This rich, earthy damson purple has an unmistakable presence. Deep and dramatic without ever feeling overpowering, Rodmell Chalk Paint ™ is one of those colours that instantly gives furniture a sense of history and importance. It can make a simple pine chest feel elegant, breathe new life into a tired sideboard or turn a painted kitchen island into the focal point of the room.

The story behind Rodmell

Rodmell takes its name from the picturesque Sussex village of Rodmell, just a stone’s throw from Charleston Farmhouse – the extraordinary home of artists Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant and the creative heart of the Bloomsbury Group.

Charleston has long been one of Annie Sloan’s greatest inspirations. It is a house unlike any other, where walls, furniture, fireplaces and even doors have been painted on in a joyful expression of artistic freedom. The Bloomsbury artists believed beautiful design should be part of everyday life, not confined to galleries, and their joyful, fearless use of colour continues to inspire Annie today.

Rodmell captures that same spirit of creativity – a colour with depth, confidence and individuality.

Click here to read our Bloomsbury inspired interior blog.

A Colour with a Royal History

Purple has always been associated with luxury, creativity and imagination.

For centuries, purple dyes were incredibly rare and expensive to produce, making them a colour reserved for royalty, nobility and the wealthiest members of society. Even today, darker purples retain that feeling of richness and sophistication.

Rodmell has all the elegance of a traditional purple, but its warm, earthy undertones stop it feeling bright or overpowering. Instead, it feels wonderfully grounded, making it easy to live with while still bringing a touch of drama to your home.

Photo Credit: Olya Upcycle

Why We Love Rodmell

One of the things that makes Rodmell so special is that it constantly changes with the light.

In bright daylight you’ll notice its beautiful plum and berry tones, while in the evening it becomes deeper, moodier and almost velvety. This complexity gives painted furniture real depth and character, making each piece feel unique. It is bold enough to make a statement but subtle enough to work beautifully alongside antiques, natural wood, linen and stone.

Photo Credit: GAYSHA Paint & Pattern

Where to Use Rodmell

Rodmell works particularly well on furniture you want people to notice.

It is particularly effective in dining rooms, sitting rooms, bedrooms and hallways, where darker colours create warmth and atmosphere.

Rodmell is also a wonderful choice for painted kitchens. Used on an island, a bank of lower cabinets or even the whole kitchen, it creates a luxurious look that feels both classic and contemporary. Pair it with brass hardware, marble worktops or natural oak for an effortlessly elegant finish.

Colours to Pair with Rodmell

Rodmell is surprisingly versatile and works beautifully with many other Chalk Paint colours.

For a timeless look, pair it with Old White or Original. Their soft, creamy tones showcase the richness of Rodmell’s tones.

If you prefer a contemporary palette, combine it with Graphite or Chicago Grey for a sophisticated, tonal scheme.

For warmth and softness, try French Linen, Country Grey or Old Ochre – a palette inspired by antique painted furniture and historic interiors.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, Rodmell also sits beautifully alongside deep blues like Oxford Navy, creating an opulent colour scheme.

Photo Credit: Trate tienda taller

Bold, Beautiful and Timeless

Inspired by one of Britain’s most creative homes and rooted in centuries of colour history, Rodmell is a reminder that the furniture we live with every day can be every bit as expressive as the art on our walls.

Click here to watch Annie discuss the story of Rodmell.

Find out more about Rodmell in Episode 3 of The Colourist Podcast

Listen via your favourite app! New episodes are released the first Friday of every month.