Choosing the right color for a bedroom can be tricky. The color you select sets the overall mood and ambiance of the space, so you’ll want to choose wisely. Royal blue is a rich, vibrant shade that may seem like an unexpected choice for a restful bedroom. However, it can actually work quite well if done right.
The Psychology of Royal Blue
Before deciding if royal blue is a good option for your bedroom, it helps to understand the psychology behind this regal hue. Royal blue is a deep, jewel-toned shade of azure that has long been associated with nobility, prestige, and luxury. This sophisticated color elicits feelings of trust, confidence, and stability. It has a calming, peaceful effect on the mind and body.
Royal blue is also thought to spark creativity and productivity as it encourages open communication and clear thinking. This makes it an excellent color for home offices, studies, or other spaces where you want to concentrate. The rich pigment is mentally stimulating while also being cooling and serene.
Benefits of Royal Blue for Bedrooms
Given its relaxing yet mentally clarifying properties, royal blue can work well for bedrooms in several ways:
- Promotes restful sleep – The soothing nature of royal blue encourages relaxation and sleep.
- Inspires productivity – The intellectually stimulating aspect can help you feel focused and motivated if you work or study in your bedroom.
- Adds depth – Royal blue makes spaces feel larger and airier which opens up smaller bedrooms.
- Feels cozy – Despite being cool in tone, royal blue has a comforting, welcoming vibe.
- Provides contrast – The bold shade stands out nicely against white or neutral bedroom colors.
The rich pigment is mentally stimulating while also being cooling and serene. This combination allows it to both energize and unwind – exactly what you want in a versatile bedroom.
Tips for Using Royal Blue in a Bedroom
While royal blue can be perfect for bedrooms, there are some important guidelines to follow so that the space doesn’t end up feeling too intense:
- Use it sparingly – Large swaths of bold royal blue can be overpowering. Instead, opt for one accent wall or paint architectural details.
- Soften it with neutrals – Balance the strong tone with plenty of neutral whites, grays, tans, and other quiet hues.
- Layer lighter blues – Accent with softer sky blues and baby blues for a more soothing, airy vibe.
- Mix in metallics – Cool metals like silver, steel blue, and chrome create a pretty contrast against rich royal blue.
- Add warmth with wood – Warm wooden furniture and accent pieces give a cozier feel.
- Use textured linens – Rough linens, layered rugs, sheer drapes diffuse and soften the powerful color.
With strategic accents of royal blue and plenty of neutrals, you can craft a perfectly balanced bedroom that is both energetic and peaceful. The powerful color is best tempered with lots of white – on the walls, bedding, window treatments, and accessories. Then layer in some wooden furniture for warmth along with touches of metallics or soft powder blue for a relaxing royal blue bedroom with just the right vibe.
How Much Royal Blue to Use
When using royal blue in a bedroom, the general rule of thumb is less is more. Here are some recommended ways to incorporate just the right amount:
- Paint one accent wall royal blue behind the bed or in a reading nook.
- Use royal blue on the ceiling – this undisruptive spot still lets you enjoy the color.
- Paint architectural details like moldings, doors, and built ins in royal blue punches.
- Upholster the headboard in rich royal blue velvet or linen.
- Hang full-length royal blue drapes for a luxe focal point.
- Bring in royal blue pillows, throws, rug, and accessories for pops of color.
When using multiple royal blue accents, make sure they are well-spaced around the room. The color works best when used thoughtfully so the eye appreciates each touch of vivid color against the neutral backdrop.
What Colors Go Well with Royal Blue?
The bold intensity of royal blue looks best balanced with plenty of neutral, light, and subtle colors. Here are some top color pairings to consider:
- Cream – A creamy off-white has a softening effect and keeps the space feeling bright and airy.
- White – Crisp white walls and bedding offset the drama of royal blue perfectly.
- Light gray – Subtle, hazy grays create an elegant mood with royal blue.
- Tan – Earthy neutrals like tan and beige complement the vibrancy nicely.
- Navy – A rich navy blue accentuates the jewel-tone intensity.
- Charcoal – Deeper shades like charcoal gray add sophistication.
- Silver – Cool metallics contrast elegantly with royal blue’s warmth.
- Blush pink – Soft pink provides an unexpected but pretty pairing.
Keep accessories, furnishings, and decor items in these neutral, metallic, or subtly colorful shades. Then use solid blocks of rich royal blue fabric or paint to really make the color pop dramatically.
Royal Blue Bedroom Ideas
Here are some inspiring ways to stylishly incorporate royal blue into bedroom design:
- Paint the ceiling royal blue for an unexpected pop of color overhead.
- Upholster the headboard in royal blue velvet for luxurious drama.
- Hang bold floor-length royal blue drapes to frame the bed.
- Add a vibrant royal blue rug layered over hardwood floors.
- Use a darker royal blue on the walls in a cozy reading nook.
- Paint a bold royal blue stripe on the accent wall behind the bed.
- Choose a duvet cover in classic Chinoiserie blue and white.
- Select a vibrant ikat or indigo print fabric for pillows and throws.
- Paint the interior of built-in bookshelves or display cases royal blue.
- Opt for a dramatic blue and white graphic wallpaper as an accent.
With plenty of creams, whites, and other quiet neutrals alongside, these stylish uses of royal blue create bedrooms with peaceful presence.
Royal Blue for Master Bedrooms
For a master suite, royal blue is an excellent way to add drama and luxury when used correctly. Here are some tips for making it work in a master bedroom:
- Paint the ceiling royal blue for a subtle yet striking use of color.
- Upholster the headboard in royal blue velvet against a navy accent wall.
- Choose a vibrant indigo ikat duvet cover paired with crisp white sheets.
- Hang long, full-length royal blue drapes for an elegant window treatment.
- Incorporate touches of gleaming chrome and silver accents for modern glam.
- Layer a thick royal blue rug over hardwood floors to define the space.
- Add mirrored nightstands and chrome lamps forlight and sparkle.
This sophisticated color palette exudes rest and relaxation with its cooling blue tones while also feeling luxe and quietly confident. The bold royal blue accents make a stylish statement against spa-like whites and creams.
Small Bedroom Ideas with Royal Blue
For a small bedroom, royal blue may seem like an overwhelming choice. But by following some guidelines, you can use this bold shade even in a tiny space:
- Paint just one accent wall in glossy royal blue lacquer.
- Stick to lighter tints of royal blue for bedding and upholstery.
- Choose a printed royal blue and white duvet or shams instead of solid colors.
- Hang narrow vertical drapes in a royal blue print or ikat pattern.
- Layer a sisal rug with a furry royal blue throw instead of one heavy rug.
- Include airy metallic accents like a silver mirror or glass lamp.
The goal is to break up the royal blue into smaller doses so no area looks or feels too intense. Lighter tints and patterns keep things airy while freestanding accents like lamps or wall art are impactful but don’t overwhelm the compact space.
Feng Shui with Royal Blue
In Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese practice of placement to achieve harmony with your space, royal blue has several significant meanings. It symbolizes power, nobility, dignity, and reliability. Royal blue inspires confidence and strength when used in key Feng Shui areas of the home. Here are some ways to incorporate it:
- Front door – Paint your front door royal blue to welcome prosperity and positive chi.
- Northwest – Add royal blue touches like pillows or art in the helpful “mentor” corner.
- Southeast – Use royal blue in the “love and marriage” sector of your home.
- Bedroom – Display royal blue in your bedroom to inspire fidelity in relationships.
Use royal blue fabrics, accessories, and artwork in these locations to stimulate harmonious energy flow. Just be sure not to overdo it – striking the right balance is key in Feng Shui design.
Conclusion
With its mentally stimulating yet coolly soothing properties, royal blue makes for an unexpected yet practical bedroom color. The regal richness pairs elegantly with crisp whites and warm woods to create a space that’s both relaxing and quietly energizing. Just use it sparingly in bold pops of color against plenty of neutral brights. With the right balance, a touch of drama, and creative decor choices, royal blue can be the perfect way to add some luxurious color and inspiring vibrance to your bedroom retreat.