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Showcasing Kigali in a Victorian Home

Showcasing Kigali in a Victorian Home

September 1st, 2022
Paint & Paper Library

Kigali, a blackened denim paint shade, is used to great effect throughout the home of Interior Designer, Martha Riley. Used in several spaces throughout her home, Kigali provides a backdrop to statement pieces that flows from room to room.

We spoke with Martha to discover why this shade sits so comfortably in her home, featuring in both Victorian reception rooms and compact corridors.

Why did you choose Paint & Paper Library colours for your home?

“The beautiful depth and texture of the colours. The tonal palette and amazing pigmentation creates such a sumptuous environment.”

Kigali features a lot in your home. Where did you first discover the shade?

“I first saw Kigali used at the Roger Oates Studio at the Chelsea Design District. They have a huge showroom and I was blown away by the colour as soon as I walked in. Luckily, they happily shared the colour with me and that was the start of my love affair with Kigali.”

What is your advice for incorporating bolder colours into the home?

“I would say to be brave! It can be nerve wracking the first time you use a bold colour, but embrace it. We painted the walls and all the woodwork in the same colour to give a seamless finish. We also love art and I have found that a dramatic wall colour really enhances artwork and highlights original features such as cornicing and fireplaces.”

Which room in your house is your favourite space and why?

“I would say the kitchen/diner and the sitting room. Everyone always gravitates to the kitchen, and we love to entertain, so it’s definitely the hub of the home. The sitting room is a bit of a sanctuary for us. With five teenage children in the house, it’s nice to have a sophisticated space for relaxing and hanging out with friends.”

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Do you have any upcoming projects?

“After living in our house for a year we are about to start on phase two of our project, creating a media room/snug and completing the dining space. I have lots of ideas about paint colours as I really know how the light works in different rooms and during the different seasons. 

“I absolutely love the Architectural Colours paint collection from Paint & Paper Library. As this is a Victorian house, I’m keen to preserve as many original features as possible. I love neutral colours, especially white but I always want to add texture and depth, so I have my eye on Marble and Plaster I.

“I’m also really drawn to dark olive green colours so I’m definitely looking to use Apple Smiles II and Glass V. Bluebird is another favourite which I think would look so stunning in a bedroom.”