Colour Focus: Dark Blue

Monochrome revisited

Dark blue with soft colours

There are a few ways in which you can use a dark blue colour as part of your home design. A popular and more conservative use for dark blue is to pair it with soft colours. Neutrals will compare and contrast with dark blue, as will striking pure whites. Essentially, consider using dark blue as a more elegant option in a monochrome space than black.

If the majority of your space is already white or a pale shade – consider a dark blue Roman blind or even a voluminous velvet curtain. Velvet holds its colour beautifully and when that colour is navy, it becomes the epitome of sophistication.

Alternatively, if your space is already dark blue, look toward white or cream window dressings, sofas or hard furniture.

Dark blue colour shades with mustard

If you want to take one step closer towards a more daring décor, navy blue will also pair well with more noticeable colours, especially another rising trend, mustard yellow. The darker the blue, the better – mustard is a charismatic colour and will enhance blue tones including navy and indigo. In return, these blue hues will enrich the yellow adding a subtle depth to the colour.

Energising jewels with dark blue

To create a more modern space, you can consider turning the tables and replacing blue velvet with velvet items in a vibrant jewel tone – such as emerald, sapphire, or ruby – to support dark blue walls.

Dark blue feature walls

If the walls of your room aren’t perfectly square – for example you have a built-out area to support a chimney – the contrast between shade and light will create an additional dimension to the style of your space. Dark blue feature walls work especially well in this regard.

Jewel tones and velvet

In a room where dark blue is more prominent, jewel tones will add an extra splash of colour without stealing the show. Contrasting against the walls, velvet chairs and/or cushions will be the perfect supporting act. If, however you’d like the jewel tones on your windows, more angular furnishings will be the wisest option.

For example, just picture a Bordeaux red velvet Roman blind adding that extra layer of sophistication to an already fashionable living room. For the more daring among our readership, consider using velvet in a stunning warming orange tone.