The development of standard colours has been a significant milestone in various industries, providing consistency and accuracy in the use of colours. The British Standards Institution recognised the importance of standardising colours in 1930 and began developing a range of standard colours. Initially, the standard range consisted of ten pastel colours, which were showcased in a leaflet titled “Flat Colours for Wall Decoration” in 1945, named as BS381 WD. This development allowed for better consistency in the use of colours across different applications and industries.
Over time, the range of standard colours has expanded to meet the growing needs of various industries. Today, standard colours are used in a wide range of applications, from creating logos and branding materials to producing packaging and consumer products. The use of standard colours ensures consistency, accuracy, and reproducibility, making it easier for businesses to produce high-quality products that meet customer expectations.
Several British Standards have been developed over the years, including BS381, BS2660, BS5252, and BS4800. These standards have played a significant role in various industries, enabling manufacturers to create more consistent and high-quality products. They have also made it easier for architects, designers, and builders to select colours for their projects, knowing that the chosen shades will meet the required standards. The enduring legacy of these standards highlights their importance in the development of colour standards and their practical applications in everyday life.