When choosing a kitchen color palette, it can often feel like you have to pick one of two extremes: classic and neutral or vibrant and bold – but as Matthew and Camila McConaughey show, you can successfully combine both. Their Austin kitchen is largely a neutral space, featuring unpainted wooden cabinets, marble open shelving, and black countertops.
At first glance, the palette feels safe, stylish, and timeless, yet there is one striking exception: Matthew and Camila McConaughey's blue kitchen island.
Breaking away from the kitchen's otherwise traditional scheme, the McConaugheys introduced a pop of color with this soft, powdery blue island. The hue adds just the right touch of vibrancy to the space without overwhelming it, creating a welcoming atmosphere – perfect for bright spring mornings or cozy winter evenings.
Shop the blue kitchen edit
The Old Havana Mugs are some of Anthropologie's best-selling and top-rated products since their launch in 2012. Artisan crafted in Portugal, each crackle-glazed piece reflects the luminous blue color that we adore. They will make the perfect addition to your coffee mornings (and afternoons).
Reminiscent of charming blue and white ceramic prints, this design is inspired by Indian block prints and works perfectly for coastal or patriotic schemes.
Elegant in shape and bold in color, this large blue Blenko vase is a shining example of the craftsmanship of the long-established glassmakers. Fill it with cheerful buds and place it wherever you see fit, starting with your countertop.
Designers note that this approach can work in kitchens of all sizes, even in smaller layouts.
'Blue kitchen island colors introduce a vibrant focal point in the space, adding character without overwhelming the overall design. Blue shades mix very well with neutral tones like white, grey, and beige, allowing the island to pop without clashing with other elements of the kitchen. The contrast can also help to draw the eye, adding depth and dimension to the layout,' says Molly Chandler, a designer at Willis & Stone.
Tom Howley, creative design director of the eponymous kitchen company, echoes this advice. 'Painting just your island can be a great way to incorporate color into an otherwise neutral kitchen – providing a bold, captivating focal point without committing to a full-on vibrant space. A navy island sits beautifully in a white kitchen,' he says.
'Neutral color palettes in the kitchen will never disappear – but for those who want to add a stronger injection of color, deep navies and cool powder blues are very popular. We recommend pairing these tranquil hues with glossy white worktops for a fresh, airy scheme.'
While Matthew and Camila McConaughey's choice of soft powder blue feels effortlessly serene, Howley notes that even more dramatic shades of blue can make a statement. 'Inky blue hues infuse drama and energy into a space, while the crisp white balances out the scheme.'
Beyond style, blue kitchen islands can also have a calming effect, which is particularly welcome during busy holiday seasons or weekday dinners, and they may even enhance a home's resale value.
'The color blue is often associated with calmness, which, given that kitchens are often busy spaces, can help create a soothing atmosphere,' Chandler explains. 'It is also frequently seen as a universally appealing colour, which may attract future buyers, increasing the perceived value of the kitchen by adding a modern or custom feel without requiring a complete kitchen overhaul.'
Beyond islands, you can introduce touches of blue into your kitchen with carefully selected accessories and statement paint samples – perfect for evoking the crisp freshness of spring or the cozy calm of winter.
