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Design Dilemma: How to Do Blue

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Are you feeling a little blue? So are we! But in this case, it’s not a bad thing. Blue can be one of the baddest, boldest colors to use as an accent in interior design.

Why’s that? It’s because although blue is a “cool” color, it actually comes in so many emotional temperatures, ranging from fresh to calming to electric to moody, that it offers a wealth of design opportunities. It is the color of the skies, lakes and seas, so it has a very grounding, elemental appeal, but it also speaks of energy and renewed life, giving it quite a punch. It can feel youthful and modern or traditional and preppy. Let’s take a look:

If you’re looking for a beachy feel, choose aqua and seafoam green.

Above, varying shades of aqua in a dining room and bedroom contribute to a sense of airiness. Below, seafoam green in a bathroom.

These shades are a natural if you want to recall the soothing, relaxing tones of the water. They have a lightness that helps interiors feel fresh and bright.

A darker navy blue can feel either mysterious and moody or preppy and traditional.

Below,  a darker shade in a pantry lends the space a sense of timeless elegance.

And here, a traditional bathroom:

And below, a room that makes liberal use of blue, with a preppy feel:

Use blue as a foil to art work.

As seen below, a blue wall can perfectly set off artwork, providing drama without overpowering it.

Going modern? Opt for a gray-blue or a periwinkle.

 

Below, a modern blue living room veers into gray.

And here, a modern blue living room with shades of periwinkle:

What else to know about blue?

• On exteriors, use blue to highlight architectural details on colonial homes.
• Light shades of blue look great on a beach cottage.
• Slate blue works well on a Craftsman style bungalow.
• Sapphire blue is a traditional choice for shutters on Mediterranean style homes.