property. 

Forget Me Not H353 is a premium pastel that will freshen up dining rooms, living areas and bedrooms alike. Although a light blue, it's packed with pigment, making it a go-to for rooms that are long overdue for some attention in the design department. 

If you're looking for a more vivid shade, try Sky J356. This medium blue works well in rooms with higher ceilings and pairs perfectly with creamy neutrals. 

For a more serene interior, go with Cumulus Y354. This light blue instantly promotes a feeling of calm. Pair it with stone shades or add a layer of luxury with marble effect paintwork. 

Many of the best Georgian colours will look perfect at home in a more contemporary space. Mid greys are among the most versatile shades from the Georgian palette and are the ideal choice if you're unsure of whether period decor is right for your home. 

Use a traditional mid-grey like Atlas K497 as a solid starting point. You can keep things simple and stick to this as your signature colour, or play around with slightly lighter shades for a Georgian scheme with a tonal twist. 

Median X486 is another beautiful option. This light grey is a superior choice of neutral, with beige undertones bringing added complexity. 

Finally, think about Cloister V487 if you're aiming to create a more tranquil decor scheme. This cooling clay shade is a stunning alternative to medium blue. 

By the time the Georgian era came to a close, a more lively repertoire of paint colours was in circulation. Violent oranges might not seem like an easy fit with period properties, but these playful hues are definitely worth investigating. 

Tomato M316 is the way to go if you're looking to make an impression. This blood-orange hue is perfect for entertaining spaces like dining rooms. If you're worried about it overwhelming a smaller space, save it for a feature wall. 

If you want a more muted shade, try something like Folklore S315. This burnt orange is warm and rich, making it a great option for rooms that feel drab and uninviting. 

Finally, there's Harvest V406. This mid-tone orange is an ideal alternative to terracotta. Again, it's a great choice for dining spaces, but can also be used to decorate intimate reception rooms, snugs and lounges. 

What Other Elements Should I Consider When Incorporating Georgian Décor?

An authentic colour palette will go a long way in bringing the majesty of Georgian design to your home. However, there are countless other design elements you should think about. 

A classic Georgian interior should evoke a feeling of elegance, without straying into opulent territory. If you live in a period property, you may be able to restore existing mouldings and ornate architraves. If your space is lacking these elements, you can introduce imitation accents relatively cheaply. 

Your furniture choices should also be sympathetic to your colour palette. If you've opted for muted greens to paint your walls, use similar tones when picking out furniture and upholstery. You can still enhance your decor with the occasional splash of gold metallic paint, but you shouldn't veer too far from your core colours. 

Furniture in Georgian homes was a little different to the functional pieces of today. Instead of corner sofas, think chaise-longues. In place of coffee tables and display cabinets, a Georgian interior would have boasted things like built-in bookcases, drinks cabinets and card tables. 

Thankfully, there are more affordable ways you can give your interiors some Georgian character. Gold framed pictures are an easy way of bringing some sophistication to your walls, while silk damask and velvet upholstery can add texture and body to seating.