Blue in the bedroom can get romance brewing.
Reds and pinks are traditionally considered the romantic colors, but with the right design, cool blue hues can bring just as much passion into the bedroom. Select a romantic locale that works with blue to inspire a cohesive design scheme. Remember that good design is more suggestive and less literal, so avoid overfilling the space with theme-inspired tchotchkes.
Island Retreat
The ever-changing shades of ocean blues evoke memories of those long walks on the beach while waves crash. Whether selecting a nautical blue reminiscent of the Atlantic or a tropical blue inspired by waters along the Tropic of Cancer, walls the color of water are both relaxing and romantic. Prevent the vibrant blue on the walls from overwhelming the space by opting for the kind of light, white linens used in humid, exotic locations to keep cool. Anchor the abundance of light and bright fabrics and wall color with dark, almost black wood furniture with slender lines, such as pieces with taper or spindle legs.
Cozy Cabin
Rekindle a romance in a bedroom interior inspired by a winter cuddle in a cozy, snowed-in cabin. Begin with a pale, icy blue reminiscent of snowy winters on the walls. Capture the theme by purchasing rustic furniture constructed of rough-hewn boards or logs as a statement piece. However, forgo the full bedroom set in this style, as it quickly overwhelms and becomes kitsch. Instead, opt for either a log bed paired with simple, smooth plank end tables or a rustic dresser with a wrought iron bedstead. To keep the cabin theme subtle, frame blue quilt samplers as artwork rather than spreading a full country-cabin quilt on the bed. Instead, use a blue comforter embellished with a hint of old-fashioned lace to give the rustic room a feminine touch.
Arabian Midnights
Delve into the perfumed intrigue and romantic mystery of Middle Eastern fairy tales found in "The Thousand and One Nights." Paint midnight blue on the walls as an anchor for the vivid hues of Persian, Middle Eastern and South Asian design. Subtlety is the key word to remember when taking inspiration from an Arabian Nights theme, as it's easy to go overboard with the design style's intricately carved woodwork and opulent silks and velvets. Ornate bedsteads need solid-color bedding in rich red or brilliant gold, while simpler headboards better complement colorful patchwork quilts. Avoid cluttering the room with lots of little Arabian-themed accessories and opt instead for a larger statement piece, such as a mirror framed with blue-and-silver-tile mosaic.
Tags: blue reminiscent, blue walls, Middle Eastern, statement piece