Dark blue is a popular color choice for bedrooms, but some wonder if it is the right shade to paint the walls or decorate with. The color psychology and aesthetic appeal of dark blue can influence how relaxing or inspiring a bedroom feels. Considering factors like lighting, furniture, and personal taste can help determine if dark blue is a good fit for your master suite or guest room. Looking at the pros and cons of dark blue bedrooms can help make the best decision for your space.
Pros of a Dark Blue Bedroom
Here are some of the benefits that dark blue walls and decor can offer in a bedroom:
Calming and Peaceful
Darker shades of blue are thought to have a calming, tranquil effect on the mind and body. The cool tones are reminiscent of soothing water features, like the ocean or a tranquil lake. Studies show that people are more productive and relaxed in blue rooms. The serene quality of dark blue is perfect for winding down at the end of the day and getting restful sleep.
Sophisticated Style
Deeper blues have an elegant, sophisticated aesthetic when used in home decorating. Navy blue walls or bedding give off an expensive, luxurious vibe. Dark blue evokes feelings of trust and professionalism as well, making it an ideal color for home offices and studies. The timeless, refined look of dark blue makes an impressive statement in a master bedroom.
Cozy and Inviting
Though dark blue has a cooling effect visually, it can create a cozy, enveloping feel in bedrooms. The enclosure of darker walls makes the space feel intimate and sheltering. Deeper blue tones are often described as romantic and charming when used in bedrooms. The cocooning effect provides comfort and the feeling of being wrapped in a big hug.
Easy to Accessorize
One great thing about dark blue is that it works with a wide range of colors and materials. Everything from crisp white and silver to warm wood tones pairs beautifully with navy or deep teal walls. You can layer on textures like soft linens or add pops of color with art, pillows, and rugs. Dark blue is a versatile backdrop that accepts many styles of furniture and accents.
Cons of a Dark Blue Bedroom
Though beautiful, darker blue tones do come with some disadvantages for bedrooms:
Can Feel Cold
While psychologically calming, the cool undertones of dark blues can sometimes translate to an icy, stark feel in a room. Without enough cozy textures and warm accent colors, a navy blue room risks feeling sterile and uninviting. Proper lighting is key to making sure dark blue doesn’t come across as too cold and unfriendly.
Lighting Needs Cconsideration
The liquid depth of deep blue can look muddy or black without proper illumination. Overhead lighting often needs to be brighter to sufficiently brighten a darker blue room. Natural light sources like ample windows are very helpful as well. The lighting needs extra thought so that dark blue reads as vibrant, not dismal.
A Bold Statement
Not everyone feels comfortable sleeping in a dark blue cocoon all night. The intensity of deep blues makes a strong statement that some find overwhelming as a whole room color. Lighter blues and aquas have more universal appeal. Dark blue works best for bedrooms in homes with a modern, dramatic flair.
Not for Small Rooms
Using dark blue paint on bedroom walls is generally not recommended for small spaces. The intensity can close in on you and make a petite room feel even more cramped. However, you can use navy blue for accent walls or bedding to get the cozy feel without overwhelming a small bedroom.
Tips for Decorating with Dark Blue
Here are some top tips for beautifully incorporating deep blues into bedroom design:
Go for Variation
Sticking to all one dark blue shade can risk feeling one-dimensional. Layer in some lighter blues, pretty teals, and even a touch of green for a watercolor effect. This keeps the space visually interesting. Try dark blue walls with a teal headboard, for example.
Add Warm Metallics
Warm metallic accents like brass, copper, and gold help balance out cool-toned blues. Metallic nightstands, table lamps, or curtain rods add a touch of glamour and prevent the space from feeling too icy. Deep blue color schemes shine with these luxe accents.
Play with Patterns and Textures
Fluffy pillows, cozy knit blankets, and tactile bedding help make dark blue feel welcoming. Stripes, florals, or moroccan patterns on cushions and rugs also add movement. Pair matte dark blue walls with high-gloss furnishings for extra depth.
Up the Lighting
Get ample overhead lighting, lamps, sconces, and natural light to keep a dark blue room bright and airy. Use dimmers to control the mood as needed. Up-lighting behind the bed can make it feel like a relaxing oasis. Illumination is key.
Accent Wall It
Paint just one wall dark blue to get the cozy feel without overwhelming a small bedroom. Use it on the wall behind the bed for maximum impact. Flank it with soft neutral walls and bedding for balance. The pop of color makes a stylish statement.
Best Colors to Pair with Dark Blue
Here are some of the most compatible colors for pairing with navy, cobalt, or inky blue walls and decor:
Crisp White
White offers great contrast and brightness next to the depth of dark blue. Use it on bed frames, molding, furniture, and decor accents for a nautical vibe. White provides balance.
Silver or Pewter
Metallic silver and pewter make an elegant pairing with rich blues. The sheen adds interest and ties into blue’s association with water. Use silver lamps, picture frames, vases and other accents throughout the space.
Warm Wood Tones
Natural wood finishes complement navy’s cool tones, lending coziness to a bedroom. Walnut, oak, cedar and teak work beautifully with deep blues. Use wood furniture, flooring and decorative trays.
Sage Green
Earthy greens enhance the soothing feel of blue bedrooms. Painting the molding sage green or using green bedding pops nicely. Green relates to nature, emphasizing restfulness.
Warm Neutrals
Softer beiges, tans and chocolate browns create a cocooning effect with dark blues. Use textiles like curtains, sheets and bed skirts in creamy ivories or camel hues. It grounds the space.
Lighting Tips for Dark Blue Bedrooms
Proper lighting prevents a dark blue bedroom from feeling too somber. Here are some top tips:
- Opt for bright overhead lighting, at least 150 watts
- Use ample lamps on both nightstands, at least 60 watts each
- Add sconces on either side of the bed for reading light
- Use sheer curtains to filter in natural light
- Install dimmer switches to control ambiance
- Up-light behind headboards creates drama
- Reflective surfaces like mirrors brighten up the space
The key is making sure the room has sufficient task lighting for activities as well as warm accent lighting for ambiance. Combining different light sources ensures the true color comes through.
Dark Blue Bedrooms by Style
Here are some ideas for confidently using dark blue in bedrooms of various style aesthetics:
Modern
Dark blue makes a chic, modern statement when paired with crisp whites and metallic accents. Platform beds, white bedding, and sleek nightstands keep the look contemporary. Navy blue invigorates the space.
| Bed Frame | Bedding | Decor |
|---|---|---|
| White lacquer | White with navy trim | Chrome lamps |
| Upholstered gray | Solid navy comforter | Silver mirrored side tables |
Traditional
In a traditional bedroom, dark blue takes on a classic, refined feel. Floral bedding, wood furniture and gilt mirrors give it timeless appeal. Toile curtains and Persian carpets complement the look.
| Furniture | Textiles | Artwork |
|---|---|---|
| Cherry wood bed | Toile bed skirt | Botanical prints |
| Matching nightstands | Velvet pillows | Oil paintings |
Bohemian
For a laid-back boho bedroom, pair dark blue with natural textures and patterns. Woven blankets, macrame wall hangings, and carved wood furnishings feel earthy. Distressed wood floors suit the casual vibe.
| Bed | Lighting | Window Treatments |
|---|---|---|
| Wrought iron frame | Hanging lanterns | Embroidered cotton curtains |
| White canopy | Candle wall sconces | Fringed tapestries |
Coastal
Nothing says coastal like deep navy blue and white together. Add natural textures like rattan and driftwood paired with pretty teal accents. White paneled walls and shutters enhance the beach house vibe.
| Bedding | Fabrics | Furniture |
|---|---|---|
| Navy and white stripes | Linen pillow shams | Rattan headboard |
| Sailor knot blankets | Textured cotton sheets | Whitewashed nightstands |
Dark Blue Paint Colors for Bedrooms
Here are some favorite navy and deep blue paint shades for bedrooms:
| Paint Color | Paint Brand |
|---|---|
| Midnight Blue | Benjamin Moore |
| Blue Danube | Behr |
| Naval | Sherwin-Williams |
| Blue Ballad | Valspar |
| Sail Cloth | Valspar |
Be sure to get color swatches and samples before committing to a dark blue paint color. Viewing them on the wall at different times of day helps ensure the shade works with the bedroom’s particular lighting. An accent wall is a smart initial step.
Conclusion
Dark blue can be an elegant, inviting choice for bedrooms when executed thoughtfully. The serene color has many attributes, like its calming effect on the mind. But considerations like making sure the small space doesn’t get overwhelmed or feel too cold are important. Balancing it with warm metallics, crisp whites, and adequate lighting creates a comfortably cocooning oasis. For the right home and room, a splash or drenching of navy blue sets the stage for stylish, restful sleep.
