Farrow and Ball's Whirlybird 309 is a serene and versatile shade that evokes the calming essence of nature, often referred to as sage. With its RGB composition of 173,189,163, it subtly blends hues of green and grey, creating a soft, muted tone that complements a variety of color palettes. This sophisticated color is perfect for interiors aiming to achieve a tranquil and balanced aesthetic.
Color Description
Whirlybird No. 309 is a lively, upbeat green color. It is a lighter version of Breakfast Room Green and is inspired by the papery winged seeds of trees.
Undertones
The color has a slight yellow and blue undertone, as indicated by its Lab values (L*: 74.06, a*: -8.75, b*: 11.87), which suggest a balanced but slightly warmer green tone.
Color Values
- Lab: L* 74.06, a* -8.75, b*: 11.87
- RGB: 172, 187, 160
- CMYK: Not explicitly provided, but can be derived from RGB values
- LRV (Light Reflectance Value): Approximately 47
Usage
Whirlybird No. 309 can be used in various applications:
- Interior painting with Estate Emulsion, which has a very matt, chalky finish.
- Exterior painting with Exterior Eggshell, suitable for wood and metal surfaces, providing long-lasting color and flexibility against changing weather conditions.
Atmosphere
This color creates an upbeat and lively atmosphere, making it suitable for spaces where a cheerful and energetic vibe is desired.
Farrow and Ball Whirlybird 309 Color Alternative
Farrow and Ball Whirlybird 309 remains a popular choice for its unique blend of hues and subtle depth, yet several alternatives can offer varied expressions of a similar aesthetic. Little Greene Aquamarine 138 provides a refreshing twist with its vibrant, cool tone, while Benjamin Moore Saybrook Sage HC-114 introduces a soft, earthy quality ideal for creating a serene atmosphere. Additionally, Benjamin Moore Sage Wisdom CSP-775 delivers a nuanced complexity and timeless appeal, ensuring each option stands out while resonating with the characteristic charm of Farrow and Ball Whirlybird 309.
Bathroom
For a bathroom, Farrow and Ball's Whirlybird 309 offers a distinctive option that may fall short in performance due to its specific properties. The recommended primary choice is Modern Emulsion, which is ideal for moisture-prone areas thanks to its water-based composition, excellent washability, and protection against mould, ensuring effective resistance to scuffs.
If opting for Whirlybird 309, it is crucial to supplement it with a suitable primer and undercoat to optimize adhesion and durability. Pairing it with complementary tones and crisp whites helps maintain a balanced, fresh look, ensuring the overall finish performs well in a high-humidity environment.
Bedroom
Farrow and Ball Whirlybird 309 is an excellent choice for a bedroom color scheme, fostering a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. This hue harmonizes beautifully with complementary shades like Blueblood and Fancy Tipper, creating a refined, chalky finish that enhances both walls and ceilings, particularly in low-traffic spaces.
Illuminated by morning light, it pairs seamlessly with whites such as James White to produce a cohesive, stylish look. The overall effect is a tranquil and restful setting, ideal for a bedroom designed to promote relaxation and peace.
Kitchen
For a kitchen color scheme, Farrow and Ball Whirlybird 309 offers an excellent option that brings warmth and modernity to the space. Its natural ability to complement whites such as Beverly and James White makes it suitable for walls, cabinets, or as an accent to foster an inviting atmosphere.
With a range of finishes available, this color can be tailored to various kitchen elements, ensuring that walls, ceilings, and cabinetry are all harmoniously refreshed. One particular finish stands out for its robust stain resistance, making it a smart choice for areas that experience high usage.
Living Room
Farrow and Ball Whirlybird 309 is an excellent choice for living rooms, creating a calming environment with its refined character. It harmonizes well with complementary colors like Blueblood and Fancy Tipper to form a sophisticated palette that elevates the space’s overall mood.
This shade is available in a range of finishes designed to suit different areas; smoother, less busy rooms benefit from a finish with a subtle sheen, while more active spaces perform best with a robust, washable option that resists mould. For wood and metal surfaces, specially formulated finishes offer enhanced durability and stain resistance, and using a mid-tone primer paired with a complementary light shade ensures the most effective application.
Outdoor
For outdoor home applications, Farrow & Ball’s Whirlybird 309 presents an appealing option although it is not listed among the brand’s finishes specifically formulated for exteriors. This means it isn’t recommended as a primary exterior paint color without appropriate adjustments.
If you choose to use this hue outdoors, it is advised to pair it with an exterior-friendly finish such as the Exterior Eggshell finish, which is designed for wood and metal surfaces. This finish provides a satin appearance and offers flexibility, breathability, and water-resistance, helping to shield against fungi and algae while ensuring effective coverage and manageable drying and recoat times.
