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» Colour Psychology Series : Blue

Colour Psychology Series : Blue

Colour Psychology Series : Blue 
Arguably one of the most loved colours in the world... 
Cabinets : Blue Macaw 784
Actually, there's no argument about it.
According to research, blue is the most popular "favourite colour" for people globally.
 
While many other colours are perceived quite differently across cultures, blue is one of the most universally loved shades globally.
Take red for example - culturally it is a contradictory hue - being linked to both love and anger by different cultures.  

On the other hand, blue is far more consistent, being associated with attributes such as trust, responsibility, dedication and bravery.

We of course can't forget, blue is a colour often found in nature, such as the pale blue of a summer sky or the rich dark blue of oceans and lakes. This connection with the natural world is calming and serene and therefore when we use the colour in our homes it creates a soothing and harmonious atmosphere.
 
Upper Wall: Light Blue 2066-70 Lower Wall: Sailor's Sea Blue 2063-40
Decorating with blue is one of the all-time interior classics - its familiarity means many of us are more than confident to use it in all its glory. Its wide range of hues make it versatile and diverse, it's therefore easy to find new and refreshing alternatives season after season.

We know fashion and interior trends are strongly intertwined, and if this year's catwalks are anything to go by blue is most certainly in vogue. From the cobalt blue bursting through the collections with the freshness of a sea mist, to multiple models in deep azure strutting on the Italian catwalk - one thing's for sure, in 2023 we can expect to see washes of rich, deep blue everywhere.
 
Whether you're looking to make a statement with a dramatic navy or create a calming backdrop with a paler hue, each amplification instils a different mood and here are a few of our favourite combinations......



Blue and white will always be right.
One of the most classic combinations is blue and white. The pairing will bring a timeless charm to
your interiors. If you're working with an open, light space then let the white dominate for a bright
airy feel and then pick a feature area to integrate blue such as this wedge-shaped section under the
stairs.
Staircase, walls and ceiling : Decorator White OC-149. Stairway wall : Downpour Blue 2063-20. Chairs : Captivating Teal 649.
Style note : By using blue you'll create a focal point that will add interest, depth and personality.

Maximise light and space with soft and pale tones.
South facing rooms benefit from strong, clear natural light, so all blues work well. Choosing shades
with cool undertones like blue, green and purple will balance the intensity of the sunlight and help
achieve a calming and breezy atmosphere, softening cozy corners in even the brightest of rooms.
Walls : Windmill Wings 2067-60. Banquette base : Oxford Gray 2128-40. Right wall : White Heron OC-57l
Style note : Enhance the feeling of nature by pairing this hue with warm wooden furniture and add depth by using soothing pastel shades in your soft furnishings.

Pair soft blue with grey for a neutral elegant look.
If you're looking for a colour combination that works in all sized spaces and all levels of natural light, a pale blue and warm-toned grey is the way to go. Soft blues and greys can be layered together effortlessly to create an elegant, almost neutral scheme. For a really cohesive look opt for colours that blend so seamlessly you barely notice the difference between the two.

 
Walls : Metropolitan AF-690. Woodwork : Decorators White OC-149. Cabinet : Pashmina AF-100.
 
Style note : Try and pick shades with the same undertones, so generally a cool grey works best with a cool blue, and a warm grey with a warm blue.

Create a vibrant natural harmony with teal.
Teal is a colour that represents balance and calm but will also add a pinch of personality to a space. It's particularly responsive to light, so will warm up a South facing room and add tranquillity to the cooler light of a North facing one. Use in the kitchen to create both an uplifting and soothing space perfect for what is often the busiest room in the home.
Cabinets : Aegean Teal 2136-40. Window frames : Gray Cashmere 2138-60
Style note : Team teal with natural woods drawing on the organic tones of the shade.

Pair with a block colour to truly pack a punch.
As per our previous blog posts primary shades are having a resurgence. Therefore, play on its primary origins and pair it with a bright block of colour. Pops of colour in unusual spaces, like window recesses, creates artwork out of the most common features of your home.
Upper Wall : Downpour Blue 2063-20 Lower Wall : Marblehead Gold HC-11 Door and woodwork : Snow White 2122-70
Style note : The vibrant yellow used on the lower wall section draws your eye and attracts attention to the matching colour pops on the mantle display.

The power of navy.
Navy is the darkest blue and in its true form appears almost black. A strong and traditional colour (it
originally got its name from the British Royal Navy!) it will instantly instil a sense of elegance to a
room. The dark shade creates a gorgeously rich contrast against white trim and interesting
architectural details so works brilliantly in a period property.
Walls : Knoxville Gray HC-160. Accent line : Peanut Shell 2162-40
Style note : Pair with cream-colored furniture and brass light fixtures to elevate this rich hue.

Calm, cool and collected, the colour blue will never go out of fashion and - with a shade for every mood and multiple studies demonstrating its calming qualities it no surprise it continues to be one of the most popular colours across the globe.
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