Give browns a boost with contrasting blue accessories.

A Rekindled Love Story Brown and Blue

Does it seem like your beautiful brown furniture is fading into the background? Here in Sri Lanka, we have a deep love for rich mahogany and warm teak – furniture that gets passed down through generations. But sometimes, all that brown can start to feel too much. Don't worry, there's a simple solution that injects personality without sacrificing the appeal of your beloved furniture – a hint of bright blue!

Why Brown Holds a Special Place in Sri Lankan Homes

Our love for brown is deeply rooted in our culture. Remember those sturdy houses built with beautiful hand-hewn timber? That appreciation for natural materials translates into our furniture choices too. Brown wood represents strength, stability, and a connection to the earth – all things we value. Plus, those heirloom pieces hold memories of family gatherings and laughter, making them even more special.

While brown furniture brings warmth and a sense of history, sometimes an abundance of it can make a room feel a little heavy or monotonous.

Why Blue is the Perfect Match for Brown

This refreshing colour evokes feelings of calmness, a perfect counterpoint to the warmth of brown. Think of the sapphire blue of the Indian Ocean gently lapping at our shores, or the clear blue sky above tea plantations. Blue instantly injects a breath of fresh air and a touch of vibrancy into your room.

Finding the Perfect Shade of Blue

The beauty of blue is its incredible versatility. From calming baby blues to energising cobalt blues, there's a shade for every mood. Consider the existing brown in your room. Warmer browns pair well with cooler blues, while cooler browns can handle bolder blues. Think about the amount of natural light – a well-lit room can handle a deeper blue, while a dimly lit space might benefit from a lighter shade. Finally, what mood are you going for? Soft blues create a calming atmosphere, while vibrant turquoise can add a touch of liveliness.

A Blue Statement Wall

If you're feeling adventurous, a statement wall in a bold shade of blue can be a real showstopper. Consider wallpaper with a Sri Lankan-inspired geometric pattern that evokes the grandeur of ancient temples, or a floral design that captures the vibrant blooms found in gardens. Stencilling a custom blue design onto your brown wall can also add a personalised touch. Think of intricate geometric patterns or a playful design with playful elephants or majestic peacocks.

Adding Blue Accents

The good news? You don't have to grab a paintbrush! Feeling blue? Nah, make it fabulous! Here's how to rock blue accents with your stuff:

Textile: Consider plush blue throw pillows adorned with vibrant peacock feathers, or cushion covers and table runners in stunning batik designs that echo the intricate patterns of textiles.
A Touch of Porcelain: Add pops of blue with vibrant Kandyan pottery vases overflowing with sapphire-coloured grapes, or delicate porcelain bowls painted with intricate blue floral designs reminiscent of the island's stunning flora.

Breathing Life into Your Brown Tables

Don't forget about your brown tables! A vibrant blue table runner with a touch of Sri Lankan flair can make a world of difference. Opt for ones embroidered with silver or gold thread, or featuring traditional batik patterns that celebrate the island's rich textile heritage. Create a stunning centrepiece by placing a blue ceramic vase filled with white lilies on the table, or a bowl overflowing with sapphire-coloured grapes.

The Finishing Touches

Light up your room with lamps featuring blue shades or pendant lights with a touch of cobalt blue glass. Add a welcoming touch to your hallway with a blue doormat that features a warm Sri Lankan welcome message. The key is to create a home that feels like you – a balance between the timeless warmth of your brown furniture and the refreshing energy of blue accents.

So, go forth and experiment! With a few hints of blue, you can turn your brown home from a bit basic to a vibrant space. It's like adding a spoonful of that magical katta sambol (spicy shrimp paste) to your polos – just a touch to advance the whole experience!