When decorating a bedroom, one of the most important decisions is choosing the wall color. The color of the walls can affect how restful and relaxing the bedroom feels. Two popular options for bedroom wall colors are dark blue and light blue. But which shade of blue is better for a bedroom? Here are some key factors to consider when deciding between dark blue and light blue for your bedroom walls.
The Psychology Behind Blue
In general, the color blue is associated with calmness, relaxation, and tranquility. It is said to lower blood pressure and heart rate, making it a great color choice for bedrooms. However, dark blues and light blues can evoke slightly different moods.
Dark blues are associated with depth, sophistication, and intimacy. Dark blue bedrooms feel cozy and enveloping, like you are being wrapped in the night sky. Dark blues may make a small bedroom feel even more cramped, but they give spacious bedrooms a lovely enveloping feel.
Light blues feel airy, peaceful, and ethereal. They evoke images of clear skies and are reminiscent of the beach. Light blue bedrooms feel open, soothing, and extremely relaxing.
So in terms of creating a tranquil environment, both shades of blue are excellent choices for bedrooms.
Dark Blue Bedrooms
Here are some of the benefits of choosing a dark blue wall color for your bedroom:
- Sophisticated and elegant – Dark blues like navy or midnight blue feel refined and luxurious.
- Cozy and enveloping – Dark blues make bedrooms feel snug, intimate spaces.
- Gender neutral – Dark blue works well for adult bedrooms of any gender.
- Sets a mood – The dramatic nature of dark blue sets a relaxed yet sensual mood.
- Makes a statement – Dark blue walls create an eye-catching bedroom.
Some things to keep in mind with dark blue bedrooms:
- Can feel confining – In a small space, dark blues may make the room feel cramped.
- Needs proper lighting – Without enough light sources, a dark blue room could feel cave-like.
- Bold statement – Some find dark blue too overwhelming for a bedroom.
Overall, dark blues work best in spacious bedrooms and should be paired with plenty of natural light and adequate artificial lighting. Dark blue is a bold choice that makes a bedroom feel cozy and intimate.
Light Blue Bedrooms
Here are some benefits of light blue bedrooms:
- Peaceful ambiance – Soft, pale blues create a peaceful, relaxing environment.
- Airiness – Light blues feel open, breezy, and spacious.
- Versatile – Many shades of light blue work for kids or adults.
- Gender neutral – Light blues work well for any gender.
- Easy to accessorize – Light blue provides a neutral backdrop for accessories.
Some downsides of light blue bedrooms to keep in mind:
- Less cozy – Light blues don’t feel as snug and enveloping as darker shades.
- Prone to staining – Light blues like sky blue can easily show dirt and stains.
- Boring to some – Light blues may feel too soothing and lack visual interest.
Light blue is an excellent choice if you want a relaxing but crisp, airy feel. It works well in small spaces since it gives the illusion of openness. Just take care to choose a pale blue shade that isn’t too prone to showing stains.
Comparing Dark Blue vs. Light Blue Bedrooms
Here is a comparison of some of the key factors when choosing between dark and light blue paint colors for bedrooms:
| Factor | Dark Blue | Light Blue |
|---|---|---|
| Relaxing ambiance | Yes, but in a cozy, enveloping way | Yes, in an airy, spacious way |
| Gender suitability | Excellent for any gender | Excellent for any gender |
| Works in small spaces | Can feel confining | Gives illusion of openness |
| Prone to stains | Hides stains well | Lighter shades show stains |
| Mood | Sophisticated, intimate | Peaceful, airy |
| Lighting needs | Requires ample lighting | Thrives in natural light |
As you can see, both shades of blue make great bedroom colors. The choice comes down largely to the size of the space and the ambiance you want.
Best Blue Paint Shades for Bedrooms
If you’ve decided to paint your bedroom a soothing shade of blue, here are some of the most popular and attractive blue paint colors for bedrooms:
Dark blue paint colors:
- Midnight Blue – A rich, sultry blue perfect for spacious bedrooms
- Navy – A nautical classic that feels cozy and intimate
- Prussian Blue – A regal, yet relaxed blue if you like darker hues
- Cornflower Blue – A bit brighter than navy, with a vibrant feel
Light blue paint colors:
- Sky Blue – A light, ethereal blue that creates an airy bedroom
- Ice Blue – A crisp, clean pale blue that feels tranquil
- Baby Blue – A soft, relaxing blue perfect for kids or adults
- Blue Bell – A grayish robin’s egg blue that provides subtle color
Be sure to get paint swatches and view colors at different times of day before committing. An accent wall in blue can also be a great alternative to painting the whole room.
Tips for Decorating Blue Bedrooms
Here are some quick tips for stylishly decorating bedrooms with blue walls:
- Let blue be the star – Keep other colors to a minimum so blue can take center stage.
- Add contrasting hues – Accent with neutral taupes, warm metallics, and creamy whites.
- Use multiple lighting sources – Add table lamps, sconces, and natural light.
- Incorporate natural textures – Think wood furniture, linen bedding, wool rugs.
- Repeat blue in soft furnishings – Try a blue patterned comforter, curtains or chair.
With blue walls in a restful shade, decorating choices are flexible. From beachy and modern to traditional and cozy, blue bedrooms can be stylized in any direction.
Conclusion
While both dark and light blue make gorgeous, relaxing bedroom colors, the choice ultimately depends on your space and preferences. Can’t decide between the two? An accent wall in navy or pale blue is a great compromise. With the right furnishings and lighting, any shade of blue can become a beautiful, inviting bedroom retreat. Trust your instincts and choose the tranquil blue hue that speaks to you. Just be sure to get color swatches to view the shades in your space before making a decision.
