Earlier this year, the ‘unexpected red theory’ trend gained traction with interior designers and home decorators around the world. Coined by Brooklyn-based interior designer Taylor Migliazzo Simon, the idea involves adding a subtle, surprising pop of red in a room to elevate the overall look. Now, design lovers are turning concept to a new primary colour: blue.
“From what we previously saw with the booming popularity of the unexpected red theory, I know we can expect the same for this similar trend,” says fashion expert Adam Laws. “We know that blue, and cobalt blue in particular, has a timeless appeal.”
According to research, the colour blue creates a sense of calm and makes people feel more comfortable. Plus, the soothing hue looks good with a variety of interior schemes. Below, we reveal everything you need to know about the unexpected blue theory and how to make it work in your home.
Bring blue accents into your home
Blue is the colour of clear skies and peaceful landscapes such as oceans, lakes and rivers. As such, it works well as a paint colour on large walls – especially in relaxing zones such as bedrooms and living areas. The diverse shade also works well in smaller doses, such as soft furnishings or bold home decor items, like a coffee table book or mirror.
The key is to add a splash of blue (big or small) in a place where it doesn’t naturally belong. This is an age-old trick used by interior designers to inject a sense of freshness and an element of surprise into a room that’s looking too tonal.
Contrast blue with timber accents
If you’ve gone for bigger splashes of blue, break it up with layers of texture, patterns and prints to ensure the overall vibe is more welcoming than overwhelming. Style bold, navy blue back with dark timber flooring, like Choices Flooring’s Plantino Laminate Aqua in a gorgeous barrel oak colour. If you’re using sky blue hues, invest in something softer like Plantino Engineered Timber Flinders Forest, which is inspired by the beauty of nature.
Timber flooring is an excellent way to ground a colour-drenched space, as it creates a neutral base to anchor a room. From there, mix and match heavy furnishings with lighter accessories, such as linen pillows, to create balance throughout the home.
Shop ‘unexpected blue’ pieces
Choices Flooring Evoke Rug
From $308
Maison Balzac The Bold Stool
$795
Sheet Society Cotton Arlo Towels
From $70
Wilson & Dorset Shaggy Bean Bag
$1890
Rogue Faux Hydrangea Mix – Dahlia Bowl
$629.99
Fazeek Wave Coupe Glasses
$119
This article originally appeared on Home Beautiful and is republished here with permission.
