Everything Blue: A Guide to Using Blue in Interior Design
Have you ever gazed up at a clear blue sky and felt a sense of calm wash over you? Or maybe the vast, rolling waves of the ocean inspire tranquility within you? Blue, in all its glorious shades, has a profound effect on our emotions. This is precisely why it's one of the most popular colors used in interior design.
When I came across the video Blue-tiful Home! Pro Tips For Adding Blue Accents To Your Space, I had to share it here because Julie Khuu does such a great job of explaining why and how to use blue in your home decorating...
Table of contents
Why Blue?
- Blue is everywhere in nature, from the sky to the ocean.
- It has a calming effect, making you feel relaxed and peaceful.
- Different shades of blue evoke various emotions: tranquility, trust, inspiration, and order.
How to Use Blue Paint
- Bold walls: Don't be afraid of a bold blue statement wall!
- Tinted walls: Soft, powdery blues create a calming atmosphere in bedrooms.
- Embrace the ceiling: Paint the ceiling a lighter shade of blue or a high-gloss finish for a glamorous touch.
- Accentuate details: Highlight architectural features with blue wainscoting, trim, or molding.
Blue "Colors of the Year" For 2024
Both Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore have chosen shades of blue for their Color of Year selections for 2024.
Sherwin-Williams' Upward is a light and breezy blue that is at once a breath of fresh air and a relaxing respite from the busy, modern-day world.
On the other hand, Benjamin Moore's Blue Nova is more of a mid-tone, lying between blue and violet, said to evoke depth, intrigue, and allure.
Choosing the Right Blue
- Light blues: Perfect for bedrooms and powder bathrooms.
- Medium blues: Inspire harmony in living rooms or kitchens (cabinetry, artwork, rugs).
- Dark blues: Dramatic and moody, ideal for creating a sophisticated ambiance.
Beyond Paint: Bringing Blue into Your Space
- Furniture: A statement blue sofa or a comfy blue armchair can add a pop of color.
- Bedding: Blue throws, pillows, or a complete blue bed set create a cohesive look.
- Artwork and accessories: Abstract art depicting the ocean or sky, blue vases, or patterned rugs.
- Wallpaper: Bold geometric prints, muted grasscloth, or playful florals.
Bonus Tips
- Consider the psychology of color: What feeling do you want to create in a particular space?
- Look for complimentary or analogous colors on the color wheel for contrast.
- Use blue sparingly in small spaces to avoid overwhelming the room.
- Play with patterns and textures to add visual interest.
Shop the Look
You can see details of the products mentioned in the video in the description box here. Or take a look at five of my favorite blue accent pieces below, available for great value on Amazon:
Disclaimer: Hometalk may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via Amazon links in this article but at no cost to you.
1. Sizikato Diamond Faceted Crystal Glass Candy Jar
2. DKSYEE Navy Blue Marble Abstract Ceramic Coasters
3. Fleece Plush Throw Blanket in Navy Blue
4. GTIDEA 6pcs Blue Artificial Eucalyptus Stems
5. Mowtanco Blue Ceramic Vase Set of 3
6. Topfinel Blue Throw Pillow Covers 18x18 Inch Set of 4
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