Padma Lakshmi paints her kitchen walls a surprisingly versatile color – her space is a 'harmonious blend' of contrasting design aesthetics

Home cooks know how important it is to have the right kitchen setup. Seamless kitchen appliances, a full set of cookware, and the right dish set can make or break a culinary space. However, we would argue that a kitchen paint color is just as important as the tools that live in it. Color affects mood, and as such, it's crucial that kitchen walls contribute to an enjoyable atmosphere.

Padma Lakshmi, cook extraordinaire and creator/host of Taste the Nation, has opted for an ever-popular yet timeless shade in her own home kitchen: light blue. In a video posted to her Instagram page, we can see Lakshmi's Robin egg blue walls juxtaposing her metallic, hanging pots and pans and wood countertops.

Despite not technically being a neutral color, decorating with blue is a highly versatile decorating technique, designed for use anywhere from the bathroom to the bedroom. Its serene and cooling properties make it a no-brainer, and we spoke to an expert to find out how and why it works particularly well in the kitchen, as Lakshmi proves.

'Blue paint in the kitchen introduces a sense of calm, creating an inviting environment where culinary creativity can flourish,' says designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'Light blues, reminiscent of the sky and sea, infuse the kitchen with a peaceful ambiance, making it a perfect spot for unwinding while cooking or enjoying a leisurely breakfast. These shades promote relaxation and clarity, allowing the mind to focus on the joys of food preparation and family gatherings.'

While Lakshmi has opted for a lighter blue in her kitchen, Lichtenstein advocates for darker shades for those who want to create a bolder ambiance in the kitchen.

'Darker blues, such as navy or indigo, are deeper, more sophisticated shades,' she says. 'These richer tones evoke a sense of stability and reliability, grounding the space while still maintaining a welcoming atmosphere. A navy accent wall or dark blue cabinetry can create a striking focal point, enhancing the kitchen's architectural features and adding intrigue and drama.'

With regards to the materials that work with blue, Lakshmi has nailed an essential combo of blue and wood. The gentleness of blue beautifully contrasts the natural and hardy wood.

'Blue's versatility lies in its ability to complement a wide range of materials and finishes,' Lichtenstein states. 'Pairing blue walls or cabinetry with natural elements like wood and stone can create a harmonious blend of modern and rustic aesthetics. For instance, a dark wood countertop against a backdrop of soft blue walls can create a stunning contrast, highlighting the natural textures and colors.'

As an alternative to dark wood, Lichtenstein proposes going in the opposite direction and option for an even lighter shade to go against the blue.

'Incorporating blue into a predominantly white kitchen adds a refreshing pop of color without dominating the room,' she says. 'An example would be blue tiles as a backsplash or a blue island in a sea of white cabinets. This approach maintains the kitchen's brightness while introducing visual interest and personality.'

We love blue as a color choice for a kitchen, and particularly enjoy when a wall contasts an unexpected color, such as Lakshmi's maroon cabinets. Try experimenting with blue in various materials in the kitchen, such as a light blue kettle or some blue and white china, which looks handsome behind glass-front cabinets.