In the UK, cohesive colour palettes were created almost accidentally, limited to local construction techniques andmaterials. Originally, pigments were produced from substances that existed naturally in the environment andmaterials were used that could be sourced locally. Colour and building techniques have become a reflection of cultural traditions, local customs and current trends both in the UK and internationally. As a result, regions, cities, towns, villages and even streets can have their own individual colour identity. We can still see this today, especially in places like Tobermory & Norwich.
The original purpose of a town or village, whether it originates from manufacturing, fishing, farming or mining helps to establish an identity within a community. In the following section there is an overview of the nine regions around the UK. The coastal, urban and rural landscape in each area reflects a unique colour palette and captures the essence of a place. The landscape is something to be considered when choosing colour for the exterior, it forms the backdrop to the building. A balance between respecting local customs and traditions and innovation is key to a successful colour scheme.
Coastal houses are often brightly coloured, and one theory for this is that returning fishermen can easily identify their home when approaching the shoreline.
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