American socialite, fashion designer, and television personality Kathy Hilton is no stranger to style, and the mother of Paris Hilton certainly knows a thing or two about curating a designer-worthy home, too. In particular, it is Kathy’s dramatic indigo kitchen cabinet color scheme that has caught the attention of color aficionados and experts everywhere.
Designed by Nicole Gordon Studio, Kathy Hilton's blue kitchen is a masterclass in elegant, color-forward design.
With homeowners moving decisively beyond stark minimalism, the new year brings the opportunity to inject spaces with mood-enhancing color. Conjuring endless skies and infinite seas, blue is the ultimate color trend of the moment, and designers predict this emotional hue is set to dominate color trends throughout 2026.
Fresh, airy, and imbued with the restorative power of nature, blues have been widely tipped by interiors experts as the perfect backdrop to modern living. But what is it about decorating with blue that designers love so much?
Blue regularly tops the list of most popular kitchen cabinet color choices, and it’s easy to see why. Dark shades, like the denim or indigo tones seen in Hilton’s cabinetry, offer a surprisingly safe choice that works in most kitchens, contemporary or traditional, no matter their size. It’s also surprisingly calming and easy to live with – a must-have in such a busy space that often acts as the heart of the home. Best of all, blue kitchen cabinets look great with virtually every material, from light wood and stone to marble and granite.
This enduring popularity is not accidental. Used for centuries, decorating with blue is enduringly popular, harmonizing with many hues for gloriously diverse results every time. This historic hue feels very much at home in a contemporary interior, offering a sophisticated backdrop for displaying favorite collected pieces, as well as metallic hardware, such as the bronze or brass accents often used in Kathy Hilton's kitchen.
As Farrow & Ball's Brand Ambassador, Patrick O'Donnell notes, ‘When choosing room color ideas, indigo is a timeless and versatile shade to use in an interior space.’ He adds that Indigo can create a ‘very regal backdrop for a sophisticated kitchen when teamed with paler delft blue, as seen in Hilton's kitchen.’
Naturally soothing, but equally energizing and hopeful, the shade promises to bring the outside in to enhance well-being. To style a blue kitchen for 2026, pair it with neutrals such as off-white and cream for classic calm, or with stronger, warmer tones like mustard, olive, sienna, and burgundy for a unique, head-turning scheme. Whether you opt for a subtle hint or go all out, stay confidently on trend next year with a beautiful blue-hued kitchen.
Shop the blue kitchen edit
If repainting your kitchen cabinets isn’t on the cards, bring in blue through stylish decor, appliances, and accessories. It’s an easy, low-commitment way to embrace the color trend.
Since 2012, the best-selling Old Havana collection has brought rustic, elevated charm to the table. Artisan-crafted in Portugal with reactive and crackle glazes, each piece showcases luminous color and durable design for everyday use. Mix, match, or coordinate styles for a timeless, compliment-worthy setting.
Add a pop of color to your kitchen with this blue ceramic vase, featuring a unique glazed finish and convenient dual handles. Its vibrant blue tones create a striking focal point on countertops, islands, or open shelving, while its versatile farmhouse design complements a variety of kitchen styles. Perfect for fresh, dried, or faux flowers, it brings both style and function to your culinary space.
Add a restaurant-quality touch to any dish with freshly ground pepper from this classic adjustable mill. Simply turn the knob clockwise for a fine grind or counterclockwise for a coarser sprinkle, letting you season to taste every time.
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