Bringing a fresh, cool feel to the kitchen.
You know that feeling when you’re sitting by the sea on a warm, breezy afternoon? The way the sky stretches out endlessly, soft, light, comforting, and everything slows down for a moment? That’s exactly what Coastal Blue brings into your home.
This isn’t a bright, punchy blue or a deep nautical navy. This is the shade of salt-kissed air, misty sea mornings, and hazy skies just before the sun appears. It’s calming without being cold, subtle but full of character. It’s the kind of blue that quietly says, “You can relax now.” And that’s precisely why it’s June’s Colour of the Month.
Whether you live by the coast or are happily landlocked, there’s something transportive about Coastal Blue. Let’s explore why this serene shade deserves a place in your kitchen, and how to use it in a way that feels timeless, elegant, and just a little bit dreamy.
What is Coastal Blue?
Coastal Blue is a breezy, uplifting mid-toned blue with a grey edge that softens the usual punch of cooler hues. It brings a sense of ease and openness to a space without shouting for attention.
It’s versatile, too. Coastal Blue works with warm tones like brushed brass or pale wood, but it can also handle contrast—think deep inky blues, crisp whites, or even earthy greens if you’re feeling bold. On cabinetry, it’s sophisticated but unfussy. On walls, it’s light-diffusing and atmospheric. It’s the perfect middle ground: strong enough to make an impact, gentle enough to live with every day.
The Psychological Power of Blue
Blue is one of the most loved colours across cultures—and for good reason. Psychologically, it’s linked with calm, clarity, and trust. Coastal Blue, with its soft, sky-like undertone, taps into all those associations while avoiding the chillier effects of more saturated blues.
In the kitchen, where you’re often multitasking, hosting, or just looking for a peaceful morning coffee moment, this colour can quietly shift the mood. It’s been said that softer blues like this can:
- Lower heart rate and reduce stress
- Encourage clearer thinking and focus
- Create a feeling of spaciousness and openness
- Bring a sense of freshness and cleanliness
In short, Coastal Blue is as good for your brain as it is for your Pinterest board.
Lighting Matters: Creating a Sunny Sky Feel
Here’s where the magic happens. The right lighting can make your Coastal Blue kitchen feel like it’s basking in seaside sunshine—even if the British summer is being particularly British.
Warm under-cabinet lighting will bring out the softness of the blue and add a golden glow, like the sun breaking through coastal clouds. If you have natural light, even better—it’ll bounce gently around the space, giving your kitchen an open, airy quality. Think light oak floors, pale quartz worktops with subtle veining, and antique brass fittings that glow under the light.
It’s also a great background for layering. A few woven textures, ceramic vases, a striped tea towel casually draped over the sink—it all adds to that breezy, beachy feeling. You don’t need to go full seaside theme (unless you want to!). The colour does the hard work for you.
How to Style Coastal Blue
If you’re introducing Coastal Blue into your kitchen, it’s worth thinking about the overall balance of your materials. Here’s what pairs beautifully:
- Worktops: Creamy white quartz with subtle grey or warm gold veining
- Handles: Brushed brass or aged bronze for warmth
- Walls: Pale neutrals like soft ivory, greige, or even a warm putty tone
- Flooring: Light, natural wood or limestone for a fresh, beachy vibe
- Accessories: Linen napkins, pale ceramics, a sprig of olive or eucalyptus
This colour also works beautifully for painted furniture pieces. A larder cupboard in Coastal Blue? Perfection. Or just the island, paired with natural cabinetry elsewhere, if you’re not ready to commit fully.
Where to Use Coastal Blue in the Kitchen
- Cabinetry
It looks especially beautiful on simple, flat doors or a modern shaker style. Coastal Blue adds just enough colour to feel interesting, but still neutral enough to live with.
- Walls or Splashbacks
If you’re going all-in with neutral cabinetry, a soft blue wall or splashback tile can give the room depth without overpowering it.
- Pantry or Utility Areas
Tucked-away spaces like pantries or utility rooms are great little testing grounds for colour. Coastal Blue here can make the everyday feel lovely.
- Furniture
A freestanding dresser or breakfast bench painted in this hue adds a gentle pop without breaking up the room’s palette.
My Favourite Coastal Blue Things
Here’s my little sea-salty roundup of favourite blues in this beautiful breezy zone:
- Farrow & Ball’s “Kittiwake”: Calm, elegant, with a whisper of grey—like a cloud-dappled sea.
- Little Greene’s “Bone China Blue Mid”: A slightly cooler blue that still feels soft and liveable.
- Oliver Bonas Amine Blue Gin Glasses Set of Four: Gorgeous, blue tinted, goblet-style glasses that are dinner-party ready.
- A morning sky over Norfolk’s coast: (Okay, not something you can decorate with, but inspiring nonetheless.)
In Summary
Coastal Blue brings a breath of fresh air into your kitchen—literally and emotionally. It’s gentle but expressive, calm but never bland. With the right materials and lighting, it evokes everything we love about summer: softness, serenity, a sense of space, and a glimmer of sunshine through the clouds.
So whether you’re dreaming of ocean views or just craving a bit of stillness in the everyday, let this soft, misty blue bring the outside in. And don’t forget to light a sea breeze candle while you’re at it.