Farrow & Ball 5L Modern Eggshell Drab No.41

Like the warmer Dauphin, this mid-toned brown is a classic example of the elegant 'drab' tones loved by homeowners of the 18th and 19th centuries. Far from being dull, as our modern understanding of its name would suggest, it simply means a colour without brightness. Try it on woodwork with a softer Farrow & Ball white, like Off-White, on walls.

About Modern Eggshell

5 Litres of Drab No.41 in Farrow & Ball Modern Eggshell, the brand's super tough, mid-sheen interior finish for wood, metal and concrete. More durable than typical emulsions, it withstands knocks, scuffs and stains, making it ideal for busy homes, and it is tough enough for floorboards, concrete floors and staircases. The long-lasting formula won't yellow over time.

Key features

• 40% sheen for a gentle, satin shine
• Scrubbable, washable and wipeable
• Scuff resistant and stain proof
• Tough enough for interior floors and staircases
• Long lasting and won't yellow over time
• Water based, quick drying and low odour; toy safe and A+ rated for indoor air quality

Where to use: interior wood, metal and concrete, including skirting boards, doors, windowsills, kitchen cabinets, bathroom shelves, floorboards, concrete floors, staircases, radiators, pipes, cupboard handles and shelving units.

Preparation: prime first with the right Farrow & Ball primer: Wood Primer & Undercoat for interior woodwork and wooden floors, Metal Primer & Undercoat for metal, and Masonry & Plaster Stabilising Primer for interior concrete floors and unsound masonry. Cast iron needs a specialist primer. Paint radiators when they are switched off and cool; hot-water radiators up to 60°C surface temperature are suitable, steam-filled radiators are not. Then apply two coats of Modern Eggshell.

Coverage and drying: up to 12m² per litre per coat, so this 5 litre tin covers up to 60m² per coat. Dry in 2 hours and recoat after 4 hours.

Size: 5 litre. Modern Eggshell is available in 750ml, 2.5 litre and 5 litre tins.