Laura Ashley Ivory Paint

Transforming Spaces with the Perfect Neutral: My Journey with Laura Ashley’s Signature Shade

As I stood in my living room, surrounded by paint swatches and design magazines scattered across the floor, I found myself drawn again and again to that perfect ivory tone. Not stark white, not too creamy, but that elusive, timeless shade that would transform my space into the elegant, airy sanctuary I’d been envisioning. That’s when I discovered Laura Ashley Ivory paint – and my home renovation journey took a beautiful turn.

After extensive research and completely repainting my entire home (yes, every single room!), I’ve compiled everything you need to know about this versatile neutral. Whether you’re considering a small accent wall or a complete home makeover, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Laura Ashley’s signature ivory shade.

What Makes Laura Ashley Ivory Special?

Laura Ashley has long been synonymous with classic English design, and their ivory paint embodies that timeless aesthetic perfectly. When I first applied it to my walls, I was immediately struck by its subtle complexity. Laura Ashley Ivory isn’t just another white paint – it’s a sophisticated neutral with remarkable depth that creates an atmosphere of refined elegance in any space.

What makes this shade truly special is its versatility. In my north-facing office, it reads as a soft, warm ivory that makes the space feel cozy yet professional. In my south-facing living room, it takes on a brighter, more luminous quality that amplifies the natural light. This chameleon-like ability to adapt to different lighting conditions makes it an exceptional choice for whole-home color schemes.

Where to Purchase Laura Ashley Ivory Paint

When I began my painting project, finding the perfect retailer was my first hurdle. Laura Ashley paint is distributed through several channels, each with their own advantages:

Homebase

My primary recommendation is Homebase, which serves as the main distributor for Laura Ashley paints in the UK. Their staff is generally knowledgeable about the product line, and they frequently run promotions that can save you a significant amount, especially when purchasing multiple tins for larger projects.

Laura Ashley Official Website

The official Laura Ashley website offers the full range of their paint collection, including every available finish of their ivory shade. While sometimes slightly more expensive than other retailers, they occasionally offer exclusive discounts to newsletter subscribers (which is how I saved 15% on my order).

Independent Paint Retailers

Don’t overlook independent paint and decorating shops, which sometimes carry Laura Ashley paints. I discovered a local shop that provided exceptional personalized advice about application techniques specific to this paint formula.

Online Marketplaces

Amazon and other online marketplaces occasionally stock Laura Ashley paints, though I’d recommend caution here. In my experience, the color representation on screen can be misleading, and there’s always the risk of receiving older stock.

Available Finishes: Finding the Perfect Sheen

Laura Ashley Ivory comes in several finishes, each suited to different applications throughout your home. Understanding the differences helped me select the perfect option for each room:

Matt Emulsion

This is the finish I chose for my living room and bedroom walls. The soft, velvety appearance creates a sophisticated look that hides minor imperfections beautifully. The matt finish absorbs rather than reflects light, giving a deeper, richer appearance to the ivory tone.

The matt emulsion is particularly effective in older properties (like my Victorian terrace) where walls may have subtle imperfections. I found it exceptionally forgiving on my less-than-perfect plasterwork.

Silk Emulsion

For my hallway, I opted for the silk emulsion. This finish has a subtle sheen that reflects just enough light to make the space feel brighter and more open. It’s also more durable than the matt finish, standing up well to the occasional brush against the wall as we navigate through this narrower space.

The silk creates a slightly more contemporary look while still retaining the warmth of the ivory tone. It’s washable too, which has already proved invaluable after a mishap with my son’s art project.

Eggshell

For woodwork throughout my home, the eggshell finish in Laura Ashley Ivory was perfect. It provides a subtle sheen that’s more durable than matt but not as reflective as gloss. I used it on all my skirting boards, door frames, and window sills.

The eggshell finish creates a beautiful cohesion when used alongside the matt walls, maintaining the color consistency while providing the necessary durability for these high-contact surfaces.

Gloss

While I personally preferred the more subtle eggshell for my woodwork, the gloss finish is available for those who want a higher shine. This would be particularly effective in creating contrast in more traditional interiors or for statement pieces of furniture.

Cost Considerations: Budgeting Your Project

Laura Ashley Ivory paint sits in the premium paint category, and this is reflected in its price point. However, after using both budget and premium paints throughout my decorating career, I’ve found that the additional cost is justified by the quality and coverage.

A 2.5L tin of matt emulsion typically ranges between £30-£38, depending on retailer and any ongoing promotions. The eggshell and gloss finishes command a slightly higher price, usually between £35-£45 for the same volume.

For my three-bedroom house, I required:

• 4 tins of 2.5L matt emulsion for the main living spaces (£140)
• 2 tins of 2.5L silk emulsion for the hallway and high-traffic areas (£70)
• 2 tins of 2.5L eggshell for all woodwork (£80)

Total paint cost: approximately £290

While this initially seemed expensive compared to budget brands, the superior coverage meant I needed fewer coats, saving both time and additional paint purchases. Most areas required just two coats, compared to the three or four I’ve needed with cheaper alternatives in the past.

Application Surfaces: Versatility Across Your Home

Walls and Ceilings

Laura Ashley Ivory performs beautifully on both walls and ceilings. For my ceilings, I chose the matt finish for its light-diffusing properties, which helped make my rooms feel taller and more spacious.

One application tip I discovered: when painting both walls and ceilings the same ivory shade, paint the ceiling first and overlap slightly onto the walls. This makes cutting in the walls much easier and creates a seamless transition between surfaces.

Kitchens and Bathrooms

For moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms, the silk finish provides additional protection. I initially worried about using ivory in my family bathroom, but the silk formulation has held up remarkably well to the humidity and occasional splashes.

In my kitchen, I paired ivory walls with a tiled backsplash. The paint has proven surprisingly resistant to cooking steam and the occasional splatter, though I would recommend regular gentle cleaning to maintain its pristine appearance.

Woodwork and Furniture

One of the joys of Laura Ashley Ivory is its versatility across different surfaces. Beyond walls, I’ve used the eggshell finish to upcycle several pieces of furniture, including a dated pine dresser that now looks elegantly shabby-chic in my dining room.

The paint adheres well to properly prepared wooden surfaces, though I strongly recommend using a specific primer first. I used Laura Ashley’s own primer for consistency, but any good-quality wood primer would work.

Sampling Before Committing: A Crucial Step

Before committing to painting entire rooms, I highly recommend purchasing sample pots. Laura Ashley offers 100ml sample pots for around £4-5, which is a worthwhile investment to avoid expensive mistakes.

I painted A4-sized sample patches on different walls in each room, observing how the color changed throughout the day as the natural light shifted. This process revealed how dramatically different the ivory appeared in my north-facing bedroom (warmer, more yellow undertones visible) versus my south-facing living room (brighter, more reflective).

A useful technique I discovered was painting the sample onto a piece of foam board rather than directly onto the wall. This allowed me to move the sample around the room and place it next to furniture, fabrics, and existing elements to check for compatibility.

Complementary Color Schemes: Creating a Cohesive Palette

The beauty of Laura Ashley Ivory lies in its exceptional versatility as a base for various color schemes. Through my own experimentation and consultation with a color specialist, I’ve found several combinations that work particularly well:

Monochromatic Elegance

For a sophisticated, cohesive look, I paired Ivory with deeper shades from the same color family. In my dining room, I used Ivory for three walls but created a subtle focal point with Laura Ashley’s “Natural Canvas” (a slightly deeper, warmer neutral) on the chimney breast. The result is layered and sophisticated without being stark or contrasting.

Cool Contrasts

In my study, I wanted a more dramatic look. Here, Ivory walls are complemented by deep navy blue bookshelves and accents. The contrast is striking yet still elegant, with the ivory providing a light, bright backdrop that prevents the darker color from overwhelming the relatively small space.

Warm Accents

My personal favorite combination pairs Ivory with warm terracotta and rust accents. In my living room, Ivory walls create a light, bright canvas, while terracotta cushions, a rust-colored throw, and natural wood elements add warmth and depth. The effect is particularly beautiful in the evening light, when the space feels both cozy and elegant.

Environmental Considerations: A Responsible Choice

As someone increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of my home decisions, I was pleased to discover that Laura Ashley paints, including their Ivory shade, are water-based and formulated to be low in Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).

The paint carries a VOC rating of “Minimal” (less than 0.29%), which means significantly reduced harmful emissions compared to traditional solvent-based paints. This was particularly important to me as I suffer from occasional asthma, and I noticed significantly less paint smell and respiratory irritation during application.

The low-VOC formulation doesn’t compromise on quality or performance. I found the coverage excellent and the durability comparable to higher-VOC alternatives I’ve used in the past.

All Laura Ashley paint tins are recyclable, though you’ll need to ensure they’re completely empty and dry before placing them in your recycling bin. Check with your local authority for specific requirements, as these can vary by location.

The Color Psychology of Ivory: Creating Atmosphere

The choice of ivory rather than pure white for my home was deliberate, based on the psychological effects of color. Ivory creates a sense of warmth and welcome that stark whites can lack, while still maintaining that sought-after brightness and spaciousness.

In my home office, where I needed a space conducive to both creativity and focus, the ivory walls create a gentle, non-distracting background that keeps the space feeling professional yet not clinical. I’ve found my productivity noticeably improved compared to the previous, more intensely colored scheme.

In bedrooms, ivory promotes a sense of calm and tranquility without the starkness of pure white. Combined with soft textiles and gentle lighting, it creates a genuinely restful environment that has measurably improved my sleep quality.

Coverage and Application: Professional Results

One of the most impressive aspects of Laura Ashley Ivory paint is its coverage. Most areas in my home required just two coats for perfect, streak-free coverage, even when covering darker colors. This was a pleasant surprise, as I’d budgeted time and materials for three coats throughout.

For the best application results, I found these techniques particularly effective:

1. Proper preparation is essential. I thoroughly cleaned all surfaces, filled imperfections, and sanded smooth before applying a coat of quality primer. This extra preparation time paid dividends in the final finish.
2. Using high-quality tools makes a significant difference. I invested in a good roller with a medium nap (perfect for the slight texture of my walls) and synthetic brushes for cutting in. The improved application more than justified the additional cost of better tools.
3. The paint has a relatively thick consistency, which helps with coverage but can take some getting used to. I found it applied best when I worked in methodical sections, maintaining a “wet edge” to avoid visible join lines.
4. Between coats, I lightly sanded any minor imperfections with a fine sandpaper, then wiped down with a slightly damp cloth to remove dust before applying the second coat. This additional step created a noticeably superior finish.

Durability in High-Traffic Areas: Standing the Test of Time

After living with Laura Ashley Ivory throughout my home for over a year, I can confidently report on its durability. In high-traffic areas like the hallway and stairwell, where the silk finish was used, the walls have maintained their appearance exceptionally well, with only minor scuff marks that clean off easily with a damp cloth.

The matt finish in my living room has proven slightly more susceptible to marking, particularly near the sofa where people tend to rest their heads. However, careful cleaning with a soft cloth has removed most marks without damaging the finish.

For homes with young children or pets, I would recommend the silk finish in areas likely to see heavy use or occasional impacts. The slightly more washable surface makes maintenance significantly easier without compromising too much on the aesthetic appeal of the matt finish.

User Reviews and Experiences: The Community Verdict

Before committing to Laura Ashley Ivory for my entire home, I extensively researched other users’ experiences. The overwhelming consensus aligned with my subsequent experience:

Most reviewers praised the paint’s coverage and color consistency, with particular appreciation for how the shade adapts to different lighting conditions throughout the day. Several reviewers specifically mentioned its performance in period properties, where the soft tone complements traditional architectural features beautifully.

Some reviewers noted that the matt finish can be slightly challenging to clean, recommending the silk finish for family homes or areas likely to need regular cleaning. This aligned with my own findings and influenced my decision to use silk in high-traffic areas.

The most frequent criticism concerned price point, with some users questioning whether the premium cost represented good value. However, most acknowledged that the superior coverage (requiring fewer coats) and the durability of the finish justified the initial investment over time.

Working with Dark Accents: Creating Dynamic Spaces

One of my favorite design approaches has been pairing Laura Ashley Ivory with carefully chosen dark accents. This creates a dynamic tension that prevents spaces from feeling bland or flat.

In my living room, ivory walls are complemented by a deep charcoal sofa and black metal light fixtures. The contrast is striking but not harsh, with the warmth of the ivory softening the potential starkness of the darker elements.

In the kitchen, ivory cabinets are paired with black hardware and a dark granite countertop. Again, the ivory prevents the space from feeling too harsh or contemporary, maintaining a welcoming feel despite the high-contrast elements.

This approach works particularly well because Laura Ashley Ivory has sufficient depth and warmth to stand up to strong contrasts without appearing washed out or flat.

Long-Term Performance: Fade Resistance

After more than a year, including a summer with significant direct sunlight in my south-facing rooms, I’ve been impressed by the fade resistance of Laura Ashley Ivory. Even in areas that receive several hours of direct sunlight daily, I’ve observed no noticeable color change or patchiness.

This is particularly impressive given that lighter colors can sometimes reveal uneven fading more noticeably than deeper tones. The quality of the pigments used in the formulation clearly contributes to this superior performance.

I would still recommend using good quality blinds or curtains in very sunny rooms, as even the best paint will eventually show some effects from constant direct UV exposure.

Creative Applications: Beyond Basic Walls

While Laura Ashley Ivory creates a beautiful backdrop as a simple wall color, I’ve also experimented with more creative applications throughout my home:

Stenciling

In my guest bathroom, I used a subtle damask stencil with the same ivory paint in a contrasting finish (matt walls with silk stencil pattern). The result is an elegant, tone-on-tone effect that adds interest without overwhelming the small space.

The paint worked beautifully for this technique, maintaining crisp edges without bleeding under the stencil. I found it helpful to have the paint slightly thicker than usual for stenciling, so I left the lid off for about 30 minutes before beginning to allow some natural thickening.

Color Blocking

In my daughter’s room, we created a playful yet sophisticated look by color blocking with ivory and a soft blush pink. The ivory occupies the upper two-thirds of the wall, with the pink creating a dado effect below. The clean, crisp line between the two colors looks particularly effective.

Furniture Upcycling

Perhaps my most successful project was upcycling a dark mahogany wardrobe with Laura Ashley Ivory eggshell. After proper preparation (thorough cleaning, light sanding, and priming), the paint adhered beautifully to create a transformed piece that now looks custom-made for our bedroom.

Comparison with Other Neutrals: Finding Your Perfect Shade

Before settling on Laura Ashley Ivory, I compared it extensively with other popular neutral shades. This comparison helped me understand what makes this particular ivory special:

Compared to Farrow & Ball’s “White Tie,” Laura Ashley Ivory has slightly warmer undertones and less yellow, creating a more versatile backdrop that works with both cool and warm accent colors.

Against Dulux’s “Jasmine White,” Laura Ashley Ivory appears more sophisticated and complex, with greater depth that becomes apparent as the light changes throughout the day.

When placed alongside a pure white (I used Benjamin Moore’s “White Diamond”), the subtle warmth and sophistication of Laura Ashley Ivory becomes immediately apparent. The pure white appears stark and one-dimensional by comparison.

This comparison process confirmed that Laura Ashley Ivory occupies a sweet spot in the neutral spectrum – warm enough to feel welcoming but not so creamy that it limits your other design choices.

Style Compatibility: Traditional to Contemporary

A particular strength of Laura Ashley Ivory is its remarkable adaptability across different design styles. In my own home, which blends traditional architectural features with more contemporary furnishings, it creates a seamless backdrop that unifies these potentially disparate elements.

In rooms where I’ve embraced a more traditional aesthetic, with antique furniture and classic patterns, the ivory provides historical authenticity without the yellowed look that can make spaces feel dated.

Conversely, in my more minimalist kitchen, the same ivory takes on a more contemporary feel, especially when paired with clean lines and metallic accents. The subtle warmth prevents the minimalism from feeling cold or sterile.

For those embracing rustic or farmhouse styles, Laura Ashley Ivory complements natural woods and textural elements beautifully, enhancing the organic, lived-in quality that these styles celebrate.

Coordinating with Fabrics and Wallpapers

Laura Ashley’s heritage as a fabric and wallpaper company means their paint colors are specifically designed to coordinate with their other products – a significant advantage when creating a cohesive scheme.

In my bedroom, I paired ivory walls with Laura Ashley’s “Josette” wallpaper on the feature wall behind the bed. The ivory in the paint perfectly picks out the background tone in the wallpaper, creating a harmonious look that appears thoughtfully curated.

For those not using Laura Ashley wallpapers or fabrics, I found the ivory works exceptionally well with natural linens, particularly those in oatmeal, soft gray, or pale blue. The slight warmth of the ivory balances beautifully with the texture of natural fabrics.

Primers and Preparation: Setting the Foundation

The right preparation makes a substantial difference to the final result with any paint, but particularly with lighter shades like ivory, where imperfections can be more visible.

For my project, I used Laura Ashley’s own Wall Primer & Undercoat before applying the ivory topcoats. This purpose-designed primer created an ideal base, improving adhesion and ensuring color consistency across different surface materials.

For woodwork, I used their specific Wood Primer & Undercoat, which provided excellent stain-blocking properties – particularly important when covering darker woods or areas with tannin that might bleed through lighter colors.

If switching from a dark color to ivory, I would recommend two coats of primer to ensure complete coverage and color accuracy. The investment in proper preparation prevents disappointment with the final result and actually saves money by potentially reducing the number of topcoats required.

Conclusion: Creating Timeless Elegance with Laura Ashley Ivory

After living with Laura Ashley Ivory throughout my home for over a year, I remain convinced it was the perfect choice. Its versatility across different lighting conditions, design styles, and applications has created a cohesive yet interesting backdrop for everyday life.

What makes Laura Ashley Ivory truly special is its ability to create spaces that feel simultaneously fresh and timeless – bright and airy without the starkness of pure white, warm and welcoming without the heaviness of deeper colors.

While the initial investment may be higher than budget paint options, the superior coverage, durability, and timeless appeal have proven to be excellent value over time. I’ve received countless compliments on the “feeling” of my home, with visitors often commenting on how comfortable and welcoming the space feels without being able to pinpoint exactly why – testimony to the subtle but significant impact of choosing the right neutral.

Whether you’re renovating a period property, updating a contemporary space, or simply refreshing a single room, Laura Ashley Ivory deserves serious consideration. Its remarkable adaptability across different contexts makes it not just a safe choice, but a sophisticated one that will stand the test of time as trends come and go.

As I look around my completed home, bathed in the gentle, luminous ivory that changes subtly throughout the day, I’m reminded that sometimes the most impactful design choices are the most subtle ones – creating not just a beautiful backdrop, but a feeling of home.