Dulux has revealed Rhythm of Blues as its much-anticipated colour of the year. Commenting on the paint brand’s trio of blues, four interiors’ experts from Arighi Bianchi, Apollo Blinds, ROCCIA tiles and My Fitted Bedroom share their top tips on clever ways to complement Mellow Flow (a soft and tranquil pastel), Free Groove (a playful, expressive mid-blue) and Slow Swing (a deep, cocooning navy) with accessories and furnishings throughout the home.
“Complement blues with trending metallic accents,” says Lucy Mather, interiors expert at luxury home furnishing store Arighi Bianchi.
“Rich and velvety, Slow Swing makes the perfect backdrop for a living space,” says Lucy. “Whether used across panelling or on a feature wall, it instantly creates intimacy. Inky walls work especially well when paired with tactile textures and metallic accents in chrome, brass or gold. The key is in the layering – velvet sofas, bouclé cushions and wool throws – with ambient lighting to soften the depth of the colour.”
For a more playful take, a luxurious velvet corner sofa in a striking mid-blue, paired with warm wood floors and a textured rug, instantly energises the room. “Let the blue sing,” Lucy advises, “but balance it with neutrals and metallics so it feels inviting rather than overwhelming.”
“Dining rooms are all about mood, and Slow Swing delivers a richness that immediately elevates a space,” adds Lucy. “I would style it with a large wooden dining table, where the warmth of the timber contrasts against the depth of the blue. Keep the look welcoming with neutral upholstered chairs and brass or gold pendant lighting to add a subtle glow.” The result, she says, is “a scheme that feels cocooning and luxurious; the perfect backdrop for entertaining.”
“Window dressings are one of the easiest ways to weave Dulux’s Rhythm of Blues into a room,” says Matt Thomas at Apollo Blinds.
“Colour drenching in blue can be achieved by adding full length curtains against a dark blue wall to give an on trend look for 2025. Add a roller blind in a bright-blue to create a contrasting striking feature against neutral walls. And for a more luxurious finish, inky blue Roman blinds combined with warm bronze or rust curtains deliver real drama – perfect for formal living spaces or moody bedrooms.”
Matt also highlights the importance of pairing blinds with the right backdrop. “Pale walls in whites, creams or muted greys emphasise Mellow Flow’s lightness, while Free Groove pops beautifully against off-whites or even deep charcoals if you’ve got plenty of natural light,” he explains. “With Slow Swing, lighter walls and warm accents prevent the shade from feeling too heavy, or you can go tonal with matching walls and blinds for a seamless, cocooning vibe. Blue blinds aren’t just practical – they change the whole mood of a room.”
“Blue gives an ‘unexpected’ wow factor for floors,” says Ashif Kazee, Tile Trends Expert at ROCCIA
“Used well, blue tiles offer instant wow factor. Blue floor tiles have the power to anchor a space, creating depth underfoot while introducing subtle layers of texture and pattern. A tile finish that catches the light adds movement and an almost organic quality that softens what could otherwise be a hard surface. And there’s so much choice – from watery ripples, marbled swirls or tonal variations – these natural irregularities are what make blue such an expressive and tactile choice for flooring. The spectrum is wide too – from serene powder blues that bring calm, to dramatic navies that ground a room with authority.
“Tiling in Rhythm of Blues-inspired shades is perfect for the on-trend mineral drenching aesthetic, where walls and floors merge into a single enveloping canvas. It’s grounding with a luxurious feel that works as well in bathrooms as it does in living spaces.”
Ashif recommends using light, mid-blue, or deep navy porcelain tiles in painterly onyx designs: “Their fluid swirls echo Rhythm of Blues depth and vibrancy, creating cocooning spa-like bathrooms – where you can unwind in mineral calm – or living rooms with a dramatic yet tranquil backdrop.”
For bedrooms, he suggests wood-effect designs with organic graining to capture the softness of Mellow Flow. “This will evoke a sense of natural serenity, while adding warmth and texture to create a true sanctuary retreat.” And for a bold statement, Ashif highlights geometric patterned tiles that deliver graphic drama while echoing the indigo richness of Slow Swing. “This type of design is ideal for boot rooms or utilities where you want character and distinction with a luxe edge.”
“Create a bedroom that breathes with Mellow Flow-inspired coloured furniture,” says Megan Baker, head of design at My Fitted Bedroom
“Bedrooms should feel like sanctuaries, and Mellow Flow is the perfect shade to achieve it,” says Megan. “The light, sky-like quality instantly softens a space and helps you unwind at the end of the day. Try using the colour for fitted wardrobes for a soothing backdrop or add darker blue doors alongside Mellow Flow walls.”
Megan recommends pairing blues with natural textures – linen bedding, wicker baskets, warm oak or walnut furniture – to keep the look grounded, and adding softly gleaming metallic accessories, such as a brass bedside lamp or a brushed gold mirror, to add just the right level of sophistication without tipping into formality. “For a moodier bedroom with a more cocooning feel,” she adds, “Slow Swing works beautifully when softened with lots of lush greenery and tactile rugs. Perfect for a retreat that feels both luxurious and comforting.”
“Have fun with blues in boot rooms and cloak rooms,” says Megan Baker, head of design at My Fitted Bedroom
“Hallways, utilities, and boot rooms are often some of the hardest working yet most overlooked spaces in the home. And vibrant shades like Free Groove are a fantastic way to have a little fun with colour. Whether used on cabinetry, panelling or fitted storage, an expressive mid-blue will instantly energise the space and inject a sense of fun without feeling overpowering.”
She advises keeping surrounding walls and floors neutral, so the shade really shines, then layering in practical but stylish details. “Woven baskets, patterned runners, or even a splash of earthy green will echo the playful vibe,” she explains. “The result is uplifting as well as functional – cheerful, welcoming spaces that make you feel good every time you step through the door.”
“Combine the trio of blues in accessories around the home”, says Lucy Mather, interiors expert at luxury home furnishing store Arighi Bianchi.
“The beauty of Dulux’s Rhythm of Blues palette lies in its versatility. Mellow Flow soothes, Free Groove energises, and Slow Swing grounds. Whether used alone or layered together, these shades create a rhythm that suits every mood and every room. And you don’t need to commit to just one”, says Lucy.
About our experts
L-R:
Lucy Mather, Design Expert at Arighi Bianchi
Established in 1854, online furniture and furnishings retailer, Arighi Bianchi, is celebrated for its extensive range of luxury furniture brands and high-quality home accessories. Its flagship store, widely regarded as the North West’s premier interiors shopping destination, is located in Macclesfield, Cheshire.
Ashif Kazee, Tile Trends Expert at ROCCIA
Founded in 1994, ROCCIA has the UK’s largest independent tile, bathroom and kitchen showroom in the UK, and is renowned for its award-winning design expertise and an unrivalled selection of luxury surfaces sourced from leading European manufacturers. From statement porcelain and marble-effect tiles to bespoke panelling and architectural finishes, ROCCIA’s showrooms in Preston and Bolton showcase the latest in innovative, high-end design for residential and commercial spaces alike.
Matt Thomas, Design Director at Apollo Blinds
Established in 1972, Apollo Blinds has grown to become one of the UK’s leading retailers of made-to-measure window coverings, including blinds, shutters, curtains, and awnings. As a national brand delivering a local service, Apollo Blinds operates through a franchise network of entrepreneurs dedicated to providing expert advice and professional installation. The company is part of the Hunter Douglas Group, the world’s largest manufacturer of window blinds, granting access to innovative, high-quality products.
Megan Baker, Head of Design at My Fitted Bedroom
My Fitted Bedroom is a leading specialist in bespoke fitted bedrooms and wardrobes. The company offers a wide range of custom designs including modern and traditional wardrobes, shaker styles, sliding wardrobes, walk-in wardrobes, media rooms, and fitted kitchens. With a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, My Fitted Bedroom is rated excellent on Trustpilot.