Chalked & Chosen is a colour-led, heritage-inspired studio and retail space nestled within the Ipswich Antique Centre, created from a genuine passion for bringing new life to furniture and the stories it carries. It is a space shaped as much by creativity as it is by a deep respect for history, where once‑loved, often overlooked pieces are reimagined rather than replaced, and where colour becomes a way of giving them a second life.

Our style is warm, layered and intentionally unpolished in the best sense, celebrating character over perfection. Pieces are transformed in ways that feel natural and lived‑in, honouring their past while redefining their future. It about working with history – softly, creatively, and with care. This same philosophy extends to our store – a place that is welcoming, approachable, and quietly inspiring … where creativity feels accessible.

At its heart, Chalked & Chosen is a destination for those wanting to create their own transformations. We offer the full range of Annie Sloan chalk paints and finishes, including sealers and waxes, giving customers everything they need to confidently start their own projects. The beauty of these paints lies in their simplicity and versatility, making it possible to work across a wide range of surfaces with minimal preparation, and opening up endless creative possibilities for both beginners and experienced upcyclers. More than just a retail offer, there is an emphasis on guidance and encouragement, helping customers find colours they love and the confidence to use them.

Being located within the Ipswich Antique Centre adds a rich layer of context and inspiration. Surrounded by antiques and collectables, the store sits within a living gallery of history, where customers can see first hand how old and new can sit together beautifully. Alongside paints and finishes, Chalked & Chosen offers a curated selection of upcycled furniture and character-filled pieces, allowing visitors to experience the transformation process not just as an idea, but as something tangible and achievable.

Looking ahead, we are evolving into a place of learning inspiration. Painting workshops will soon become part of the experience, offering hands-on opportunities for people to develop their skills, experiment with techniques, and rediscover the creative potential of pieces they may otherwise have discarded. These sessions are not just about technique—they are about shifting perspectives, helping people see possibilities where they might once have seen only worn or outdated furniture.

Chalked & Chosen is a blend of story, setting and purpose. It is not simply a shop that sells paint, nor just a place that restores furniture. It is a space grounded in heritage and driven by creativity, where customers are invited to participate in the process of transformation themselves. Inspired by real lived heritage in Ipswich, we are building a brand of authenticity, where every piece, colour and finish contributes to a larger story of reuse, redefinition and renewal.