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How to Match Burgundy & Blue in a Room

Melinda Gaines

Burgundy is a rich shade of red that can go from formal to trendy, all depending on which colors you pair with it. Because of its dark hue, when you're matching burgundy and blue in a room it is crucial that you choose a suitable shade, otherwise your space could end up looking quite garish. By choosing the right decorative elements, furniture finishes and accent shades you can easily pull together a burgundy and blue color scheme.

Step 1

Pick a shade of blue that looks flattering with burgundy because not all blues complement this bold color. Shades of blue that pair well with burgundy include navy blue, cobalt, periwinkle, aqua and dark cornflower blue. The color you should pick depends on your tastes and the overall look you're going for. If you want a sophisticated, formal look, navy blue would be a suitable choice. For a more chic, modern room, try aqua blue.

Step 2

Select one or two neutral colors, which are known as accent colors, to pull the burgundy and blue room together. Incorporate these shades into your decorative accents, wall paint and window treatments. Most shades of gray, black or white will do, but you should consider the blue you're going to pair with the burgundy. For example, if you choose cobalt and burgundy, a crisp white would be best to keep the room from feeling too heavy and dark. If your color scheme features periwinkle and burgundy, light gray and black would work well as neutral colors.

Step 3

Balance the amount of each color you use in the room to ensure the result doesn't look too dark and heavy. For the best result, ensure that some of your decorative items, such as pillows, vases, and rugs, contain both burgundy and your chosen shade of blue. If you're unsure of just how much of each color to use, you can use the following formula: 50 percent burgundy, 30 percent blue, and 20 percent of your accent color. If you have more than one accent color, use 10 percent of each shade.

Step 4

Use one of your accent colors for your wall paint because that will also help you avoid creating a room that feels overwhelming and dark. The exception is if your accent color happens to be black or dark gray. In this case, choose white as your wall color to keep the room from looking too busy.

Step 5

Get furniture with a finish that matches your color scheme. Mahogany, cherry wood, black lacquer, antique silver, and clear plexiglass match well with burgundy. Finishes that tend to clash in a burgundy and blue color scheme include brass, walnut and bright silver.