Dead Salmon

Dead Salmon is warm, characterful, and unmistakably Farrow & Ball

This smoky salmon hue feels like an aged plaster wall: it delivers warmth and depth without looking sugary. Dead Salmon is a favourite for dining rooms, cosy studies, and snug bedrooms where you want instant atmosphere and heritage charm.

Pair it with Old White ceilings or Calke Green cabinetry to lean into an English-country palette, or sharpen it with matte black fixtures and stone floors for a modern twist.

Sampling dupes & choosing finishes

The undertone can swing rosy or brown depending on the light, so paint two coats on a large board and move it through the room throughout the day. You’re aiming for a muted, autumnal blush that remains grounded under lamplight. For walls, estate emulsion or washable matt keeps the finish velvety; for cabinetry or panelling, estate eggshell offers durability.

When combining with muted greens like Pigeon, keep sheen levels consistent so the palette feels deliberate. Warm brass and antique mirrors amplify the richness, while pale linen prevents the scheme from feeling heavy.

Where Dead Salmon excels

Use it on dining room walls, media rooms, stair spindles, or as a statement colour for bespoke wardrobes. It’s also beautiful on panelled hallways when balanced with off-white ceilings and patterned runners. The hue behaves almost like a neutral, so it can anchor a surprising number of palettes—from mossy greens to chalky whites—while still feeling distinct.