Whether it's a complete redecoration or just a quick refresh, cobalt blue brings personality to any space through finishes or furnishings. Paired with natural materials, it creates a calm and inviting atmosphere. Contrasted with other colours, it can create a dramatic, contemporary flair.
How can cobalt blue be incorporated into interior design? The possibilities are endless, from an overall look to cobalt blue walls or smaller accents and blue furniture. What follows is an exploration of the potential of this fascinating colour - from its history to its latest interpretations - to create unique and personalised cobalt blue interiors.
Cobalt blue rooms, an oasis of calm
Cobalt blue evokes a sense of depth and serenity. In chromotherapy, the study of the effects of colour on the mind and body, it is believed to reduce stress while promoting focus and relaxation. Designers often use cobalt blue in spaces for rest and relaxation, such as bedrooms and spas, where its calming effect promotes physical and mental well-being.
How Cobalt Blue was born
Cobalt blue pigment was first synthesised in 1802 as a more affordable and accessible alternative to Afghan ultramarine; its stable formula and quick drying time soon made it a favourite in the world of art and interior design.
Renoir and Van Gogh loved cobalt blue. However, the French artist Yves Klein made the colour iconic in his striking monochrome works from the 1950s onwards. He patented the colour IKB - International Klein Blue. His work is so distinctive that it has become a source of inspiration for interior designers. Indeed, Ressource has launched the Yves Klein® paint, a matte textured paint for a deep, material effect.
Blue degradé walls, between maximalism and radical design
A timeless colour that transcends trends, cobalt blue is the ideal choice for renovating a period space without affecting the original structure. Uchronia studio redesigned a typical Haussmann apartment in Paris, where blue creates a degradé envelope in the living area. The interior design is a mixture of references ranging from maximalism to radical design and craft. The soft blue fades from floor to ceiling, creating a serene backdrop for the large Edra sofa in the centre of the room, upholstered in the same shade.
An all-blue bedroom
Blue is known for its calming effect, relieving tension and even regulating the heartbeat, making it a popular choice for restorative spaces. Architect Piertzovanis Toews applied the principles of colour psychology to create different colour blocks for a barn-conversion apartment: energetic red for the entrance, stimulating and regenerating green for the kitchen, and an all-blue bedroom. Blue lacquered wood is used for the panelling, ceiling and wardrobe with an integrated bed. The wood grain adds a texture reminiscent of the gentle movement of ocean waves.
Cobalt blue floors
Using cobalt blue on the floor can be a bold choice to define space without touching the walls. Its iridescent and dynamic texture is reminiscent of diving into the deep blue sea.
Speaking of the sea, how could we not mention 'Aqua. A design exploration', the Archiproducts Milano project by Studiopepe? Located in Via Tortona 31, the installation explores water and its vital role through the play of light, reflections and colour vibrations. Among the infinite shades, Forbo sustainable linoleum floors and Red Edition Alcantara furniture in cobalt blue create an evocative atmosphere that explores the dynamism of water.
Rethinking the Home through Blue
Blue in all its shades - dark or light, cold or warm - is suitable for any room in the home. In the Inama 20 apartment in Milan, designed by chromastudio, a cobalt blue arched corridor/tunnel connects all the rooms. The bold blue continues into the kitchen, spreading across the floor and flowing into the central island, while in the bedrooms, the colour is softened for a more tranquil effect.
Geometry and blue patterns on the walls
In homes with multiple levels, niches or irregular walls, a combination of white and blue can highlight the structure, creating contrasting geometries and patterns that create unusual games of perspective. In a kaleidoscopic London home, the staircase alternates all-white panels with Majorelle blue walls, a colour often used in Moroccan architecture. Drawing inspiration from traditional Marrakech interiors, the space juxtaposes blue, pink and green walls with wood furniture and soft textiles.
Separating rooms with a dramatic curtain
A fabric room divider is a practical solution in compact homes requiring adaptable spaces. A cobalt blue room divider can give rooms a theatrical feel, as seen in this 65-square-metre apartment in Kyiv, where dynamic cobalt blue curtains transform the living area into a work-from-home space in just a few steps.
Blue detail: metaphysical or industrial?
For more traditional interiors, adding a cobalt blue detail can subtly introduce colour. In two Roman houses, blue becomes a bridge between two rooms. In La Macchina Studio's Retroscena project, a striking blue arched door with a metaphysical aura separates the bedroom from the living room, enhancing privacy.
In 02A Studio's Casa Buondelmonti, cobalt blue beams add an industrial edge and connect the kitchen to the living room.
An all-blue room
If this article has left you dreaming of an all-blue room, resin could be the perfect material. Suitable for floors, walls and ceilings, it creates a seamless, immersive environment ideal for relaxation and contemplation. In a Rome apartment by Studio Tamat, blue resin boldly covers every surface.
Cobalt blue furniture
For those reluctant to go all out, cobalt blue furniture can act as a bold focal point in a room, adding character and creating a mix-and-match effect with finishes and surfaces.
Seletti's Magna Graecia ironic and pop vases and objects can be used as playful statement pieces in different parts of the room or grouped to enhance a corner of the home.
For lovers of 1960s design, Flos presents the famous Snoopy lamp by the Castiglioni brothers in a brand new blue edition.
To choose a few pieces of furniture with a striking presence, the Serpentine sofa by DANTE - Goods and Bads and the Pulpo table feature deep blue tones and curved, wave-like shapes.
For a cohesive look, Marco Ripa's Coimbra collection offers consoles, totems and storage pieces in industrial-inspired aluminium in a vibrant blue.
For a contemplative atmosphere, Jaipur Rugs' CHAAND SITARA rug evokes the night sky, complete with moon, stars and landscapes, inspired by paintings by Indian designer Ashiesh Shah.