Even though it’s a colour more often associated with fashion and flags of the world rather than interiors, colour consultant Samantha Bacon thinks navy blue is a versatile shade that makes a strong statement in a modern country-style home.
Navy blue conjures up images of dependable business people in conservative suits. It’s a hue of certainty and restraint and isn’t usually the first colour that springs to mind for interior decorating. The colour symbolism of steadfast reliability, however, need not translate into boring interiors as navy blue provides a stunning backdrop for frosty arctic white, bold red and cool silver. A yellow, on the cusp of green, is its true complementary colour and this yellow is the basis for cool mustard and rich olive hues which both make great accent colours for navy blue. Navy is also an absolute must for a nautical theme and fl ags are very trendy at the moment with the Union Jack and the Stars and Stripes emblazoned on homewares everywhere.
Cool, crisp white is the best foil for solid navy blue. Try using this on interior trim such as architraves, skirting boards, picture rails and ceilings – with dark navy blue on the walls to provide a stunning rich decorating scheme which is a softer alternative to black and white. Blue and white striped wallpaper is also a perennial favourite and works equally well for bedrooms for both adults and children. Navy is a cool colour and, although not among the coolest of blues, it’s nonetheless a hue that should be confined to north and west facing rooms if it’s to bea major part of a colour palette. Whites to partner this should be clean and fresh so, again, these don’t work well in a south or east facing space.
Navy Trim from Dulux is a classic example that’s a strong and bold colour without too much grey. Dulux Natural White works extremely well with navy. Palace from the Belacol 2 range of wallpapers from Inhabit Wallcoverings is a perfect example of a navy and white design that’s ideal for a country-style look. Th e motifs are delicate and pretty and the lines are organic, making it a great way to use such strong hues. For lovers of checks and stripes, No Chintz stocks some classic cotton designs that work perfectly with this stylish palette.
