10 Colors That Go With Light Blue, According to Designers
Ever walked into a room and felt instantly calmer, only to realize it was painted light blue? That’s no coincidence. Light blue is a soothing, relaxing color that has been shown to improve focus and productivity. It can also reduce blood pressure—and, in today’s world, who wouldn’t benefit from that? Plus, blue hues are versatile, so they’re perfect for everything from the powder room to the primary suite.
The tricky part can be finding the right colors to match. Light blue can be coastal without being kitschy, modern without feeling cold, and traditional without a hint of stuffiness. Yet many of us hesitate at the threshold of possibility. Should you go bold with contrasting yellows and oranges? Lean into an analogous color scheme with greens and purples? Or perhaps anchor it with earthy neutrals? The options are endless, which is precisely what makes light blue both a designer’s dream and occasionally their delightful dilemma.
We're here to help. Below, we’ve combed through the ELLE DECOR archives for designer-approved colors that go with light blue.
Red
In the living room of Amy Fine Collins's family getaway, a powder blue wall complements red Louis XVI chairs that surround a 1940s table from Sutter Antiques. Unexpected red, mastered. The floral upholstery ties the palette together, while the rustic stone fireplace grounds the vibrant interplay.
Gold Accents
Gold accents and light blue are a match made in design heaven. This kitchen, designed by Beth Diana Smith, balances soft, airy light blue cabinetry with warm metallic hardware and wood tones, while a patterned floor and vintage rug add personality and charm. Functional, fabulous, and full of character!
Terracotta
Terracotta meets tranquility in this dining space by Reath Design. Here, the interplay of warm and cool tones creates a layered, inviting atmosphere, while vintage accents add timeless charm.
Orange
This coastal-inspired living room in a Hampton’s beach house pairs light blue walls with pops of vibrant orange, proving opposites really do attract. The warm citrus tones energize the blue backdrop, creating a space that’s both refreshing and dynamic.
Dark Green
Glamour and personality abound in this charming Victorian home, designed by Tommy Smythe. Jewel-toned greens and reds pop against blue walls for a maximalist masterpiece.
Purple
Purple reigns supreme in this light blue wonderland designed by Ben Pentreath. The bold, cosmic artwork and rich velvet chairs add depth and drama, while the blue wallpaper keeps the mood playful yet sophisticated.
Brown
In this dreamy powder room designed by Sheila Bridges, light blue sets the stage for a whimsical, aviary-inspired wallpaper with pops of brown, and we can’t get enough.
Mint Green
This bathroom by Reath Design, pairs light blue accents with mint green walls, a green checkered floor, and a cheerful yellow clawfoot tub. Proof that bold color combinations can still feel refreshingly calm.
Yellow
Light teal upholstery anchors this living room, designed by Rafael de Càrdenas, with a soothing focal point, while mustard-yellow chairs add a sunny pop of energy. The natural wood tones and soft pink accents keep the palette grounded and effortlessly chic.
Pink
This bedroom, designed by Tommy Smythe, layers light blue tones with a whimsical floral wallpaper. The coral and blush accents add just the right touch of warmth.
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