Bringing History to Life: Dominic Myland's personal advice on Paint for Period Properties

A period property living room painted in Mylands Egyptian Grey No.154 paint. There is a yellow corner sofa in front of a fireplace.

Walls and woodwork in Egyptian Grey™ No.154

Restoring a Georgian house, updating a Victorian home, or enhancing Edwardian properties is a labour of love. These homes are not only beautiful but historically significant. When restoring or decorating a period property, every detail counts—from the cornicing to the colour on the walls. These homes carry with them a rich narrative, and preserving their architectural integrity while introducing thoughtful updates is a careful balance.

At Mylands, we understand the artistry behind that balance, with over 140 years of experience helping homeowners and designers choose paint that respects the heritage of their home while bringing it confidently into the present.

Dominic Myland, CEO of Mylands and a fifth-generation expert in colour and finishes explains how to approach decorating period homes thoughtfully and authentically.

Walls and woodwork in Burlington Arcade™ No.216

Understanding the buildings character

“Every period property tells a story,” says Dominic. “The key is to listen before you start painting over it.” Whether it's a Georgian townhouse, a Victorian villa, or an Edwardian terrace, understanding the era in which your home was built will help you make informed decisions about colour and finish. Historical references can provide a palette that feels both authentic and timeless. “A Georgian house might call for symmetry, subtle colours and flatter finishes, while a Victorian house might benefit from richer, deeper hues. Edwardian properties often blend traditional layouts with early modern influences—offering even more creative freedom.”

Understanding the character of your home helps ensure any updates feel cohesive. Lean into its origins rather than covering them up.

Choosing the perfect finish

According to Dominic, the finish you choose can dramatically affect the feel of a room.

“For walls in period homes, I recommend our Marble Matt Emulsion — its incredibly flat powdery finish, closely resembles historical limewash, but with the durability that modern life demands.”

For woodwork, like panelled doors, skirting boards, or original window frames, Plant Based Wood & Metal Eggshell delivers a refined, low-sheen finish ideal for older properties. If you are looking for something bolder or more dramatic, our Bright Gloss adds classic glamour, perfect for highlighting architectural features.

Selecting Heritage-Inspired Colours

Colour is key in period decorating. “We always begin by looking at the architecture,” says Dominic. “In a Georgian house, you might find muted greys, soft blues or chalky creams. Victorian houses suit richer, moodier shades—like deep reds, forest greens and navy. Edwardian properties often combine floral, lighter tones with wood accents.”

Dominic recommends exploring Mylands' Archive collection —rooted in historical pigments and colours found in our extensive archive. Favourites include:

Pleasure Gardens Green™ No.214: A dark rich green, that suits drawing rooms and libraries.
Egerton Place™ No.297: A deep, earthy mushroom pink ideal for Victorian living rooms or snug studies.
Clerkenwell No.21: A heritage off-white that brings airiness to narrow Edwardian hallways.

A bedroom with wall panel in Mylands Pleasure Gardens Green. The bed has a white bedspread and there's a bedside table with a lamp beside it.

Bedroom Panel in Pleasure Gardens Green™ No.214 - @our_journey_at_81

A living room painted in Mylands Egerton Place™ No.297 with oak shelving containing books and ornaments. There is a fireplace with marble surround.

Walls in Egerton Place™ No.297

A bedroom with double bed with a striped headboard. The walls are painted in Mylands Clerkenwell No.21

Walls in Clerkenwell No.21

Balance Authenticity and Modern Living

While respecting history is essential, Dominic encourages adding personal touches.

“We often see clients pairing deep, heritage colours on the walls with lighter, more contemporary trims. Deep, historical tones on walls can also be beautifully offset with a touch of gold or silver, using our metallic paint finishes. It creates depth without feeling overly traditional.”

A living room with a pool table and a velvet red chair. The walls are painted in Mylands Bond Street No.219.

Walls and woodwork in Bond Street™ No.219 - @thecountryhousediaries

EXPERT GUIDANCE WITH MYLANDS COLOUR CONSULTANCY

Bringing period properties back to life can feel overwhelming. Our Colour Consultancy service is designed to support homeowners and designers in making confident, informed choices.

Whether you're restoring original features in a Georgian house, exploring bold tones for a Victorian property, or softening the palette in an Edwardian home, our expert consultants work with you to choose colours and finishes that honour the character of your space while reflecting your personal style.

At Mylands, our passion for preserving Britain’s architectural history is matched only by our commitment to creating beautiful, lasting colour.

"Our consultants can help you uncover the perfect palette—often inspired by the property's architecture and light—to ensure every room feels both authentic and beautifully lived-in," says Dominic Myland.

Book a one-to-one consultation in person or online, and let us help you turn your vision into a home with history, harmony, and heart.

Complimentary 20-minute Colour Discovery Call
Book your appointment today:
colour@mylands.com
0208 670 9161

Visit our showroom: 26 Rothchild Street London. SE27 0HQ