Great news for lovers of an ultra-matt finish: Farrow & Ball has confirmed that its popular Dead Flat paint can now be recommended for kitchen and bathroom walls and ceilings. Following extensive real-world testing, the brand has updated its guidance to include these spaces, giving homeowners and decorators more freedom to create a beautifully seamless look throughout the home.
Here is what has changed, how Dead Flat compares with Modern Emulsion, and where you should – and should not – use it.
What's new? Dead Flat is now suitable for kitchens and bathrooms
Until recently, Farrow & Ball's advice did not recommend Dead Flat for kitchens and bathrooms. The reason was not a known problem with the paint: the company had not yet completed enough testing to confidently recommend the finish in these environments.
That has now changed. Extensive testing in real homes has confirmed that Dead Flat performs successfully on kitchen and bathroom walls and ceilings. This means you can choose its characteristic ultra-matt appearance in spaces where a more practical paint finish would traditionally have been recommended.
Importantly, the formulation has not changed. Both existing tins and newly produced stock offer the same performance. This is an update to Farrow & Ball's application guidance, not a new paint product.
Why choose Farrow & Ball Dead Flat?
Dead Flat is designed to combine Farrow & Ball's rich depth of colour with a durable, multi-surface finish. Its standout qualities include:
- Ultra-matt 2% sheen: a beautifully flat appearance that softens reflected light and brings out the depth of your chosen colour.
- Washable and wipeable: ideal for walls that need to cope with everyday life.
- Class 1 scrub rating: a durable finish that stands up to regular cleaning.
- Multi-surface versatility: suitable for interior walls, woodwork and metal, subject to the product's application guidance.
- Updated kitchen and bathroom suitability: now recommended for walls and ceilings in both rooms.
Dead Flat vs Modern Emulsion: which should you choose?
Both Farrow & Ball finishes are now suitable for kitchen and bathroom walls and ceilings, but they deliver slightly different looks.
| Feature | Dead Flat | Modern Emulsion |
|---|---|---|
| Sheen level | 2% – ultra matt | 7% – subtle mid-sheen |
| Kitchen & bathroom walls | Yes | Yes |
| Kitchen & bathroom ceilings | Yes | Yes |
| Durability | Durable, washable and scrubbable | Durable and washable |
| Best for | A completely flat, colour-rich appearance | A slightly higher-sheen finish |
Farrow & Ball confirms Dead Flat is just as durable as Modern Emulsion. Both contain the same mould-resistant ingredient. If you love an almost completely matt look, Dead Flat is an excellent choice; if you prefer a little more sheen, Modern Emulsion remains a strong option.
What about kitchen cabinets, bathroom furniture and floors?
This is an important distinction. The updated recommendation covers walls and ceilings, not kitchen or bathroom cabinets or floors. Farrow & Ball continues to recommend its tougher trim finishes for these high-wear surfaces.
Depending on your project and the look you want, consider Flat Eggshell (20% sheen), Modern Eggshell (40% sheen) or Full Gloss (95% sheen). Always follow the preparation and application instructions for the chosen surface.
A fresh opportunity for colour drenching
If you love the effect of colour drenching – painting architectural details in the same colour for a calm, cohesive finish – the new guidance makes Dead Flat an even more versatile choice. You can now continue its ultra-matt appearance onto kitchen or bathroom walls and ceilings, rather than automatically changing to a different wall finish when moving between rooms.
Choose a timeless neutral for a soft and relaxing space, or opt for a deeper Farrow & Ball shade to create a confident, enveloping atmosphere.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Dead Flat on bathroom ceilings?
Yes. Farrow & Ball now recommends Dead Flat for both walls and ceilings in domestic bathrooms, as well as kitchens.
Do I need to buy a newly formulated tin?
No. The formulation is unchanged, so all existing and future Dead Flat stock provides the same performance.
Is Dead Flat as durable as Modern Emulsion?
Yes. According to Farrow & Ball's updated technical guidance, Dead Flat is just as durable as Modern Emulsion, while offering a lower 2% sheen.
Can I use Dead Flat on kitchen cabinets or floors?
No. For high-wear cabinetry and floors in kitchens and bathrooms, choose an appropriate Farrow & Ball trim finish instead.
Shop Farrow & Ball Dead Flat at Decor Express
Whether you're refreshing a bathroom, planning a kitchen makeover or decorating the rest of your home, you can now enjoy Dead Flat's ultra-matt appearance in even more spaces.
Shop Farrow & Ball Dead Flat colours or explore all Farrow & Ball paint finishes at Decor Express.
Product guidance based on Farrow & Ball's September 2026 Dead Flat Stockist Briefing. Always follow the latest product advice sheet and surface preparation instructions for your project.