Farrow and Ball's Old White No. 4 is a sophisticated shade that exudes a timeless elegance, embodying a subtle blend of green and gray undertones rather than a conventional beige. This particular hue, with its rich RGB composition of 207, 195, 173, offers a versatile and neutral backdrop that beautifully complements both traditional and contemporary interiors. Its depth and character make it an ideal choice for creating a serene atmosphere, enhancing the architectural features of any space it inhabits.
Color Description
Farrow & Ball Old White No. 4 is a soft, grey-green color. It is described as a historic and refined shade that can appear as an understated green, particularly in north-facing rooms, but takes on a more classic grey tone in well-lit spaces.
Undertones
The color has a muted, green undertone that becomes more pronounced in rooms with less sunlight. In north-facing rooms or under overcast conditions, the green undertone is more evident, while in well-lit spaces, it leans towards a grey undertone. Additionally, the color can take on a bluer cast in the evening or in low-light conditions.
Color Values
The RGB values for Old White No. 4 are 199, 191, 171. This indicates a warm, muted tone with a slight green bias.
Usage
Old White No. 4 is suitable for interior walls and ceilings and can be used in various settings, from the drawing room of a period house to the kitchen of a modern family home. It is available in different sheen levels, including a very matt (2% gloss) Estate Emulsion, making it versatile for different decorative needs.
Atmosphere
This color injects a softness and warmth into a room, making it ideal for creating a welcoming and charming atmosphere. It adds character and avoids the soullessness that can come with very grey colors, especially in new build rooms. The color's ability to change with lighting conditions adds a dynamic and interesting element to the space.
Farrow and Ball Old White 4 Color Alternative
Farrow and Ball Old White 4 is renowned for its timeless character, inspiring designers to seek alternatives that capture a similar refined essence. Tikkurila Muscovite X484, Tikkurila Castle J484, and Tikkurila Dream X459 offer distinct yet complementary options that reflect the versatile allure of Farrow and Ball Old White 4. These colors provide a range of appealing nuances, ensuring that whether aiming for a classic or contemporary aesthetic, there is an alternative perfectly suited to elevate any space.
Bathroom
For a bathroom, Farrow and Ball's Old White 4 offers a pleasing aesthetic while providing a clean, crisp backdrop. However, pairing this color with a finish that withstands a moist environment is crucial to maintain its appeal over time.
To achieve lasting durability and ease of maintenance, using a specially formulated finish designed for damp conditions is key. Modern Emulsion is engineered to combat moisture and condensation, offering a fully wipeable and washable surface that ensures the bathroom remains both beautiful and practical in a challenging setting.
Bedroom
Farrow and Ball Old White 4 is a refined choice for a bedroom color that gracefully shifts with different lighting conditions. When bathed in ample natural light, it presents a classic grey hue, while in less sunlit environments it reveals a soft, green undertone.
This adaptable shade works beautifully when paired with cool tones such as Light Blue or warmer shades like London Stone, creating an inviting and layered atmosphere. Bold accents like Rectory Red or monochromatic touches of Pitch Blue can further enhance the room's character, resulting in a design that evolves dynamically throughout the day.
Kitchen
For a kitchen color scheme, Farrow and Ball Old White 4 brings a refined and sophisticated ambiance that complements both traditional and modern designs. Its behavior shifts with lighting: in well-illuminated spaces, it maintains a timeless, neutral appearance, whereas in dimmer settings, a subtle green undertone emerges, adding depth to the overall look.
This hue pairs beautifully with a spectrum of accents, from bold contrasts to gentler tones that create a balanced and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, it is available in finishes engineered for high-performance, offering durability and ease of cleaning in areas where kitchen use is at its most demanding.
Living Room
Farrow and Ball Old White 4 is an adaptable living room color that presents a classic gray tone in well-lit spaces and transitions to a subtle green tint in settings with less natural light. Its shifting nuances throughout the day make it a dynamic choice for both traditional and contemporary interiors.
This refined shade harmonizes with a wide spectrum of complementary tones and can be applied across walls, furniture, or trim to create a serene and inviting ambiance. Its ability to complement both cool and warm elements helps craft an environment that is both timeless and engaging.
Outdoor
Farrow & Ball’s Old White 4 is a home outdoor color that enhances exteriors with tailored finishes designed for durability and protection. The Exterior Eggshell finish offers a subtle sheen and is engineered for breathability, water resistance, and defense against algae and fungi, making it an excellent choice for wood and metal cladding. Its flexible, resilient nature helps it withstand changing weather conditions while resisting flaking, peeling, and fading over an extended period.
The Full Gloss finish provides a high-shine, water-based option that is both washable and highly durable, suitable for elevating outdoor surfaces with a touch of glamour. Both formulations are water-based, quick-drying, and low in odour and VOCs, ensuring an environmentally friendly application that is safe to use around children and pets. However, they are not recommended for highly alkaline, very porous surfaces, or exterior plastic and decking.
