Located in the heart of Clerkenwell, the new studio extends Crown’s existing partnerships in Manchester and Glasgow, creating a nationwide network of inspiration and collaboration for architects, designers and specifiers.
A space for colour exploration
Within the London space, Crown provides a practical environment for professionals to engage directly with colour. Its installation showcases all 160 shades from The Colour Edit – a curated palette developed by Crown’s colour experts to support accurate specification across projects of every scale and for every sector. Visitors can explore real paint samples, test combinations and build palettes with confidence, supported by technical resources that bring design concepts closer to real-world application.
Collaboration through design
A key feature of the studio is a dedicated mood board area, designed to encourage collaboration and experimentation. Equipped with an adjustable lighting system that replicates cool, warm, and daylight, the space allows professionals to see how colour responds in different environments too – a vital consideration for ensuring design intent is carried through from concept to completion.
Inspired by choreography
At the heart of Crown’s installation is a three-dimensional mural inspired by Choreography, a palette from Crown’s 2025/26 Colour Insights collection. Developed through ongoing research into how people experience space, Choreography explores balance, movement and sensory design. Its warm, muted tones and deeper shades are designed to promote calm and inclusivity, reflecting Crown’s growing focus on human-centred design. This work builds on Crown’s industry report, Designing for Neurodiversity, which highlights the role of colour in creating accessible and supportive built environments.
Supporting professional development
Crown’s partnership with Material Source Studio London also provides a base for professional development. The brand will deliver a programme of RIBA accredited CPD sessions, offering insight into the science and specification of colour in architecture and interior design. In addition, visitors can book one-to-one consultations with the Crown A&D team to discuss live projects and access tailored technical advice.
A nationwide commitment to design excellence
Across the three Material Source Studios – London, Manchester and Glasgow – Crown is committed to supporting the design and construction community with tools, training and expertise that make colour specification easier and more effective. By establishing a presence in all three studios, Crown Paints continues to build on its reputation as a partner to professionals looking for both design inspiration and performance reliability. Its nationwide network ensures specifiers can engage with colour in a way that’s practical, informed and aligned with the realities of construction.
Connecting insight with application
From CPDs on inclusive design and sustainability to workshops exploring new colour technologies, Crown’s collaboration with Material Source is driven by the goal of connecting insight with application. Whether developing a commercial scheme, educational environment or residential project, architects and designers can rely on Crown to provide the expertise and support needed to achieve lasting, high-quality results.
Professionals are invited to visit Material Source Studio London, or meet the Crown team in Manchester or Glasgow, to experience colour and specification in action.
