How to Use & Not Use Blue in Decorating

Blue is a calming color. It reminds people of the sky or the ocean. Pictures of trickling streams or lush waterfalls fill our minds. This is why it is a favorite in decorating. The article "How Colors May Affect Your Productivity and Success" on the Business Journal Website explains the color psychology behind this by saying how it "lowers blood pressure, the pulse rate and body temperature." (1) Here are the dos and don'ts of using it in interior design.

How to Use Blue in Decorating- The Dos of Interior Design
Do use in areas that you want to unwind and de-stress. Bedrooms and bathrooms benefit from the relaxing hue. Nurseries, TV rooms and other family rooms become cozy and relaxing if this colors is worked into the color scheme

Decorate with it in home office's if you are in a creative field of work, artist's spaces and children's rooms. It is known to enhance creativity

Do use a darker version for a home office that clients visit in as well. Studies have shown that a Navy Blue commands respect and instills a sense of strength and dependability.

How Not to Use Blue in Decorating- The Don'ts of Interior Design
Don't use in eating areas, such as kitchens, dining rooms or entertaining places where you consistently serve food. It is considered one of the least appetizing colors. (Unless of course you are on a diet.)

Do not decorate with too much of it in home office's if your career is analytical, such as in accounting. Though it boosts creativity, the calming effect of the hue is not conducive to "being on your toes" or catching smaller details.

Don't use for rooms that house meetings where attendees need to be pumped up or excited by a specific product or campaign. Too much relaxation during crucial times or tight deadlines may be deadly to your business or other career agendas.

Figuring out how to use and not use blue in decorating is, as always is the case with interior design, about trial and error. Just because one variance of the hue may be conducive to the activities in a space, does not automatically mean that it appeals personally to you. Surround yourself with shades that express your unique personality and make you feel the emotions that you want to be brought out in your home.

Additional Tips:
Read 5 Different Decorating Theme Ideas for a Blue Bathroom for help in deciding how to decorate your powder room.

Search for other great AssociatedContent.com articles about the Do's and Don'ts of Decorating With Blue in Interior Design.

(1) Reference:
How Colors May Affect Your Productivity and Success