Pale blues
Cool as you like, these blues are all about tranquility and relaxation.

And so to bed…
Blues fall at the cool end of the colour spectrum, creating a feeling of calm and tranquility which makes them ideal in the bedroom.

However, to avoid the chilly side of blue, introduce warm highlights with pillows, throws or bed linen in vibrant shades of fuchsia and plum. Alternatively, use pale blues as an accent colour. Here, a fresh white nursery looks less clinical with toy boxes in a range of beautiful blues.

Cool customer
Combine duck egg blue with clotted creams and beiges for a sophisticated style that takes its inspiration from the Shakers. And to stay true to the look, go for natural wood on the floor. Alternatively, if you want to raise the temperature a degree or two, choose a blue that has a little more violet in it. Ideal for bathrooms or on a feature wall where you need to introduce a splash of colour.

Electric blues
To inject energy, zing and zest, you can’t beat a neat shot of electric blue.

Not for wimps
Deep and intense, cobalt blue should come with a health warning: to be used only in small doses. This is not one for the sitting room walls. Instead, use a single piece of furniture or some striking accessories to make a style statement. Combine textures – matt plastic, luminous glass and glazed pottery – to enhance the effect. And keep the rest of the scheme low-key and neutral. Electric blue is the star here – don’t fight it.

Cook up a storm
If you’ve done wooden and white, now might be the time to invest in a colourful kitchen. Bright blues are stimulating – just the thing to boost those creative juices – but accessorise with chrome and brushed steel to keep things grown-up. Go down the multi-coloured route and it may feel like you’re making tea in a toy box! As for walls and floors, practicality is key, so make sure they’re easy to clean. Then it’s neutral all the way.

Pictures: getty images