SCHEME Of THE MONTH Swimming pool blue
Dive on in to summer’s most soothing shade
In our fast-paced, switched-on world, swimming pool blue invites us to slow down and – dare we say it – switch off. Its soothing qualities are exactly why it works wonderfully at home. The shade creates a serene oasis that evokes wide-open expanses of crystal clear water and cloudless skies, enhancing the sense of space.
Given its strong ties with water, swimming pool blue is perfect for a seaside-inspired look. ‘Go for a tonal palette – from pale and watery to deep and strong – then add white for crispness and bring in natural elements like different woods,’ advises Judy Smith, Crown’s colour consultant.
If you’re feeling a shade braver, splash swimming pool blue across walls, woodwork and even furniture for a super-strong statement. Throw transparent materials into the mix – glass and Perspex will break up the scheme without interrupting the colour.
‘Pairing it with transparent materials can also enhance the ethereal feel of the room,’ says Paula Taylor, colour and trend specialist at Graham &
Brown. ‘Think delicate gauzy textiles that will move with the breeze and create the feeling of gentle underwater movement.’
Too blue? A twist of zesty lemon or orange will introduce an element of interest. ‘For a more solid and textural look, choose a deep berry tone,’ suggests Smith. ‘Accents of aqua green can create a mysterious, otherworldy feel,’ adds Taylor.
Walls in swimming pool blue respond brilliantly when bathed in natural sunlight, so it’s an obvious choice for warm, south-facing rooms. ‘However, because this joyful hue really packs a punch, it would also work in cooler, north-facing rooms to enliven an otherwise dark space,’ says David Mottershead, managing director of Little Greene.