Blue is one of the most popular colors for painting walls, especially in bedrooms, bathrooms, and other relaxing spaces. But is blue actually a warm or cool paint color? The answer is more complex than you may think.
The basics of color temperature
In color theory, paint colors are categorized by their temperature – either warm or cool. Warm paint colors include reds, yellows, and oranges. They give off feelings of energy, brightness, and warmth. Cool paint colors include blues, greens, and purples. They evoke feelings of tranquility, calmness, and cooling.
Color temperature is relative. A color temperature considered cool can seem warm when put next to an even cooler color. Context matters when perceiving color temperature.
Is blue warm or cool?
Blue is universally considered a cool color. It calls to mind cool things like water, ice, and the sky. Decorators also classify blue as a cool color because of its relaxing effect. Rooms painted blue tend to have a serene vibe.
However, some shades of blue read as warmer than others. The temperature of a blue paint depends on:
- Shade – Light blues are cooler, while navy blues are warmer.
- Undertones – Blues with red or yellow undertones are warmer than pure blues.
- Surrounding colors – Blues will read warmer next to cooler greens or purples.
Warm shades of blue paint
Here are some examples of blue paint colors that read as warm:
| Paint Color | Undertone |
|---|---|
| Navy blue | Often has warm red undertones |
| Royal blue | Deep shade naturally appears warm |
| Denim blue | Greyish tone makes it warmer |
| Periwinkle blue | Has hints of warm purple |
| Robin’s egg blue | Touches of warm green |
These blue hues have enough yellow or red in them to give off a cozy, welcoming vibe. They are lively rather than icy.
Cool shades of blue paint
Here are some classic cool shades of blue paint:
| Paint Color | Description |
|---|---|
| Air Force blue | Crisp, pure blue |
| Powder blue | Light pastel blue |
| Blue Iris | Grey-toned blue |
| Duck egg blue | Pale, greyish aqua |
| Iceberg blue | Crisp, bright blue |
These blues are muted and have grey, green, or purple undertones. They read as cool and refreshing.
Tips for using blue paint colors
Here are some tips on selecting and using blue paint colors:
- Light blues work best in dark, small rooms – Darker blues can make a small space feel closed in.
- Go for warm navy blues in living spaces – Warm shades encourage relaxation in spaces like living rooms.
- Use bright blues sparingly – Vivid blues work best on accent walls or furniture.
- Pair warm blues with orange – Orange is blue’s complementary color and creates a lively feel.
- Pair cool blues with greens and greys – Blue-green-grey is a soothing cool palette.
Warm blue paint color combinations
Some warm, inviting blue paint schemes include:
- Navy blue, butter yellow, and white – Coastal combo
- Royal blue, rich orange, and ivory – Vintage flair
- Denim blue, sage green, and antique white – Relaxed rustic vibe
- Robin’s egg blue, peach, and light wood – Springtime palette
Cool blue paint color combinations
Some refreshing cool blue color schemes include:
- Light blue, seafoam green, and tan – Beachy blues
- Iceberg blue, pale grey, and silver – Arctic chill
- Periwinkle blue, lavender, and white – Vintage romance
- Powder blue, pale yellow, and ivory – Sweetheart palette
Warm or cool blue for bedrooms
Blue is one of the top paint colors for bedrooms, but which temperature is best? Here are some guidelines:
- Warm hues encourage relaxation – Go for navy blues if you want a cozy sanctuary.
- Cool tones feel more energizing – Pick an icy blue to feel refreshed in the mornings.
- Dark blues can make a small bedroom seem smaller – Stick to light or medium blues.
- Green-blues are soothing if you have sleeping issues – The blue-green palette is very serene.
You can also paint an accent wall or choose bedding in an opposite temperature to provide contrast.
Warm or cool blue for bathrooms
Blue is a top color for bathrooms because it evokes feelings of cleanliness and water. For bathrooms:
- Cool greens and blues create a spa vibe – A light powder blue reads as crisp and refreshing.
- Warm blues feel more inviting – Try a denim blue for a cozy, vintage look.
- Don’t use dark navy blues in a small bathroom – This can make the space feel closed in.
- Robin’s egg blue is cheerful yet soothing – It’s gender-neutral and works with most styles.
Conclusion
While blue is considered a cool color, many shades of blue paint have warm undertones. Context also affects the color temperature. In most cases, lighter blues appear cooler and darker blues seem warmer. To make a final decision on choosing a warm or cool blue paint for your space, be sure to test swatches and view paint chips in the room you plan to paint.
The shade you choose will affect the overall mood of the room. Warm blues create a cozy, relaxed feeling, while cool blues feel more energizing. Mind the undertones and surrounding colors to get the right ambiance for your space.
