If you’re thinking about making over a room or two this year and can’t decide on a colour scheme, how about getting the blues? Blue’s one of the most versatile colours out there, and comes in such a wide range of tones and variations that you’re sure to find something you like.
The strong, dark navy of this Cloud corner sofa (£2,445 by Loaf) is balanced with paler blue scatter cushions and a neutral background. The same tones are picked out in the artwork and decorate accessories for a harmonious whole.
Dark rooms and kitchens
To create a feeling of light and freshness in rooms with little natural light, mix crisp, mid-to-pale blues with white. Don’t be afraid to use several shades of blue, but keep darker hues to a minimum. Mix sharp, geometric patterns with more traditional ginghams and stripes for a layered look that adds interest and depth. The mix of colours and patterns will stop the room looking cold or sterile. For a modern twist, paint kitchen units in high gloss shades – it’ll also help reflect the light. Blue and white china on kitchen shelves always looks classic – mix shades and patterns for a contemporary, eclectic feel rather than displaying several pieces from a single set.
Bedrooms
Blue is a very popular colour for bedrooms, often used by designers to create a feeling of space and calmness. Use shades of pale ice blue, sea blue and sand colours to create a relaxing, outdoor feel. This look works well with bare floorboards and pale walls.
Sitting rooms
Blue can add an air of luxury and opulence to a sitting room. Choose sofas and chairs in shades of rich royal and navy blue, and use a textured fabric such as velvet to create a feeling of warmth. If velvet isn’t practical for you (white cat or young children, anyone?!), then go for a harder-wearing plain fabric and add velvet cushions. Blues don’t have to be moody – mix blue tones with shades of grey and beige for a calming effect; with shades of green for a vibrant punch and warm shades of cream and pale yellow to add warmth.
Luxe velvet cushion, £24, Danetti, a rich, midnight blue cotton velvet cushion with a simple self piped trim.
This Munchkin chair, £595, in azure blue plush is handmade in Britain by Loaf. The solid beech frame has a five year guarantee, and the bright fabric will add a welcome splash of colour to a monochrome interior.
Children’s rooms
The bright, cheerful tones of aqua and turquoise will bring a child’s room to life. Team with hot pink or navy blue and sea green accessories for a simple, bold palette.
Studies
Blue is an ideal choice for a study area, as it promotes thoughtfulness and reflection. Stick to solid blocks of colour in darker blue and greyish-blues shades and avoid busy patterns to encourage a zen-like state of concentration!
Oxford wallpaper in Dusty Blue from the British Library collection by Debbie McKeegan. £120 per roll (a roll covers approximately 5.62 square metres).
Finishing touches
To add just a colour of colour, use a blue rug on a plain carpet or floor boards, position blue glass vases in front of light sources and paint just the inside backs of bookcases. Throws, cushions, seat pads and blue glass door knobs will also help to marry the colour scheme together.
Florabundance Colours Tulip vase in Ink Blue, £49 from Dartington Crystal.
Turquoise glass flower tea light holder, £12, by Gisela Graham, available from The Contemporary Home. The iridescent surface of this waterlily-shaped holder reflects the light and throws out a pretty mottled pattern.
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Beautiful ideas – love blue!