Relax and Reflect in a Blue-Themed Landscape

"Blue color is everlastingly appointed by the Deity to be a source of delight," wrote Victorian art critic John Ruskin. Surveys confirm blue as among the most popular favorite colors. Why? Perhaps the shade range—deepest indigo through cyan to blue-greens of turquoise and teal. Blue also soothes the human mind, helping produce calming brain chemicals.

Let's see how designers use this popular shade outdoors—planting schemes, accent colors, full blue-themed landscapes.

Jardin Majorelle, the 12-acre Moroccan garden restored by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, showcases blue as design foundation. Original designer Jacques Majorelle used bright cobalt blue throughout gardens and buildings.

Photo by Uspn (Bjørn Christian Tørrissen)

This blue wall dazzles under clear sky without overpowering, becoming almost one with the sky. Like green, blue is naturally restful—both surround us in nature, contributing to tranquility and well-being.

Opposites on the color spectrum create dazzling combinations. Orange cannas against blue wall make both colors zing.

This sumptuous wall as backdrop for architectural plants pays homage to Mexican architect Luis Barragán. He loved vivid colors on garden walls of modernist houses, feeling they accentuated natural surroundings. His bright cobalt blue represented the Mexican sky, drenching houses in bold, unforgettable color.

See more of this Central California landscape design

Softer light of temperate gardens prefers darker navy and ultramarine over lighter azure or sky blue. Matte powder-coated Cor-Ten steel wall creates elegant backdrop for varied foliage, achieving similar purpose as bright cobalt wall.

Deep red Japanese blood grass (Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra') stands out against muted blue. Blue recedes, not popping against many colors except complementaries like yellows and oranges.

This blue garden is a cool escape from the world beyond the wall. Steel blue granite paving sets foundation for deep blue walls and sky-blue bench back. Fresh green Japanese maple (Acer sp.) and bamboo hedge brighten, interrupted only by warm cushion colors. Urban courtyard—a rhapsody in blue.

Prefer blue as accent on furniture/accessories? Link to sea and sky engenders relaxation and tranquility—perfect for lounge spaces.

White has special affinity for blue—think blue and white willow-patterned delftware loved by 17th-century wealthy. Color combination freshens this patio, aided by yellow (blue's complement) in tables and clever rug drawing all three colors together.

Garden built around blue: bluestone pavers to deep ultramarine petunias to table accessories. White hydrangeas, weathered gray fencing, crisp white table setting complete the effect.

Use blue to highlight gates, obelisks, gazebos, or front entrances. Rather than blue door, designer used accent in side porch supports. Blue-flowering agapanthus alongside path and orange wood stain accentuate the blue.

Blue plants accent borders, break color schemes, highlight features. Deep blue Iris sibirica clumps show versatility—could overpower but combines well with surrounding pastels.

Pride of Madeira (Echium candicans) flowers are true dusty blue with glaucous foliage. Groups along steps lead eye along path, exaggerating staircase length. Harmonizes with steel railings and deck supports for calming combination.

In Blue Mind, marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols writes how water proximity improves body and mind. Combine water with stress-relieving blue—stunning lit pool at night—for happier lives?

If blue soothes modern stresses, perhaps go all the way: Didden Village, Rotterdam, built atop existing houses. All exterior elements including roof gardens finished in blue polyurethane coating. Not for everyone, but bold example of favored color use.

Tell us: Do you use blue in the garden?

More: Explore the Houzz Landscape Design section