Singing the blues

Blue is a much-loved colour, used throughout history by the ancient Chinese, the Egyptians, Greeks, Moors and many other cultures. As a colour it both contrasts and complements most other colours so it is a popular choice, especially for interior design.

On the colour spectrum, it runs the gamut from pale icy blues to sea-kissed turquoise, deepest, darkest navy and every shade in between, which is why it is sometimes difficult to decide which blue is right for you. Ultimately the choice will come down to the room’s orientation, and the effect you wish to create.

In hot sunny rooms, the cooler the hue the better for a light airy feel, while a large room will appear more cosy and intimate in darker blues. Here are some tips:

• When decorating, different shades of blue mix easily, and can be used effectively to create serene schemes such as in a bedroom or to amp it up elsewhere.
• Most colours work well with blue. Warmer hues such as yellow, orange and red will add warmth to a scheme, while neutrals will add style and chic. Blue and white is a classic, used throughout history by the Chinese, the Greeks and other early civilisations.
• Accenting with black, brown and even cream also results in an elegant look, but avoid grey as it tends to make the room feel cold.
• Blue works in any room of the house. Think cabinetry and tiles in the kitchen, paired with wood floors to add warmth, and natural stone for durability. If you want to keep it simple, use blue accessories such as towels in the bathroom, crockery in the kitchen, cushions in the bedroom.