What is Farrow & Ball Dead Flat?

If you’re after paint with a seriously luxurious finish, Farrow & Ball is probably already on your radar. Known for their gorgeous, richly pigmented colours and high-quality finishes, they’re the go-to for anyone wanting to create something truly special in their home. One of their standout products? Farrow & Ball Dead Flat - it’s a real game-changer if you’re looking for the ultimate matt finish.

In this blog, I’ll take you through:

• What makes Dead Flat so different?
• Why it’s worth splurging on.
• The best spots in your home to use it for maximum impact.

What is Dead Flat Paint?

Dead Flat is exactly what it sounds like - the flattest finish Farrow & Ball has ever created. It’s designed to give your walls, ceilings, or woodwork that beautifully soft, matt look with practically no shine at all. The finish almost absorbs light, with just a 2% sheen, adding a subtle texture that makes colours feel richer and more sophisticated.

What Makes It So Special?

This isn’t just another matt paint. Here’s why Dead Flat stands out:

It Works on Loads of Surfaces - Dead Flat isn’t just for walls and ceilings. It’s tough enough for woodwork and even metal, so you can use it on doors, skirting boards, and cabinetry. It’s perfect if you want that seamless, all-over matt look.

Amazing Colour Depth - Farrow & Ball are known for their deeply pigmented colours, and Dead Flat takes it up a notch. The ultra-matt paint finish really enhances the depth of the shade, giving your walls a rich, velvety feel.

Durable Without Compromise - Even though it has that delicate matt appearance, Dead Flat is made to handle real life. It’s washable, scuff-resistant, and built to last, making it a great option for homes that need both style and practicality.

Eco-Friendly and Safe - Like all Farrow & Ball paints, Dead Flat is water-based, low in VOCs, and safe to use throughout your home - even in nurseries and bedrooms.

Why It’s Worth It

Let’s be honest - Farrow & Ball isn’t the cheapest option out there. But if you’re all about quality, it’s 100% worth the investment. Here’s why:

Looks That Last - Dead Flat doesn’t just look incredible when freshly painted - it ages beautifully, too.

Incredible Colours - Their carefully formulated pigments give you a depth and richness you just don’t get with other brands.

Instant Elegance - Using Farrow & Ball paints has that undeniable designer touch that takes your space to the next level.

Selvedge No. 306 | Farrow & Ball - Dead Flat

Where to Use Dead Flat in Your Home

Dead Flat is super versatile, and it works beautifully in different areas of your home. Here are my top suggestions:

Living Rooms and Bedrooms - Perfect for walls where you want a cosy, elegant feel. Try it with soft neutrals or deep, moody tones for a space that feels calm and sophisticated.

Feature Walls - If you want a wall that really stands out, the flat finish is amazing for showing off bold colours. It’s a great choice for dining rooms, studies, or even hallways.

Woodwork and Trim - Painting skirting boards, doors, or built-in furniture in Dead Flat paint creates a modern, cohesive look.

Ceilings - If you’re feeling adventurous, try it on ceilings for a dramatic yet understated effect - especially in darker colours.

Low-Traffic Spaces - While it’s durable, the super matt finish suits quieter areas like bedrooms or formal dining rooms rather than busy kitchens or bathrooms.

Farrow & Ball Dead Flat isn’t just another matt finish paint - it’s a game-changer for creating soft, elegant spaces. Its unique finish enhances both colour and texture in ways other paints simply can’t match. While it’s an investment, it’s one that rewards you with timeless style and sophistication.

Dead Flat vs Estate Emulsion

Dead Flat has an ultra-matte 2% sheen, slightly flatter than the 2–3% sheen of Estate Emulsion. While both finishes offer a soft, chalky look, Estate Emulsion is the more delicate of the two, best suited for low-traffic areas like bedrooms or formal living rooms. Unlike Dead Flat, which is a multi-surface paint suitable for walls, ceilings, woodwork, and metal, Estate Emulsion is designed exclusively for walls and ceilings.

If you need a hardwearing paint that can stand up to the demands of a busy household — including children, pets, and high-traffic areas — Dead Flat is an ideal choice.

Dead Flat vs Modern Emulsion

Dead Flat has a subtle 2% sheen, delivering an ultra-matte finish, while Modern Emulsion offers a slightly higher 7% sheen for a soft, low-sheen look. Despite the difference in finish, both paints are highly durable and washable, making them excellent choices for busy family homes with children or pets. 

If you're after a true matte aesthetic, Dead Flat is the go-to. It's also more versatile — suitable for walls, ceilings, woodwork, and metal — whereas Modern Emulsion is designed exclusively for walls and ceilings.

Ready to give it a go? Pick up a Farrow & Ball colour chart, grab a tester pot, or dive straight in with a tin of Dead Flat. Transform your space and let the results speak for themselves! Don’t forget to tag us in your finished projects - we’d love to see your creativity in action.

Helen x