When it comes to interior design and fashion, color mixing can seem like a tricky art. Many people wonder what happens when you mix different shades together. Specifically, beige and blue are two versatile neutral tones that pair beautifully in many contexts. But what exact color do they make when blended together?
Understanding Color Basics
Before diving into the beige and blue color combination, it’s helpful to understand some color theory basics. The primary colors are red, yellow and blue. Secondary colors are created by mixing two primary colors, such as purple (red + blue), green (yellow + blue) and orange (red + yellow). Tertiary colors are made by mixing a primary and secondary color. There are also neutral colors like white, black, gray, brown and beige.
When mixing colors, the resulting shade can be predicted based on the color wheel. Colors opposite each other on the wheel are considered complementary. Colors next to each other are analogous. Mixing analogous colors creates harmonious and soothing color schemes. Complementary colors have high contrast when placed next to each other.
The shade created when mixing colors is also influenced by the quantity of each color used. Using more of one color than another will result in a different look. Additionally, different pigments and mediums can affect the final color outcome.
Beige Color Explained
Now that we’ve reviewed some color basics, let’s take a closer look at beige. Beige is a neutral tone that can have warm, cool or neutral undertones. It falls somewhere between white and brown on the color spectrum. The term “beige” comes from the French word for natural wool that has been neither bleached nor dyed. Thus, it refers to natural cream, tan or light brown shades.
There are many varieties of beige with different names used in design and fashion. Some examples include:
- Camel – Has orange/golden undertones
- Khaki – Earthy green-brown shade
- Champagne – Warm peachy undertone
- Oatmeal – Soft, muted and grayish
- Biscuit – Pinkish tan
- Taupe – Gray-brown
- Mink – Grayish brown with purple undertones
Beige is extremely versatile and works with a wide range of color schemes. It acts as a neutral background that lets other accent colors stand out. Beige can help tie a space together, create softness and infuse warmth.
Blue Color Explained
The primary color blue falls between violet and green on the color wheel. It is considered a cool, calm color associated with the sky and water. Blue has many different shades, tints and tones. These can range from the coldest icy blues to warmer navy shades. Here are some of the most popular blue hues:
- Navy – Dark blue with black undertones
- Powder – Very pale, soft blue
- Sky – Light blue with hints of cyan
- Periwinkle – Blue with hints of lilac
- Royal – Deep rich blue
- Steel – Blue-gray color
- Denim – Traditional blue jean color
In design, blue is a heavily used cool accent color. It represents calm, tranquility, intelligence and focus. Light blues can feel airy and spacious, while darker blues seem more grounded and stable. Blue complements warm colors like orange, yellow and red.
Mixing Beige and Blue
Now let’s get to the central question – what color results from combining beige and blue? Since beige is a neutral tone, the resulting color will primarily be a shade of blue. However, the specific beige hue used impacts the end result.
For example, mixing a warm sandy beige and a cool mid-tone blue will create a blue-gray shade. The beige subtly mutes and softens the blue. Taupe beige mixed with baby blue makes a muted pastel blue-gray. A camel beige paired with navy blue deepens the blue very slightly. Essentially, the beige acts as a subduing and softening agent on the vibrancy of the blue.
The proportions of each color also matter. Using more neutral beige than blue will mute the blue into a haze of blue-gray. A smaller amount of beige against more blue will result in a brighter, truer blue. The medium used to mix the colors also impacts the shade. Mixing beige and blue paints will look slightly different than blending those fabric dyes, for example.
Beige and Blue Color Palettes
Now that we understand how beige and blue interact, let’s look at some stunning color schemes using this versatile combination:
Soft Blue-Gray Palette
- Pale Powder Blue
- Warm Oatmeal Beige
- Dove Gray
- Cream Ivory
These muted, subtle colors are perfect for a relaxing bedroom or spa. The oatmeal beige tempers the cool powder blue into a soothing blue-gray. Ivory and dove gray provide neutral contrast.
Vibrant Blue with Beige
- Royal Blue
- Gold Camel Beige
- Orange Red
- Off White
For a bold, lively look, pair deeper blues with warm beige. The camel beige prevents the royal blue from feeling overpowering. Orange is a complementary accent and white adds brightness.
Monochromatic Blue Scheme
- Navy Blue
- Sky Blue
- Pale Blue
- Taupe Beige
Sticking to shades of blue with beige creates a soothing, minimalist look. The taupe beige enhances the subtle variations between light and dark blues.
Analogous Cool Colors
- Periwinkle Blue
- Lavender Purple
- Pale Blue
- Light Beige
Analogous colors are next to each other on the color wheel, creating easy harmony. Light beige prevents this soft, airy palette from feeling washed out.
Using Beige and Blue in Design
Now that we’ve explored beige and blue color combinations, how can you effectively use them in design? Here are some tips:
- Balance proportions – Don’t let beige or blue overwhelm the scheme. Use 60-30% ratios for dominant and accent colors.
- Consider undertones – Match warm beiges with deeper blues and pair cool beiges with lighter blues.
- Add metallic accents – Brushed gold, silver and copper elements can enhance beige-blue color schemes.
- Use textural contrast – Mix smooth and soft textures with sleek, hard finishes.
- Add artwork – Incorporate abstract blue artwork and prints to reinforce the color scheme.
Some specific ways to utilize beige-blue color schemes include:
- Wall paint, furniture and accessories in a living room
- An accent wall and throw pillows in a bedroom
- Upholstered furniture and area rugs in a lounge
- Kitchen cabinetry, tiles and appliances
- Bathroom paint colors, towels and decor
Conclusion
Beige and blue might seem like an unexpected combination, but they can pair beautifully. Beige takes the edge off bright blues, while blue punctuates soft beige. The resulting color is generally a muted, soothing blue-gray. Carefully balancing the proportions and undertones is key. Both beige and blue are versatile neutral colors that work in any room. Now that you know how to mix the perfect beige-blue scheme, you can use it to create a relaxing yet lively interior space.
