Shanks Avon | Rare Mist Grey Basin & Pedestal (Late 1950s/60s)

Introduce a sophisticated, minimalist aesthetic to your home with this genuine Mist Grey basin & pedestal. Manufactured by the prestigious Shanks of Barrhead, Scotland, this Avon model dates from the late 1950s to the early 1960s.

Mist Grey is an exceptionally rare colour from this era. When first introduced, it was overshadowed by the trend for bright pastels like Coral Pink and Sky Blue, leading to its early discontinuation. It wasn’t until the late 1980s that grey became a bathroom staple, making this original mid-century version a truly unique find for the discerning architectural specialist.

Product Features and Modernist Design

The Avon model was at the forefront of post-war design, moving away from the rigid geometric lines of the Art Deco period toward the “Organic Modern” look. Its smooth, sweeping curves and understated profile would have been considered incredibly progressive in 1960. Both the basin and pedestal are crafted from high-quality Vitreous China, ensuring a dense, durable finish that has resisted crazing for over sixty years.

Condition and Fittings

This set is in good overall condition. While there is a slight, natural mark within the ceramic of the basin, it is not particularly noticeable and does not detract from the piece’s historical value.

The original chrome taps are still fitted and are in working order. However, depending on your project requirements, they would benefit from a light restoration to bring back their full lustre, or they could be replaced with modern pillar taps as the basin features a standard 2-tap hole configuration.

Technical Specifications

• Width: 63cm

• Depth: 45.5cm

• Height: 82cm

• Manufacturer: Shanks of Barrhead

• Material: Vitreous China (Crazing-free)

Why Choose This Shanks Suite?

As one of the earliest examples of grey sanitaryware in the UK, this Mist Grey basin & pedestal offers a level of character and rarity that is simply unmatched. It provides the perfect balance: a vintage 1950s silhouette paired with a colour palette that feels surprisingly contemporary.

Safe and Secure Delivery

Shipping such a rare ceramic set requires expert handling. We offer specialised delivery at an extra cost, using custom-built, reinforced packaging to ensure your Mist Grey basin & pedestal reaches you safely, ready to be the centrepiece of your mid-century restoration.

Need a Specific Match?

If you can’t find the exact item you’re looking for online, please get in touch. Our warehouse holds hundreds of unlisted pieces from heritage British manufacturers like Armitage Shanks, Royal Doulton, Twyfords, Shires, and Ideal Standard.

Specialists in Discontinued Colours

We stock an extensive range of rare bathroom shades from the 1950s through to the 1990s. Whether you need a 1980s Heather Pink or a 1990s Peach, we can help you find the perfect replacement.

Our inventory includes popular and rare tones such as:

• Classic Pinks: Flamingo, Orchid, Chiffon, and Rose Water.
• Retro Greens: Avocado, Pampas, Sage, and Apple Blossom.
• Vintage Blues: Bermuda Blue, Sky Blue, and Caspian.
• Earth & Neutrals: Indian Ivory, Champagne, Pergamon, and Harvest Gold.
• The “Whisper” Range: Available in Apricot, Blue, Cream, Green, Grey, Peach, and Pink.

Looking for a specific shade like Penthouse, Twilight, or Bali? Get In Touch — we likely have the exact match in our unlisted stock.