Colourwash Limited was founded in 1989 by Jane Gilchriest and David Jones. Colourwash was their second bathroom retail company, they had previously founded Pipe Dreams Limited in 1983 in Primrose Hill, London. They successfully sold Pipe Dreams to Smallbone P.L.C. in 1987.

Their mission statement for the foundation of Colourwash was and still remains DESIGN SERVICE VALUE. These core principles are underpinned by the experienced showroom staff who are selected for their design flair and product knowledge. Colourwash maintains a relentless search in the U.K. and around the world for the highest quality products displaying real design integrity at the keenest prices.

The company was sold in 2001 and the present owners have continued and reinforced these core principles that have served the company so well. David Jones ( chairman) and Jane Gilchriest (sales consultant) continue to work, for, and actively pursue the continuing success of Colourwash