Incorporating shades of blue into your kitchen design can create a serene and relaxing feel. From light and airy sky blues to dramatic navy hues, blue is a versatile color that pairs well with many design styles. Here are some tips and ideas for using blue to create a tranquil kitchen sanctuary.
Why Choose Blue for Your Kitchen
Blue is often considered a calming and peaceful color, associated with the sky and sea. Using different shades of blue in your kitchen can help promote relaxation and create a soothing environment. Here are some of the benefits of having a blue kitchen:
- Creates a Spa-Like Feeling – Light blue colors give off a relaxing, spa-like vibe. The cool tones are reminiscent of water and can have a calming effect.
- Stimulates Appetite – Interestingly, the color blue can actually stimulate appetite! So embracing blue in the kitchen may get those tastebuds activated.
- Provides Contrast – Blue works nicely as a contrasting color against warm wood cabinets and stainless steel appliances. The mix of cool and warm tones create visual interest.
- Enhances Natural Light – Light blues help brighten up a space and make it feel more airy and illuminated. Especially with abundant natural light, it will bounce around beautifully.
- Classic and Timeless – Navy, baby blue, sky blue – these are classic colors that will stay in style for years to come. Blue kitchens have a timeless, traditional charm.
So if you’re looking to make your kitchen an uplifting yet calm space, blue can help create that ambiance beautifully. From soft pastel blues to deep navy hues, it is a versatile shade to incorporate.
Best Blue Paint Colors for Kitchens
When selecting a blue paint color for your kitchen, you want to consider the undertones and how light or dark you want to go. Here are some of the most popular blue paint colors for kitchens:
Airy Light Blues
- Benjamin Moore Crystalline: This is a light sky blue with gentle grey undertones. It will read as a soft, breathable blue.
- Sherwin Williams Reflection: Slightly lighter than crystalline, this icy blue has a crisp, clean feel.
- Benjamin Moore Sky Blue: As the name implies, this is a light blue that mimics the hue of a bright sky.
- Valspar Lakeshore Fog: A very pale blue-gray that gives off an airy, serene vibe. Great for cottage kitchens.
- Behr Daydream: This has a slightly greener undertone for a tranquil sage blue color. Perfect for contemporary kitchens.
Vibrant Blues
- Benjamin Moore Hale Navy: A rich,opacity that creates drama and contrast.
- Sherwin Williams Naval: A darker navy blue that still reads clean and bright thanks to its hint of green undertones.
- Benjamin Moore Lapis Lazuli: This deep blue has a jewel-tone feel, lending vibrancy and character to a kitchen.
Blue-Green Hues
- Valspar Seaglass: A muted blue-green blend that mimics ocean glass. Works well in bathrooms and kitchens alike.
- Benjamin Moore Grey Cashmere: More subtle green-grey undertones lend modern, versatile style.
- Behr Island Oasis: This aqua blue has crisp green undertones for a tropical vibe. Cheerful for cottage kitchens.
Warm Blue Undertones
- Sherwin Williams Tradewind: A grayish blue with subtle brown undertones has an earthy feel.
- Benjamin Moore Patriot Blue: A touch of violet gives this blue a warmer, more elegant vibe.
- Valspar Narragansett: Deeper than a sky blue, with mineral undertones of gray and brown. A rich azure.
No matter which direction you go – light or dark, green or grey undertones – blue offers lots of great kitchen color options. Consider the look you want and test out sample paint swatches before committing to the perfect hue.
Ideas for Incorporating Blue Kitchen Cabinets
One of the most eye-catching ways to incorporate blue into your kitchen design is through the cabinets. Blue kitchen cabinets make a strong style statement. Here are some ideas for using blue cabinets effectively:
- For a beachy look, try light blue cabinets paired with white countertops and accents of navy and coral. Add touches like beadboard panels, oars, and seashell decor.
- Soft gray blue cabinets look gorgeous against warm wood countertops and stainless steel appliances. The mix of cool and warm tones is harmonious.
- Make a bold statement with deep navy blue cabinets. They will pop nicely against white quartz countertops. For contrast, use brass fixtures.
- Pastel blue cabinets lend a sweet, feminine cottage charm to kitchens. Pair them with vintage-inspired accents and antique white countertops.
- For a more eclectic and rustic feel, use weathered blue cabinets with visible wood grains and textures. Combine with butcher block countertops.
- If you want blue cabinets but are hesitant to commit to a whole kitchen set, start with just one blue focal cabinet, like an island or range hood cover.
Whatever shade of blue you choose, this color makes a dramatic impact in kitchen cabinetry. Just be sure to coordinate the rest of the elements – countertops, backsplash, hardware – to complement your blue cabinets.
Backsplash Ideas for Blue Kitchens
The backsplash is the perfect place to continue your blue kitchen theme or add a pop of contrasting color. Consider these backsplash ideas for kitchens with blue accents:
Matching Blues
Selecting a backsplash tile in the same blue tone as your cabinets or walls is a foolproof choice. The matching blue will create flow and harmony.
- Blue Moroccan fish scale tiles
- Navy blue penny tiles
- Baby blue subway tile
- Ombre sky to navy mosaic tile
Contrasting Blues
Go for backsplash contrast with a lighter or darker blue than your cabinets. This adds needed visual intrigue.
- Pale blue glass tile with navy cabinets
- Deep blue fretwork tiles with robin’s egg cabinets
Neutral Backsplashes
Let your blue cabinets shine by choosing a neutral backsplash in cream, gray, or white.
- Carrara marble slab backsplash
- Gray quartz field tile
- Creamy white brick backsplash tile
Pops of Color
Add an unexpected pop of contrasting color with your backsplash behind blue kitchen cabinets or walls.
- Sea green glass mosaic tile
- Coral or salmon mini subway tile
- Sunny yellow ceramic tile
Whatever backsplash design you choose, it’s a great opportunity to complement your blue kitchen elements and add more color and interest into your design scheme.
Countertop Options for Blue Kitchens
When selecting countertops for a blue-themed kitchen, you’ll want options that support your color scheme but also provide necessary contrast. Here are some winning countertop ideas:
- White quartz or marble countertops pair beautifully with blue cabinets in any shade. Crisp white next to sky blue or navy cabinets looks classic.
- Butcher block offers gorgeous contrasting warmth against cooler blue cabinets or walls. Opt for wood with orangey undertones.
- Concrete countertops provide an earthy vibe that complements bold or bright blue kitchen elements.
- More budget-friendly options like laminate in black, navy, or white can coordinate well with blue color schemes.
- Stainless steel countertops are sleek and modern companions to vibrant blue cabinetry in need of some neutrality.
Depending on the look you’re going for, don’t forget to consider how countertop edges, backsplashes, and grout colors also factor into your blue kitchen design. Tying all the elements together harmoniously is key.
Flooring to Go With a Blue Kitchen
Flooring can make a big impact in a blue kitchen. You have lots of styles to choose from:
Hardwood Floors
The natural warmth of wood floors balances out cool blue tones perfectly.
- For light blues, opt for maple, birch, or ash woods to keep things airy.
- With deeper blues, go for oak or walnut floors to add great contrast.
Tile Floors
Tiles come in such a vast array of colors, sizes, patterns and materials. Select tiles that complement your blue kitchen.
- Neutral shades like grey, beige, or off-white tiles allow vibrant blue accents to pop.
- Blue and white mosaic tiles connect to your blue kitchen theme.
- Subway tiles with blue veining or stenciling effects look minimal yet still ties in blue tones.
Vinyl Floors
Vinyl flooring is budget-friendly and comes in blue shades, patterns, and mimics of other materials like wood and marble.
- Sheet vinyl in a light to mid-tone blue can lift a small kitchen.
- Blue speckled vinyl plank flooring adds subtle interest.
- Vinyl “marble” or “travertine” in soft blue-grays beautifully suit the space.
Other Options
- Natural stone slabs like bluish-gray soapstone, Carrara marble, or slate.
- Polished concrete floors in a cool grey-blue hue.
- Bluepatterned porcelain, glass or cork tiles.
Whatever flooring you select, aim for a color and style that complements your goals for a serene, spa-like blue kitchen atmosphere. Let it amplify the soothing vibe you want to create.
Best Paint Colors to Pair With a Blue Kitchen
The walls provide the perfect opportunity to complement your blue-centric kitchen design. Depending on the cabinet, tile, and countertop colors, select wall paints that tie the whole space together.
With lighter blue cabinets or backsplashes: Use airy paint colors like silvery grays, light taupes, creamy whites and pale blues for harmony. Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace is a great ethereal option.
With navy blue cabinets: Pair with crisp whites, beiges, or soft sage greens to contrast and let the drama of the cabinets shine. Try Valspar Maritime White.
With a vibrant mix of blue elements: Ground the space with neutral earth tones like warm grays, chestnut browns, or sand beiges. Think Sherwin Williams Accessible Beige.
All blue kitchen: For whole blue kitchens, go for contrast with dark charcoal grays, black, or greige wall colors. Or complement it with similar blue hues in a lighter tone.
Whatever colors you choose for walls, trim, doors and moldings, select hues that complement your blue kitchen components for a soothing, harmonious look.
Furniture & Decor Ideas for a Blue Kitchen
Furnishings and decor elements are finishing touches that let you fully embrace the blue theme. Pick items that enhance the tranquil vibe you want to achieve.
Table and Chairs
- Distressed wood table in oak or driftwood tone
- Woven water hyacinth chairs in neutral tan or sky blue
- Clear acrylic modern chairs
- Rattan or wicker seating for cottage charm
Stools
- Navy blue barstools
- Light blue ceramic garden stools
- White and blue patterned island stools
Window Treatments
- Sheer white curtains for light and breezy feel
- Navy roman shades for drama
- Valances and trims in matching or contrasting blues
Accessories
- seashells, glass bottles, driftwood
- blue and white ceramics
- ocean-inspired artwork
- glass bowl of lemons
Textiles
- Table runners in navy stripes or nautical motifs
- Sky blue and tan patterned dish towels
- Coral, yellow, or sea glass green pops of accent color
Keep accessories minimal and opt for eco-friendly natural materials like wood, wicker, and cotton wherever possible. The goal is to keep your blue kitchen looking tranquil and breezy.
Best Lighting for a Blue Kitchen
Proper lighting can make or break a kitchen. When designing a blue kitchen, consider lighting that enhances the calm ambiance.
Natural Light
Maximize windows, skylights, and any source of natural light. Sheer curtains over windows will still allow light to fill the blue space.
Overhead
Overhead lighting like pendant lights centered over islands or sinks provide ample task lighting. Go for clear glass or sea glass pendants.
Under Cabinet
Strip LED lighting underneath upper cabinets not only illuminates countertops but also creates a glowing blue ambiance in the evening.
Track Lighting
Directional track lights in cool hues can spotlight key areas in the kitchen when needed.
Dimmers
Installing dimmer switches allows you to control the lighting mood – bright for cooking, dim for relaxing.
Cove Lighting
Cove lighting around the tops of walls or cabinets casts a subtle blue glow over the entire kitchen space.
The goal is to have lighting options ranging from bright and functional for tasks to dimmer evening vibes. This way your blue kitchen can transition seamlessly from day to night while remaining serene.
8 Soothing Blue Kitchen Palettes
Here are some inspiring blue kitchen color palettes to spark ideas:
Navy and Marble
Deep navy cabinets, white Carrara marble counters, gold hardware
Robin’s Egg and Wood
Robin’s egg blue cabinets, oak butcher block counters, subway tile
Beach Cottage
Sky blue walls and cabinets, sandy beige counters, driftwood accent table
Eclectic Chic
Midnight blue island, brass fixtures, checkerboard floors, gallery wall
Country Casual
Powder blue walls, white paneled cabinets, butcher block island, gingham curtains
Contemporary
Cobalt blue backsplash, glossy white cabinets, stainless accents, pendant lights
Vintage
Robin’s egg cabinets, farmhouse sink, terra cotta backsplash, lemon accents
Coastal
Pale blue walls, weathered white cabinets, cement counters, floating shelves
Creating a Soothing, Spa-Like Vibe
A few final tips for bringing your blue kitchen together into a supremely relaxing space:
- Incorporate natural elements like woven baskets, wood cutting boards, shells, smooth stones
- Use calming aromas like lavender, sage, lemon, and basil
- Play relaxing music like gentle jazz, light classical, or ocean wave sounds
- Allow abundant natural light during the day and dimmer lighting at night
- Minimize clutter and choose peaceful artworks or vases of flowers
- Keep some counters and walls white for a clean, open look
- Incorporate comfy textiles like cotton dish towels and cozy window coverings
- Add touches of green with live plants or herbs
With its cool, soothing palette, a thoughtfully designed blue kitchen provides respite from busy days and sets the stage for relaxation. Use these ideas to craft your own personal sanctuary of tranquil blue hues.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blue Kitchen Designs
What are the most popular shades of blue for kitchens?
Some of the most popular blues for kitchen designs include airy, peaceful tones like sky blue, ice blue, crystal blue, and robin’s egg blue. Bolder navy blue and cobalt blue kitchens are also trending and provide dramatic contrast.
What kind of counters go well with blue cabinets?
White, beige, gray, and wood-toned countertops like butcher block pair beautifully with blue cabinets. Materials like marble, quartz, concrete, and stainless steel complement almost all shades of blue.
Should I paint my lower cabinets a different color than the uppers?
Yes, using two different blue tones or painting lower cabinets white while keeping blue uppers can add nice contrast. Just be sure the colors complement each other.
What backsplash should I use with navy kitchen cabinets?
Navy cabinets suit backsplashes in lighter blues, beiges, whites, or pops of contrasting colors like yellow, coral, or sage green. Natural stone like marble or metal tile also complements navy beautifully.
Can I use blue kitchen cabinets with oak floors?
Definitely! Oak floors provide gorgeous contrast against blue cabinets in any shade. The warm wood tones balance out the cool blue colors nicely.
What are good wall colors for a robin’s egg blue kitchen?
Soft sage greens, light taupes, grays, and antique whites make excellent wall colors to pair with robin’s egg or powder blue kitchen cabinets and decor. Keep walls light to enhance the airy vibe.
How do I add rustic and beachy charm to my blue kitchen?
Incorporate reclaimed wood or whitewashed plank walls, rope accents, wicker baskets, shells, and sand dollars. Paint or stain an old side table light blue for cottage appeal. Add accents in colors like coral and mustard yellow.
Final Thoughts on Designing a Tranquil Blue Kitchen
A blue kitchen design presents so many options, from barely-there baby blue to dramatic navy hues. Lively, bright blues can stimulate the senses while softer shades create a relaxing oasis. Incorporating different textures, natural materials, and pops of accent colors can enhance your blue kitchen’s cozy charm even more.
With an endless array of blue paints, tiles, cabinetry and decor items now available, you can craft a custom blue kitchen sanctuary that suits your personal taste and lifestyle needs. Just remember to seek out balance and harmony between all the elements. The goal is a space that feels comforting yet visually interesting at the same time.
Whether you opt for a crisp nautical vibe with white and navy, a cheerful cottage look