Joanna Gaines, co-founder of Magnolia Homes and star of Fixer Upper, is known for her sophisticated yet cozy interior design aesthetic that features neutral palettes, natural textures, and imperfect beauty. One of the signature elements of Joanna’s style is her use of blue in various tones throughout her home projects. But what exactly is her favorite blue paint color for walls?
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Joanna’s Favorite Blue Paint Colors
According to interviews and blog posts, Joanna has named a few specific blue paint colors over the years that seem to be her tried-and-true favorites:
- Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray – A light grey-blue that reads as a soft blue on walls.
- Sherwin-Williams Naval – A classic navy blue that is rich but not too dark.
- Benjamin Moore Wythe Blue – A green-gray blue inspired by the IOcean air on the coast of Wylie, Virginia.
- Benjamin Moore Hale Navy – A deep, inky blue that reads as almost black.
Joanna often mentions Repose Gray and Naval specifically when asked about her favorite blue paint colors. She has used both shades in many homes on Fixer Upper to add a cool, calming touch to rooms like bedrooms, bathrooms, and offices.
Why Joanna Loves Blue
In several interviews, Joanna has shared details on why she is consistently drawn to various shades of blue for her home design projects:
- Blue is a calm and peaceful color that creates a soothing oasis inside a room.
- The right blue can read as a neutral but adds more character than plain white.
- Blue works well with both warm and cool color schemes.
- Different blues can set different moods, from light and airy to cozy and moody.
- She often uses blue in kids’ and family spaces to create a relaxed atmosphere.
Joanna is a master at layering and blending blue hues in ways that feel natural yet interesting. She often offsets her blue walls with warm wood tones, antique-looking finishes, and touches of white or black for contrast.
Examples of Joanna Using Blue
Here are some notable examples of Joanna Gaines using her favorite shades of blue in Fixer Upper homes:
Wythe Blue Living Room
- Soft green-blue walls create an airy backdrop.
- Crisp white trim keeps the look fresh.
- Wood ceiling beams add warmth.
- An antique Persian rug grounds the space.
Navy Blue Front Door
- Inky navy front door makes a statement against white siding.
- Pops of white in pillars, trim details, and planters balance the dark blue.
- A warm wood door adds contrast.
Repose Gray Bedroom
- Light blue-gray walls set a soft, relaxing mood.
- Crisp white bedding pops against the blue.
- Wood nightstands and a rustic chandelier keep the room feeling cozy.
Hale Navy Bathroom
- Dark, dramatic navy on the walls creates an intimate spa-like feel.
- Marble countertops balance the darkness with light and texture.
- Metallic finishes and fixtures add sheen.
Tips for Using Joanna’s Favorite Blues
Want to incorporate some of Joanna Gaines’ favorite sophisticated blues into your home? Here are some top tips:
- Test blue paint swatches on walls at different times of day. Light impacts how blue paint colors look.
- Go for soft blues in north-facing rooms for peaceful ambience. Use bold blues to add drama in south- or east-facing spaces.
- Pair light blues with warm metals like brass or gold for an elegant look.
- Mix different blue tones in one space for added depth. Try a navy on trim with a lighter blue on walls.
- Add in blue decorative accents like pillows, rugs and accessories to complement blue walls.
- White or wood trim helps make bolder blues feel crisp and balanced rather than overwhelming.
- Don’t be afraid to paint ceilings blue! Use a lighter shade for an airy effect.
Shopping Joanna’s Favorite Blue Paint Colors
Want to try out some of Joanna Gaines’ favorite sophisticated blues in your own home? Here are some specific blue paint colors and products to shop:
Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray
- Light blue-gray with green undertones
- Works well for walls, cabinets, front doors
- Also available in posh taupe undertones as Repose Gray SW 7015
- Available in multiple finishes like matte, eggshell, etc.
- Dark navy blue with green undertones
- Sophisticated for accent walls, front doors, exterior siding
- Also available in waterborne acrylic-alkyd enamel
- Soft sheen finish
Benjamin Moore Wythe Blue HC-143
- Blue-green gray inspired by coastal vibes
- Works well for bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms
- Matte, eggshell, pearl, and enamel sheens available
- Also available in ben Interior line
- Inky, deep navy that reads as almost black
- Striking for doors, accent walls, exteriors
- Soft matte finish
- Also available in ben Interior line
Be sure to grab color swatches and samples before committing to gallons of paint. Test different blues in different lighting at different times of day to find the perfect match for your space.
Conclusion
Joanna Gaines clearly has a penchant for blue in all its gorgeous hues and tones. Her favorite blue paint colors like Repose Gray, Naval, Wythe Blue, and Hale Navy prove that blue offers incredible versatility for all different spaces. From barely-there blues with grey undertones to dramatic bold navy hues, Joanna shows how to make blue feel sophisticated yet cozy. Next time you’re looking to inject some blue into your home, keep Joanna Gaines’ favorite blue paint colors in mind as a starting point for cool, inviting style.