Decorating with Blue & How to Bring it Into Your Home

By Interior Designer Tracy Svendsen | Published on April 02, 2019 | Updated on December 18, 2023 |

Decorating with Blue: Are you looking to add a cool and calming touch to your living space? Look no further than the color blue. From deep navy to vibrant turquoise, there are endless shades of blue to choose from when decorating your home. 

In this ultimate guide, we will explore the many shades and styles of blue, providing inspiration and tips to incorporate this versatile color into your decor. Whether you prefer a bold and dramatic look or a soft and understated feel, blue can create the perfect ambiance for any room. 

With its association with serenity and tranquility, blue is often used in bedrooms and bathrooms to create a relaxing atmosphere. However, this versatile color can also make a statement in other home areas, such as the living room or kitchen.

Discover how shades of blue evoke moods and complement different design styles. Blue can seamlessly fit into various interior aesthetics from coastal to modern, traditional to eclectic. Feature image courtesy of Country Living (Mark D. Sikes Design).

Decorating with Blue
Image courtesy of Serena + Lily

Blue in Interior Design

Blue has long been a popular color choice for home decor due to its calming and soothing qualities. It is often associated with the sky and the sea, bringing a sense of tranquility and serenity into any space. In Feng Shui, blue is considered a color of healing and relaxation, making it an ideal choice for bedrooms and bathrooms.

When used in interior design, blue can create a harmonious and balanced atmosphere, promoting a sense of peace and well-being. It can lower blood pressure and heart rate, making it a perfect choice for spaces where you want to unwind and destress.

How to Decorate with Blue
Image courtesy of Luxe Source

Different Shades and Their Meanings

Blue profoundly impacts our emotions and can evoke different feelings depending on the shade used. Lighter shades of blue, such as powder or sky blue, are often associated with tranquility and clarity. These shades can create a sense of openness and spaciousness, making them ideal for smaller rooms or spaces with limited natural light.

On the other hand, darker shades of blue, like navy or midnight blue, can create a more dramatic and moody atmosphere. These deeper shades of blue are often used to add depth and sophistication to a space, making them a popular choice for formal dining rooms or study areas.

Decorating with Different Shades of Blue | Suzanne Kasler Design
Image courtesy of Architectural Digest

Decorating with Different Shades of  Blue

The world of blue is vast, with countless shades to choose from. Each shade has its unique personality and meaning. Let’s explore some of the most popular shades of blue and their associations:

1. Turquoise: This vibrant blue-green shade is often associated with tropical beaches and exotic destinations. Turquoise can add a playful and energetic touch to any room, making it an excellent choice for spaces where you want to create a sense of adventure and fun.

Decorating with Turquoise Blue
Image courtesy of Ideal Home

2. Sky Blue: This light and airy shade of blue is reminiscent of clear blue skies on a sunny day. Sky blue is often associated with peace and tranquility, making it a perfect choice for bedrooms or meditation spaces.

Decorating with Sky Blue
Image courtesy of Luxe Source

3. Navy Blue: A deep and rich shade of blue, navy blue exudes elegance and sophistication. This timeless shade can add a touch of luxury to any room, making it a popular choice for formal living spaces or home offices.

Decorating with Navy Blue | Mark D. Sikes Design
Image courtesy of Architectural Digest

4. Baby Blue: Soft and delicate, baby blue is often associated with innocence and purity. This pale shade of blue is perfect for nurseries or children’s rooms, creating a calm and soothing environment for little ones.

Decorating with Baby Blue | D. Sikes Design
Image courtesy of Veranda

Blue as a Dominant Color

For those who love blue, using it as a dominant color in a room can create a stunning and cohesive look. Whether through painted walls, a blue sofa, or blue cabinetry, incorporating blue as the primary color can set the tone for the entire space.

When using blue as a dominant color, it’s important to consider the shade and intensity of the blue. Lighter shades of blue can create a soft and calming atmosphere, while darker shades can add drama and sophistication. Balance is key when using blue as a dominant color – incorporate other colors and textures to create a well-rounded and visually appealing space.

Decorating with Blue as a Dominant Color | Mark D. Sikes
Image courtesy of Veranda

Blue as an Accent Color

If you need more time to decide whether to commit to an all-blue room, using blue as an accent color can be a great way to incorporate this versatile hue into your decor. Whether through throw pillows, curtains, or artwork, adding pops of blue can instantly freshen up your space and add visual interest.

When using blue as an accent color, it’s essential to consider the other colors in your room. Blue pairs well with neutrals like white, beige, and gray, creating a classic and timeless look. 

Try pairing blue with contrasting colors like yellow or orange for a bolder statement. This unexpected color combination can create a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.

Blue as an Accent Color
Image courtesy of Martha Stewart

Using this Hue in Different Decorating Styles 

Blue is a versatile color that seamlessly fits into various decorating styles. Whether you prefer a coastal, contemporary, traditional, or eclectic aesthetic, blue can be incorporated in multiple ways to complement your chosen style.

In a coastal-inspired space, shades of blue reminiscent of the ocean and beach can create a serene and relaxed atmosphere. Pairing blue with natural materials like rattan or driftwood can enhance the coastal vibe.

Coastal Outdoor Area
Image courtesy of Serena + Lily

In a contemporary setting, bold and vibrant shades of blue can make a statement and add energy to a space. Use blue as a focal point, whether through furniture or a striking piece of artwork.

Using Blue in Contemporary Design
Image courtesy of LuxeSource

Softer shades of blue can create a timeless and elegant look in a traditional space. Blue can be incorporated through patterned wallpapers, upholstered furniture, or decorative accessories.

Using Blue in Traditional Design | Mark D. Sikes
Image courtesy of Veranda

For those who prefer an eclectic aesthetic, combining different shades and patterns of blue can create a visually exciting and unique space. Mix and match blue textiles, artwork, and decorative objects to create a one-of-a-kind look.

Eclectic Living Room With Blue Accents
Image courtesy of Erin Williamson Design

Tips for Incorporating Blue into your Home Decor

1. Start small: If you need clarification on using blue as a dominant color, incorporate small blue accents into your decor. This could be through throw pillows, rugs, or artwork.

2. Consider the lighting: Lighting plays a crucial role in how colors appear in a space. Consider your room’s natural and artificial lighting when choosing shades of blue. Cooler shades of blue may appear brighter in rooms with ample natural light, while darker shades can create a cozy and intimate atmosphere in rooms with less light.

3. Mix and match shades: Be bold and mix different shades of blue in your decor. This can create depth and visual interest in a room. Just be sure to choose shades that complement each other and create a cohesive look.

4. Experiment with textures: Blue can be incorporated through various textures, such as velvet, denim, or ceramic. Adding different textures can create a tactile and visually appealing space.

5. Use blue as a backdrop: If you want to showcase other colors or decorative elements in your room, consider using blue as a backdrop. This could be through painted walls or a blue area rug.

Decorating with Blue Ideas
Image courtesy of Elle Decor

Blue for Different Rooms -Living Room, Bedroom, Bathroom, etc.

1. Living Room: Blue can create a calm and inviting atmosphere in the living room. Consider using blue as an accent color through throw pillows, curtains, or a statement piece of furniture.

Blue Living Room Ideas
Image courtesy of Luxe Source

2. Bedroom: Blue is often associated with serenity and relaxation, making it an ideal choice for the bedroom. Consider using softer shades of blue for a soothing and peaceful ambiance.

Blue Bedroom Ideas
Image courtesy of Serena + Lily

3. Bathroom: Blue is a popular bathroom choice as it creates a spa-like atmosphere. Consider using blue tiles or a blue-painted vanity to add a touch of luxury to your bathroom.

Blue Bathroom Ideas
Image courtesy of JRS Interior Design

4. Kitchen: Blue can add a fresh and vibrant touch to the kitchen. Consider using blue cabinetry or kitchen accessories for a pop of color in this functional space.

Blue Kitchen Ideas
Image courtesy of Marriane Simon Design

Decorating with Blue: Embrace the versatility of blue in your home decor

When it comes to blue decor accessories and furniture, the options are endless. From blue vases and lamps to blue upholstered chairs and sofas, there are plenty of ways to incorporate blue into your decor.

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