A strong dark brown
Backorder note: Our system may show Farrow & Ball paint as “backorder” due to paint being mixed as ordered.
Tanner’s Brown No. 255 by Farrow & Ball is a strong, dark brown—our darkest drab—named after the artisans who tan hides into leather. In lower lighting it can read as almost black, making it a go-to shade when you want depth without the harshness of true black.
It’s especially useful for creating a slightly softer look on the interior of fireplaces. In well-lit homes and on exteriors, Tanner’s Brown becomes noticeably browner thanks to its warm red undertones, giving it a rich, earthy character that pairs beautifully with wood, stone, and aged metals.
Recommended Primer & Undercoat: Dark Tones.
Complementary white: Joa’s White.
Key details
- Colour: Tanner’s Brown
- Number: No. 255
- Brand: Farrow & Ball
- Colour family: Strong dark brown / near-black brown
- Undertone: Warm red (reads browner in bright light)
- Light behaviour: Almost black in low light
- Best for: Fireplace interiors, feature walls, cabinetry, dramatic accents
- Recommended Primer & Undercoat: Dark Tones
- Complementary white: Joa’s White

Estate Emulsion: Interior walls and ceilings with 2% sheen. Signature chalky, very matte finish.
Coverage 100ml - 9 sq feet 1 Gallon - 570 sq feet
Modern Emulsion: Interior walls, bathroom, kitchen and busy area. 7% sheen. Washable, mold and mildew resistant slightly matte finish.
Coverage 1 Gallon - 480 sq feet
Flat Eggshell: 20% Sheen
COVERAGE
Up to 480ft per Gallon
- Wood
- Metal
- Concrete
- Floors
- Kitchen & bathroom cabinets
Modern Eggshell: Interior walls, staircases, floors, kitchen cabinets and metal. 40% sheen. Extremely durable mid sheen finish.
Coverage 750ml - 95 sq feet 1 Gallon - 480 sq feet
Full Gloss: Interior and Exterior wood and metal. 95% sheen. Most durable high gloss finish.
Coverage 750ml - 95 sq feet 1 Gallon - 480 sq feet
Dead Flat: Interior walls, ceilings, wood and metal. 2% sheen
Coverage 750ml - 95 sq feet 1 Gallon - 480 sq feet