Farrow & Ball's Hague Blue is an endlessly popular dark paint color – here's how designers decorate with it

If you're a fan of decorating with dark paint colors, then Farrow & Ball's Hague Blue is almost certainly already on your radar. One of the paint brand's best-sellers, this deep hue is equal parts classic, moody, and sophisticated, making it no surprise it's so popular amongst designers and homeowners.

Although dark paint colors are a bold choice, Hague Blue by Farrow & Ball is incredibly versatile thanks to its unique combination of blue and green tones, working in many rooms and design styles.

'Hague Blue is a captivating color that adds depth and a touch of drama to any room,' says interior designer Marie Flanigan of Marie Flanigan Interiors. 'Its rich, deep tone creates an elegant backdrop that enhances both modern and traditional designs. I love how it brings a sense of sophistication and coziness, making a statement without overwhelming the space.'

How to decorate with Hague Blue

Below, we've rounded up five of our favorite ways interior designers have used Farrow & Ball's Hague Blue in interior schemes, from the living room to the bedroom. If you're looking for some classic yet moody room color ideas for your next home decor project, this best blue paint will have you covered.

1. Create a moody library room

Interior designer, Laura Jenkins of Laura W. Jenkins Interiors used Hague Blue across the built-in cabinetry and walls in this home library, resulting in a moody and cozy feel.

'Hague Blue is a favorite swatch of mine because it has so much depth,' says Laura. 'It changes in feeling depending on the lighting ideas. The color is a moody blue that also has a lift to it – one that doesn't feel overpowering but rather encompassing. I also love its undertones, which can change depending on the color you pair with it.'

2. Opt for a classic, luxe bedroom

While many often stick to decorating with neutrals in bedrooms, dark paints can actually be just as calming, while also adding a sophisticated feel.

In this bedroom designed by Bethany Adams Interiors, Hague Blue is used across the walls while the white ceiling and fireplace provide contrast. Additionally, the pops of bold color through decor add a playful look to the dark tones of Hague Blue.

'In a recent project, I painted the primary bedroom, including a wall of built-in wardrobes Hague Blue for a look that the homeowners described as eclectic boutique hotel', shares Bethany. 'Equal parts relaxing and cool, Hague Blue is a wonderful backdrop to all sorts of other colors, ranging from pastel hues to bold brights, as seen in this vibrant bedroom.'

3. Use it in north-facing rooms

'Our ever-popular Hague Blue works a treat in north-facing rooms because of the underlying green note making it never feel too chilly,' says Patrick O'Donnell, Farrow & Ball color consultant and brand ambassador.

While dark, north-facing rooms are often decorated with light neutrals to counteract the darkness, Hague Blue proves that dark colors can be just as effective, so long as they have a warm undertone.

In this cozy bedroom, interior designer Paloma Contreras opted for Hague Blue across the walls, complementing the room's classic decor. 'We used Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue to create a cozy respite in a primary bedroom, providing a serene calm in a room where you need it most,' says Paloma.

If you have a north-facing bedroom, consider Hague Blue for a calming, cozy space that won't feel too harsh.

4. Make a statement with kitchen cabinets

Dark kitchens have seen plenty of popularity recently, creating a bold look in the heart of the home. If you're intrigued by this color trend, Hague Blue allows for all of the drama of dark hues yet ensures the space still feels warm and welcoming.

Whether you paint the walls or the kitchen cabinets as seen here in this modern kitchen designed by Samantha Ware Designs, Hague Blue will elevate your kitchen ideas and provide a fresh contrast from classic neutrals.

Marie Flanigan recommends contrasting the dark paint color with lighter tones and warm accents, ensuring a relaxed look. 'Balance the depth with lighter, neutral tones and incorporate ample natural light,' says Marie. 'Pairing it with metallic accents and warm woods can create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere.'

5. Create a cozy living room

Hague Blue will always make for a timeless color choice when used across living room walls. Resulting in a cozy and cocooning space, experts say this color is especially effective in small rooms.

'Hague Blue is a great addition to small rooms,' says Patrick O'Donnell. 'This is because it allows you to play with the limitations of space by embracing the dark through the use of moody, inky tones.'

When choosing color combinations for Hague Blue, Patrick recommends teaming it with dark green hues to fully embrace the warm and cozy scheme: 'In rooms where natural light is limited, dark blues and dark greens can make very happy partners – who said blue and green should never be seen? Try using Hague Blue on your walls with Studio Green on your woodwork.'

While some dark paint colors can overpower spaces and feel intense, Hague Blue is the opposite. This nuanced paint color with both blue and green tones provides enough warmth to ensure rooms feel warm and cozy, while still bringing a sense of drama. Whether your style follows traditional decorating ideas or modern decorating ideas, Hague Blue can be a go-to paint color.