Reasons why blue is the hottest colour for 2016

published 19 October 2015

Indigo, cobalt, aquamarine, there are a whole host of different blues that we have adopted throughout our homes. However, next year’s on trend shade is a rich deep blue that is an evolution from this year’s striking colbalt hues. Rich in warm pigmentation, this dark shade is anything but cold and uninviting and works well with the industrial look that is so of the moment right now. Whether you live in a new-build or a period terrace, the shade’s vibrant quality means it’s a great choice for any type of space.

1. It looks great teamed with wood

We love this rich shade of blue because it looks fantastic with warm wood and a few country-style details.

hallway with wooden flooring and indigo blue wall

2. You can be bold and beautiful

What's not to love about a bold shade of blue with a hint of aquamarine? It also proves that a striking artwork or mural can look fantastic against an indigo backdrop...

dining room with painted indigo blue walls

3. It's the new festive hue

Blue can be wonderfully festive. A deep, dark colour feels warm and cocooning - ideal for cold winter nights.

living room with blue walls and fireplace

4. You can layer up to your heart's content

Deep tones of blue look great layered up together. Here dark linen curtains, a painted floor, textured wallpaper and a blue upholstered chair prove that, sometimes, the more the merrier.

living room with blue walls and wooden cupboard

5. It's easy to add drama

The great thing about a striking shade like indigo is that you can add plenty of drama. Here, chunky dark drapes, cobalt-coloured curtains and a few floral cushions add bags of personality.

bedroom with blue walls and four poster bed

6. Wallpaper looks stunning in indigo tones

Embrace indigo wallpaper. This stunning hallway corner proves just how striking blue can be...

room with patterned blue wall and portrait frame

7. It can help liven up a kitchen

Who says kitchens have to be white and souless? Here dark blue walls, a painted island unit and tons of cobalt-themed accessories prove that blue is the colour of the moment.

kitchen room with blue walls and kitchen countertop

8. It looks great teamed with white

Ahh, blue and white - a classic colour combination. Have fun by painting a feature wall in the dark on-trend indigo hue (try Valspar's Precious Sapphire) and hang white shelves with an array of white framed pictures on top. The juxtaposition of the dark and light colours will look fantastic!

9. You can go for multiple colour treatments

Blue looks amazing with several different colour treatments. In this smart dining room it appears above the dado rail, with an ombre effect on the curtains and is present in a swirl design on the glassware. Simply stunning!

dining room with blue walls and table with chairs

10. It's got Industrial-chic

Blue can work well in an industrial scheme too. Here, when it is paired up with white brick walls and glass furniture, it looks the epitome of new-season cool.