A bespoke heritage colour scheme created by the experts at Crown Paints has helped to breathe new life into one of Manchester University’s most iconic accommodation buildings.

Located in the heart of the University’s Fallowfield Campus, the Grade II listed Ashburne Hall is one of the earliest examples of a purpose-built hall of residence and has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment programme. Members of Crown Paint’s in-house specification and colour service teams played a crucial role in devising a paint palette that combined some of Crown Trade’s most popular products with an attractive and sympathetic colour scheme.

Professional painting contractor ER Williams was appointed to undertake the redecoration of the hall’s grand dining room, which is used by the resident students and is also available to hire for functions and weddings. Considering the architectural style of the hall and its requirement to meet the needs of the new generation of students who reside there, Crown’s colour service team created a selection of different colour palettes for the University to choose from. Each comprised a mix of authentic heritage colours, and the specified scheme featured rich earthy tones of browns and greys on the walls and ceilings, with a clean brilliant white chosen for the architrave and skirting boards.

To minimise disruption and create an easy to maintain finish, Crown Trade’s quick-drying and low-odour water-based Acrylic Eggshell was applied to the broad wall areas. To add contrast, Crown Trade’s Full Gloss was applied to the trim areas and the attractive low-sheen finish of Crown Trade’s Matt Vinyl made it the perfect choice for use on the hall’s attractive ceiling and to accentuate the original cornice and panelling details.

Commenting, Crown’s specification sales manager Richard Braithwaite said: “This was a great scheme to be involved with and one that showcases the expertise of our colour service team. The product specification, which features some of our most popular and trusted products, has given the level of durability that is required within a busy dining hall. This alongside the carefully considered colour palette that was devised to complement the historical character of the building, has created a truly stunning room that the students of Manchester University will be able to enjoy for many years to come.”