Powder blue is having a moment. Where navy once reigned as the go-to kitchen accent, this softer, airier shade is stepping in, offering freshness and light without losing depth.
Set against the warmth of natural wood, the kitchen color feels calm, restorative, and quietly luxurious – very much in step with autumn 2025’s shift toward lighter, more optimistic palettes in the home.
And it’s a look Jennifer Garner has rubber-stamped. Known for her warm, approachable style and unfussy approach to home life, she revealed a wood-and-blue kitchen in her own house. The cool clarity of powder blue, softened by natural timber, creates a balance that feels instantly welcoming and right on trend.
Painted Shaker cabinetry has always been a favorite in stylish kitchens, but this particular combination feels especially fresh right now. Designers are leaning into tactile contrasts – painted finishes paired with raw wood, polished stone with softer textures – to create kitchens that feel both modern and enduring.
Sherwin-Williams’ 2025 Color Collection, which included shades like Quietude and Delft, captures this same mood: blue that is calm, grounding, and deeply livable. Powder blue’s subtle vibrancy enlivens the classic silhouette, while wood adds depth and texture, making the scheme both grounded and light.
Designer Nina Lichtenstein often turns to powder blue for its timeless appeal. 'Blue is universally associated with calmness, making it an ideal choice for spaces where relaxation is key,' she says. 'Light blues evoke the freshness of a summer sky or the tranquility of a still lake, fostering a peaceful atmosphere. And beyond its calming influence, blue also has a grounding effect.'
Lichtenstein continues. 'When used as a primary color in a room, blue can anchor the space, providing a stable backdrop that allows other elements to shine.' When it comes to kitchens, Lichtenstein suggests keeping the balance right with lighter finishes. 'To balance the boldness of blue cabinets, pair them with white or light countertops,' she advises. 'This contrast not only lightens the space but also highlights the rich color of the cabinets.' Natural materials are another favorite pairing (just like Jennifer Garner’s wood-and-blue kitchen).
Do’s and don’ts for choosing the right blue in your kitchen
Do consider undertones
A powder blue with a touch of gray will feel calming and timeless, while one with green notes leans fresher and more coastal. Always test your swatches in the actual light of your kitchen before committing.
Do pair with natural materials
Wood cabinetry, stone counters, and unlacquered metals will ground blue and stop it from feeling too sugary or cold. The softness of natural oak or walnut is especially good alongside powdery shades.
Do use it to zone a space
Blue cabinetry works beautifully on a kitchen island, breakfast nook, or pantry wall, creating a focal point without overwhelming the whole room.
Don’t forget depth and balance
Too much pale blue can wash a kitchen out. Balance it with warmer woods, richly veined marble, or even a deep navy accent on base cabinetry.
Don’t fight your architecture
In a heritage home, keep to chalky, muted blues that feel in keeping with period features. In a modern scheme, embrace crisp, cleaner shades.
Don’t overlook hardware
Handles and hinges make or break the look. Nickel or pewter brings a subtle polish, while brass lends warmth and contrast against cooler tones.
Quick buys to get the powder blue look in your kitchen
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