Navy is the New Neutral

When you think of neutral, you might be thinking of tried and true classics like cream and beige colors. Expand your horizon and welcome in a new neutral such as a navy! Continue reading for tips on how to make use of this fresh take on neutral, just in time to give your home an extra 4th of July “blue” bang!

No Nonsense Neutral

Navy is a dark shade of blue that comes in many different tones ranging from a jewel-like royal azure blue to a dusty navy blue with grey undertones. Whatever tone you select, know that navy won’t let you down with its stunning subtlety and versatility. Still not convinced? Did you know that navy is one of the original 12 colors formulated for a standard computer display? Talk about a real classic!

If you’re looking for a way to freshen up your room without swapping out your furniture, a new coat of navy paint will do the trick. Navy paint will pair well with almost anything. Consider adding a splash of color to your neutral or white kitchen by painting cabinets in this dazzling color for a fresh feel! Navy blue will look stunning against dark-stained butcher block counters or stone counters and subway tile backsplashes.

If painting a room isn’t on your agenda, consider introducing a navy blue sofa or navy chair to accent your existing pieces. A navy sofa can be a delightful statement piece in your living room—it brings in something new without clashing against existing furniture. If you have a trusty sofa or loveseat that you’re not ready to part with, consider adding a comfy navy accent chair to your room. You’ll get the benefit of bringing in a new piece of furniture that will instantly freshen up your room but also have the balancing effect that the color navy can bring into a space. This neutral color can even enhance the rich patina of your leather furniture while brightening up light or cream-colored sofas, chairs and rugs.

If you really love navy and want to take it a step further, you could even transition to a full navy-blue living room by combining paint and navy-blue furniture for a wow factor that will leave you and guests alike pleased throughout the year! Don’t worry about the color being overwhelming if you select different variations of navy in your furniture and décor items. By using different shades of the hue, you’ll avoid a matchy-matchy look and pull off the perfect ‘new neutral’ look!

Want to make a small nod to this new neutral favorite? Swap out your tired decor for something exciting like navy blue decor and accent pieces. Toss a few navy blue pillows on your existing set, hang up a few geometric or water inspired prints that show off the power of this neutral, and you’re set! Looking for a fun way to add navy and tie in a new theme? Consider nautical touches, like sand filled hurricane vases with candles, rope framed pictures, striped pillows and a whimsical splash of navy throughout! Navy can be considered a base tone, which means it pairs well with so many color combos. For some fun but stylish color combos try navy and lavender for children’s rooms; navy and white for kitchens; navy, emerald and brown for offices; and navy and greys for a living room or family room.

Nighttime Navy

Doze off with a dose of navy by adding comfy bedding in navy blue to your room. Navy comforters and bedding sets will look great paired with wood bedroom sets or even cloth- covered headboards. This color helps set a calming mood that is reminiscent of a quiet night—perfect for any bedroom. A navy bedroom set for your child is a great way to add a bit of color that is timeless and can be used through the years without going out of style or function. Sleep soundlessly knowing your navy bedroom is on trend and represents true comfort and bliss.

Neutral doesn’t have to mean boring. In fact, it doesn’t even have to mean shades of creamy white or beige. If you’re looking for way to make a statement in your home in a fresh new way, consider the color navy! You can even add a touch of navy outdoors by using navy patio cushions, which will look striking outside with wicker furniture. Swap out your boring old wood dining chairs for a few navy blue upholstered dining chairs, and you’ve instantly glamorized your dining room! No matter how you incorporate navy into your home, you are sure to reap the benefits of this wonderfully versatile color that has the staying power of a neutral while freshening up your home no matter the season.