Martha Stewart just shared a throwback photo of a 1980s kitchen – and experts say the 'dated' color scheme is back in fashion for 2024

American retail businesswoman, writer, and television personality Martha Stewart knows an interior design trend when she sees one. Stewart has helped shape our homes for decades – products from her Martha Stewart Collection on Amazon take pride of place in my kitchen – so when she shared a photo of her culinary space from the '80s there was one thing we noticed; the blue color scheme. Conjuring endless skies and infinite seas, pale blue is the color of the moment – just as it was back in the 1980s.

Fresh, airy, and imbued with the restorative power of nature, decorating with blue has this year been tipped by interiors experts as the perfect backdrop to modern living. 

‘Whether we are working or relaxing, creating or exercising, it is essential to have a space that reflects the optimism and desire for a fresh, new start that is top of the agenda for the year ahead,’ says Marianne Shillingford, creative director of Dulux. Naturally soothing, but equally energizing and hopeful, the shade promises to bring the outside in to enhance well-being.

For a modern kitchen that will stand the test of time, wall tiles and cabinetry in a duck egg shade is an easy-to-live-with choice that works beautifully with period features.

‘To get the best out of a blue like this, pair it with neutrals to give it a chance to sing,' says Sarah Davies-Bennion, senior designer, of Kate Guinness Design. 'Mixing it with too many other strong colors will result in a confused look akin to an accident in a child’s paint box.’ 

Blue and white is another fantastic color combination for rooms that will remain timeless. Loved by homeowners and interior designers alike, blue and white is a classic pairing for kitchens that is wonderfully versatile. Far from being two-dimensional, the palette can be used to achieve all sorts of looks, from smart and sophisticated to subtle and serene, depending on the shades you use and the proportions in which they are incorporated.

Synonymous with the sea and sky, blues are often linked to coastal style and are a go-to for breathing freshness and calm into the home. ‘Blue and white create a tranquil atmosphere,’ says Debbie Leigh, design manager of fabric brand Iliv. ‘Blue is often associated with feelings of serenity and relaxation, while white helps make a room feel airy and spacious. Used together, these colors create a peaceful and inviting atmosphere – perfect in a hectic family kitchen.’

The color duo works beautifully with other hues, such as oranges and greens; however, for those looking to embrace a pure two-tone scheme, it is vital to introduce plenty of texture to keep the space inviting and prevent it from feeling stark. Decorating with varied tones, patterned fabrics, and materials with beautiful patinas, will all help bring the look to life.

Shop for blue furnishings and accesories

If re-tiling or re-painting your kitchen is not on the agenda for you, why not introduce pale blue accents into your home through beautiful furnishings, appliances, and accessories instead? Blue is the most wonderfully gender-neutral color.