Heritage Paints & Listed Buildings

• 

  View Cart

  Select options / Details

  Heritage Natural Wall Paint – Graphenstone GCS Interior for Lime Plasters

  £5.50 – £222.50 Inc VAT
• 

  View Cart

  Select options / Details

  Natural Exterior Heritage House Paint – GCS Exterior Colour Eco Paint

  £5.50 – £257.00 Inc VAT
• 

  View Cart

  Select options / Details

  Air purifying Paint – Graphenstone Ambient Pro Photocatalytic

  £5.50 – £279.00 Inc VAT

Which paints can I paint Grade 2 Listed buildings with?

All of our Graphenstone paints are suitable for Grade II / Grade 2 listed houses. 

However the GrafClean Premium tends to give a more modern finish so for Heritage applications people tend to prefer the GCS Interior / GCS Exterior. 

GCS has a better SD rating and a very flat finish which looks more traditional, this is the product we usually specify for Churches, National Trust etc. The Ambient Pro+ will also be fine however it has a fairly limited colour range.

I’d need some more information (Substrate, desired colour etc…) to be able to give a basic specification but generally it would be 1 Coat of L42 Primer (diluted 50/50) followed by 2 Coats of GCS (GCS Interior or GCS Exterior).

Some common heritage colours include:

1. Soft whites and creams: These colours were widely used in Georgian and Regency architecture, particularly for the exteriors of stately homes and townhouses.
2. Sage greens and muted blues: These colours were popular in the Victorian era and can be seen on many Victorian terraced houses, particularly in the decorative woodwork, doors, and window frames.
3. Warm reds and browns: Inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement, these colours often feature in Edwardian architecture and represent a return to traditional craftsmanship and natural materials.
4. Deep greys and blacks: These colours were commonly used for ironwork and industrial buildings during the Industrial Revolution.

Navigating Planning Regulations and Listed Building Restrictions for Exterior Wall Colours in the UK

In the United Kingdom, planning regulations and listed building restrictions play a crucial role in maintaining the country's rich architectural heritage. These rules can impact homeowners' ability to change the exterior colour of their properties, particularly for those living in listed buildings or conservation areas. In this article, we will delve into the UK's planning regulations and listed building restrictions, and how they may influence your choice of exterior wall colours.

Planning Regulations in Conservation Areas

If your property is situated within a conservation area, you may need to obtain planning permission before making changes to your home's exterior walls. In these designated zones, local planning authorities enforce stricter regulations to protect the area's historical and architectural significance. Although the rules may vary between different local authorities, you are generally required to submit a planning application detailing your proposed changes, including the desired colour for your exterior walls. Local planning officers will then review your application, taking into consideration the impact on the area's visual harmony and historical character.

Listed Building Restrictions

Listed buildings are of significant architectural or historic interest and enjoy additional legal protection under UK law. There are three categories of listed buildings: Grade I (of exceptional interest), Grade II* (particularly important and more than special interest), and Grade II (of special interest). Owning a listed building brings with it certain responsibilities, and any alterations to the property's exterior, including changing the colour of the walls, may require Listed Building Consent from your local planning authority.

When applying for Listed Building Consent, you will need to provide detailed information about the proposed changes, including the specific paint colour and type you intend to use. The planning authority will assess the application based on the potential impact on the building's historic and architectural character. It is crucial to remember that making changes to a listed building without obtaining the necessary consent can result in legal penalties and enforcement action, so always consult your local planning authority before making any alterations.

Tips for Choosing Exterior Wall Colours for Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas

When selecting a colour for your home's exterior walls within a conservation area or for a listed building, it is important to consider the property's historical context and the surrounding environment. Here are some tips to guide your decision:

1. Research the history of your property and the area, as this can provide valuable insights into the original colours and materials used.
2. Consult your local planning authority for guidance on suitable colours and any specific restrictions that may apply to your property.
3. Choose colours that are in keeping with the architectural style and period of your home, as well as the overall streetscape.
4. Consider using traditional paint types, such as lime wash or mineral-based paints, which may be more appropriate for historic buildings.
5. Seek professional advice from a heritage consultant or architect with experience in working with listed buildings and conservation areas.

Navigating the planning regulations and listed building restrictions in the UK can be challenging, but it is essential for preserving the nation's architectural heritage. By understanding the rules and seeking professional guidance, you can select an exterior wall colour that not only enhances your home's appearance but also respects its historical context and complies with the necessary regulations.

What are heritage buildings?

Heritage buildings in the United Kingdom refer to structures of historical, architectural, or cultural significance that contribute to the nation's rich heritage. These buildings are valued for their unique character and the important stories they tell about the country's past. They can range from grand castles, stately homes, and ancient churches to more modest structures such as Victorian terraces, industrial buildings, and rural cottages.

Several factors contribute to a building's heritage status, including:

1. Architectural significance: Buildings with unique, innovative, or exemplary architectural styles or features are often considered heritage buildings. These structures may showcase the work of renowned architects or represent a specific period in architectural history.
2. Historical significance: Buildings that played a crucial role in the nation's history or were associated with important historical events or figures can be considered heritage buildings.
3. Cultural significance: Structures that contribute to the understanding and appreciation of the country's cultural identity, customs, and traditions can be part of the UK's heritage.
4. Age: Older buildings, particularly those dating back several centuries, are often considered heritage buildings due to their rarity and the insights they provide into the past.

Heritage buildings in the UK may be protected through several legal mechanisms, such as listing and conservation areas. Listed buildings are classified into three grades – Grade I (exceptional interest), Grade II* (particularly important and of more than special interest), and Grade II (of special interest). These buildings enjoy legal protection, and any alterations or repairs must be carried out with care and respect for the building's historic fabric.

In addition to individual listed buildings, local authorities may designate Conservation Areas – areas of special architectural or historic interest – to protect the character and appearance of the neighbourhood. Within these areas, stricter planning regulations apply to ensure that any changes, including alterations to the exterior of buildings, are in keeping with the area's distinctive character.

In summary, heritage buildings in the UK are structures of historical, architectural, or cultural importance that contribute to the nation's rich heritage. These buildings are often protected by law to ensure their preservation and ongoing appreciation for future generations.