Blue kitchens are having a major moment right now. This calming, adaptable color can create a relaxed yet vibrant look in any style of kitchen. From bright and bold to soothing pastels, blue makes a stylish statement. Let’s explore some of the coolest ways to bring blue hues into your kitchen design.
Why Choose Blue?
Blue is an extremely versatile color that can be adapted to fit any style. Here are some of the reasons blue is a fantastic choice for kitchens:
- Calming – Blue evokes feelings of tranquility and relaxation. It’s perfect for creating a peaceful space to cook and dine. Lighter blues are especially soothing.
- Timeless – Blue is a classic color that has remained popular for decades. Unlike bolder trends that come and go, blue has staying power.
- Adaptable – With so many shades on the blue color wheel from navy to aqua, the options are endless. Find a hue that complements your design aesthetic.
- Appetizing – There’s a reason blue plates and drinkware are common. The cool tone is said to make food more appetizing.
- Natural – Blue calls to mind serene skies and oceans. Using blue in your kitchen creates a refreshing, nature-inspired environment.
So if you’re looking to give your kitchen a stylish yet relaxing vibe, blue is likely the perfect choice.
Stylish Blue Kitchen Color Combinations
One of the best things about blue is that it pairs beautifully with many other colors. This allows you to customize your blue kitchen in unique ways. Here are some recommended color combinations:
Blue and White
Crisp, classic, and nautical inspired. The ever-popular blue and white pairing looks fantastic in kitchens. Try pairing a soft powder blue on the upper cabinets with bright white lowers and trim. Or go for a bold navy blue on the lower cabinets with snowy white uppers.
White not only balances out the blue, but makes the space feel open and airy. Add metal accents in chrome or nickel for an upscale look.
Blue and Green
Two colors that call to mind cool water. Blue and green create a refreshing, spa-like environment. For a contemporary look, pair aqua blue cabinets with a sage green island. Or try deep sea blue lowers with mint green uppers.
Distressed blue cabinets also pair beautifully with emerald green walls or backsplashes for a cottage feel. Add natural wood accents for warmth.
Blue and Yellow
This cheerful pairing is reminiscent of sunny skies. It creates a warm, welcoming kitchen. Try cobalt blue island cabinets with lemon yellow on the main cabinetry and walls. Or opt for sky blue uppers with school bus yellow lowers for a playful effect.
A blue and golden yellow combo evokes vintage tins and cans for a retro diner style. Include checkerboard floors or stainless steel accents to complete the look.
Blue and Gray
For a relaxed but sophisticated kitchen, blue and gray can’t be beat. A soft blue-gray on the cabinets is stunning with a lighter gray on the island. Or make a statement with navy cabinets against a weathered charcoal gray island.
Stainless steel, marble, and wood add nicely to this stylish color scheme. The overall look is relaxed refinement.
Blue and Brown
Ground blue hues with earthy browns for a nature-inspired kitchen. Try powder blue uppers with chestnut brown base cabinets and a butcher block island. Or pair navy blue perimeter cabinets with chocolate brown center island.
Rustic wood beams, stone or brick backsplashes, and bronze hardware enhance this organic palette. The result is cozy and inviting.
Styles for Blue Kitchens
Blue works in literally any style of kitchen. But some looks it’s especially suited for include:
Contemporary
For a modern blue kitchen, try brighter shades like aqua, teal, or cobalt. Matte two-tone cabinets in contrasting blues make a sleek statement. Add pops of color with red bar stools or vibrant art. Stainless steel, concrete, or quartz countertops keep it contemporary.
Coastal
Use lighter blues like sky, powder, or duck egg blue to evoke seaside views. Shaker style cabinets and open shelving suit the breezy vibe. Add weathered wood, seashells, and sailboat art. Whitewashed floors keep it beachy.
Farmhouse
Soft robin’s egg blue looks charming on distressed shaker cabinets. Add butcher block counters, an apron front sink, and antique brass hardware. White subway tile and fluttering curtains enhance the cottage feel.
Eclectic
Make a bold blue statement with brightly colored cabinets or an island. Opt for retro or modern styling and mix in funky or glam accents like patterned tile or metallic pendants. The overall effect should be fun and conversational.
Traditional
For a classic approach, try navy blue shaker cabinets for timeless appeal. Or go for lighter French blue on upper cabinets with crisp white lowers. Marble counters, nickel hardware, mosaic backsplash, and pendant lighting keep it timeless.
Best Blue Paint Colors for Kitchens
Ready to choose the perfect blue paint color? Here are some of the most popular blue hues for kitchens:
Navy
A deep, dramatic blue that makes a confident style statement. Pairs nicely with crisp whites.
Try: Sherwin Williams Naval
Powder Blue
A soft, dreamy pastel blue perfect for evoking breezy coastal vibes. Gorgeous on shaker style cabinets.
Try: Benjamin Moore Powder Room
Robin’s Egg Blue
A pale blue-green reminiscent of robin eggs. The quintessential cottage blue for farmhouse kitchens.
Try: Behr Pale Stream
Duck Egg Blue
Slightly deeper than robin’s egg blue with a hint of gray. A refined, versatile hue.
Try: Benjamin Moore Duckling Blue
Periwinkle Blue
A mix between purple and blue with a whimsical, feminine vibe. Looks extra lovely on shiplap walls.
Try: Sherwin Williams Periwinkle
Baby Blue
A sweet, soft blue for a playful, cheery look. Use it on lower cabinets or smaller accents.
Try: Behr Baby Blue Eyes
French Blue
A gray-infused powder blue. Use it on uppers to contrast white lowers for a Parisian vibe.
Try: Valspar French Lilac
Denim Blue
Reminiscent of blue jeans. Use it on an island for a relaxed, all-American look.
Try: Benjamin Moore Winter Lake
Cool Blue Kitchen Island Ideas
The kitchen island is the natural spot to highlight splashy blue cabinetry or paint. Here are some eye-catching ways to incorporate blue on your kitchen island:
- Vibrant cobalt blue shaker cabinets make a contemporary statement
- Distressed denim blue island adds laidback charm
- Glossy French blue base evokes chic Parisian bistros
- Mint blue island framed with driftwood creates beachy contrast
- Navy perimeter with sky blue island center makes you dream of tropical skies
- Stone blue island top pops against white perimeter cabinets
- Robin’s egg blue open shelves provide breezy storage
Painting or staining your island a striking blue shade is an easy DIY upgrade that doesn’t require a full kitchen remodel. It also allows you to experiment with bolder colors.
Best Blue Backsplash Ideas
The backsplash is another prime spot to infuse blue hues. Here are some dazzling blue backsplash ideas:
- Moroccan Fish Scale Tile: This ornate tile style comes in brilliant blues and evokes far-flung locales. Use it as an accent behind the stove.
- Blue Glass Subway Tile: A deep cobalt glass subway tile backsplash provides a contemporary pop of color.
- Blue Arabic Mosaic Tile: Intricate mosaic tiles in shades like lapis, turquoise, or aqua make a visually striking statement.
- Handpainted Moroccan Zellige: Vibrant blue and white handpainted tiles in geometric patterns look exotic and artistic.
- Blue Herringbone Pattern: Simple yet sophisticated. A blue herringbone backsplash adds tailored detail.
- Blue Penny Tiles: Vintage inspired blue penny tiles offer an antique feel with plenty of charm.
- Blue Shell Tile: Realistic looking blue shell tiles bring organic coastal flair even miles from the beach.
- Blue Bubble Glass Tile: Light-catching blue bubble glass tile injects whimsical shimmer.
Fabulous Blue Kitchen Cabinet Ideas
While a fresh coat of blue paint can quickly transform cabinets, going for blue kitchen cabinetry makes even more of an impact. Here are some eye-catching options:
Two-Tone Blue Cabinets
Try combining deeper and lighter blues on upper and lower cabinets for stylish contrast. Or use opposing hues like aqua uppers and navy lowers. Crisp white trim ties the look together.
Navy Blue Cabinets
Make a dramatic statement with glossy navy cabinets against bright white walls and counters. Brass hardware and light wood floors temper the bold navy hue.
Soft Blue Shaker Cabinets
Powder blue cabinets with a distressed shaker style are the essence of cottage charm. Pair with butcher block counters and antique bronze hardware.
Retro Aqua Kitchen Cabinets
For fun retro flair, go for glossy diner-style aqua cabinets. Chrome hardware and checkerboard floors enhance the vintage vibe.
Blue Glass Front Cabinets
Glass front upper cabinets reveal pretty dishes and glassware. The transparent quality maintains an airy vibe.
Navy Butler’s Pantry
Use lush navy blue in a butler’s pantry or private bar area. The dramatic color hides messes and spills.
Best Flooring Options for Blue Kitchens
The flooring should complement your blue palette while standing up to spills, stains, and heavy foot traffic. Here are some great flooring options for blue kitchens:
- White Oak Wood Flooring – A natural light wood balances blue tones with warmth. Distressing adds cottage charm.
- Gray Wood Plank Flooring – For a beach house vibe, weathered gray wood suits blue color schemes.
- Marble Tile – Elegant white or gray marble flooring provides upscale contrast to blue.
- Slate Tile – In hues like blue-gray, slate tile floors reinforce the cool color scheme.
- Herringbone Pattern Tile – A white, gray, or wood-look blue herringbone tile floor instills tailored refinement.
- Checkerboard Tile – For a retro diner feel, opt for a blue and white checkerboard tile floor.
- Bamboo Flooring – Sustainable bamboo floors come in various blue-gray stained hues.
- Concrete Flooring – Poured concrete floors may be tinted blue for an edgy, urban look.
Best Countertop Options for Blue Kitchens
Kitchen countertops should complement the blue color scheme while offering functionality:
- White Marble – Elegant white marble with gray veining suits almost any style. Avoid highly polished marble, which stains easily.
- Soapstone – Gray-blue soapstone has a luxurious look and keeps cool naturally. It develops a patina over time.
- Quartz – Engineered quartz comes in numerous blue-gray swirls. It’s durable and virtually maintenance free.
- Butcher Block – Wood butcher block offers a warm contrast to cool blue. Opt for maple or walnut tones. Requires regular sealing.
- Laminate – Affordable laminate comes in every color, including blue hues and patterns. It resists scratches, stains, and heat.
- Concrete – Custom concrete counters may incorporate blue glass aggregates or pigments for a bespoke look.
- Stainless Steel – For an industrial vibe, stainless steel counters reflect the light and complement blue.
Best Appliances for Blue Kitchens
Don’t forget about coordinating your appliances with your blue kitchen design:
- Stainless Steel – Brushed stainless steel fridges, gas ranges, and dishwashers match any style.
- Matte Black – Fingerprint-proof matte black appliances look slick and contemporary.
- Retro Styles – For a vintage diner theme, search for retro-styled appliances in aqua or chrome.
- Farmhouse Styles – Washing machine style fridges and ranges suit farmhouse kitchens. Opt for a distressed blue hue.
- Panel Ready – Customize the look by adding cabinet front panels to your appliances. Choose blue tones to blend.
Lighting Ideas for Blue Kitchens
From pendants to under cabinet, select lighting that enhances your blue kitchen:
- Glass Pendant Lights – Transparent glass pendants maintain visibility and brightness.
- Blue Glass Pendants – Tinted blue glass pendants cast a cool, sea-inspired glow.
- Nautical Rope Pendants – Woven rope and jute pendants evoke breezy maritime style.
- Bronze/Brass – Warm metallic light fixtures provide cozy contrast to blue hues.
- Copper – Also reddish like bronze, copper pendants attract the eye over blue cabinetry.
- Maritime Lanterns – Use ceramic wire cage lanterns for a nautical vibe.
- Track Lighting – Flexible track lights illuminate while leaving walls and ceilings open.
- Under Cabinet Lights – Blue LED strips or xenon lights provide task lighting sans glare.
Accessorizing Blue Kitchens
Finish your blue kitchen with the perfect accessories:
- White Dishes – Bright white dishware pops against blue cabinets and visually expands smaller kitchens.
- Blue & White Dinnerware– For fun, mix and match blue patterned plates and mugs with solids.
- Warm Metals – Bronze, copper, and gold accessories warm up cool blue tones.
- Marble & Travertine – Elegant marble, travertine, and stone objects complement blue’s vibrancy.
- Natural Textures – Wood boards, seagrass baskets, and ceramic canisters benefit blue kitchens.
- Nautical Accessories – Incorporate shells, starfish,driftwood, and rope accents for a beachy theme.
- Fruit Decor – Ceramic and wood bowls brimming with lemons, limes, oranges, and apples energize all-blue rooms.
- Botanical Prints & Plants – Leafy botanical art and potted herbs provide fresh contrast.
10 Inspiring Blue Kitchens
To spur your creativity, here are 10 gorgeous kitchens featuring blue in inspiring ways:
1. Cobalt Glass Backsplash
A kitchen by Studio DB pairs a vibrant cobalt and red glass tile backsplash with sleek cabinets and stainless steel. The bold blue backsplash steals the show.
2. Retro Aqua Kitchen
Reminiscent of mid century diners, this retro blue kitchen features glossy aqua cabinets and a checkerboard floor. The look is fun and lively.
3. Powder Blue Farmhouse
Soft powder blue shaker cabinets give this farmhouse kitchen welcoming charm. Butcher block counters and antique brass hardware reinforce the cozy feel.
4. Blue Kitchen Island
The blue island is a focal point of this transitional kitchen by deVOL Kitchens, contrasting light wood cabinetry and marble counters.
5. Coastal Blue Kitchen
Beachy hues of white, blue, and green give this kitchen designed by deVOL a tranquil, oceanfront vibe even far from the shore.
6. Navy Glass Front Cabinets
In this kitchen by Roman and Williams, deep navy glass front upper cabinets provide striking contrast to the stainless steel and marble.
7. Moroccan Fish Scale Tile Backsplash
An ornate handmade fish scale tile in vivid blue infuses this simple kitchen with an exotic Moroccan flair.
8. Blue Glass Subway Tile Backsplash
A moody dark blue glass subway tile backsplash adds a bold pop of color in this modern kitchen by Studio DB.
9. Robin’s Egg Blue Island
The soft robin’s egg blue island in this cheery transitional kitchen reinforces the bright and airy charm. White perimeter cabinetry prevents overpowering blue.
10. Sophisticated Blue Kitchen
Benjamin Moore Hale Navy perimeter cabinets and an island in Sherwin Williams Raindance create a refined contemporary look in this kitchen by Studio McGee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular shades of blue for kitchens?
The most popular shades include navy, powder blue, robin’s egg blue, duck egg blue, and lighter tones like sky blue. Blue with gray undertones are also common.
What color cabinets go well with a blue kitchen?
White, gray, brown, yellow, green, black, and even contrasting blue cabinet colors pair attractively with different blue hues.
What kind of floors look best with a blue kitchen?
Light natural wood, weathered gray wood, concrete, tile that incorporates blue, white marble, and slate all coordinate well with blue kitchens.
What is the best backsplash color for a navy blue kitchen?
White or light gray backsplashes pop nicely against dark navy cabinets. Stainless steel and natural stone like marble are also great backsplash options.
What is the most popular shade of blue for kitchen cabinets?
Navy blue is the most popular cabinet color, followed by softer hues like powder blue and robin’s egg blue. Crisp white trim helps blue cabinets really stand out.
