China Blue derives its name from the oriental blue and white porcelain highly prized by European collectors in the 17th century and onwards. The now classic colour combination of China Blue and white lends a light and airy ambience to a room scheme in both town and country properties thanks to its clean and contrasting appearance.

When used on a design such as Les Pecheurs China Blue Wallpaper (shown), a late 18th century Chinoiserie style fishing scene, it brings a lively and playful narrative to walls. Create an enveloping toile effect with blinds or drapes made in its twin sister, Les Pecheurs China Blue Linen Mix Fabric. Don’t forget to stabilise the look with an accent plain, as shown here on the window seat using the heavyweight, pure linen cloth Campbell Blue Jean Plain Linen Fabric.

Indigo feels regal and sumptuous when used on a silk jacquard fabric. For best effect, head for unashamedly stately and fulsome window treatments that will showcase the deep colour of the classical damask pattern beautifully.

Consider Deauville Indigo Silk Fabric (shown) with its elegant floral trail that seeks inspiration from the decorative French designs of the mid-18th century Rococo period. Trimmings and tassels are a design must for embellishment. Use the refined silhouette of Onion Fringe in Blue on the inside edge from top to bottom for shapely elegance. Hold the drapes in position with a traditional Luxury Tie Back in Taupe.

Wondering on a paint combination? Keep it warm with Fournier Street. A soft taupe shade, originally sourced from Georgian townhouses occupied by wealthy silk merchants in the heart of London’s Spitalfields.

At the cool end of the scale, pearl blue forms a serene background for spaces that receive a good amount of warm, natural light. This muted blue with a hint of grey works effortlessly in south and west facing rooms that enjoy the heat of the day.

For a sophisticated yet lighthearted air, Roman blinds made from sophisticated linens take this colourway well. Look to Mughal Trail Fabric in Pearl Blue (shown), inspired by an early 19th century Persian shawl design, to frame a pleasing view. Its stylised floral design with highlights and lowlights of charcoal and stone can be teased out across the rest of the scheme on metalwork, lighting and flooring. Choose a white paint like White Ribbon as a classic accompaniment on walls and window frames.

Midnight blues continue to get the vote from interior decorators thanks to their decadent and hypnotic vibe. When applied to plush fabrics, such as velvets, these inky hues form a deep and handsome backdrop for holding charismatic patterns and riotous complementary colours.

Upholstered armchairs, sofas and headboards are an amusing way to experiment with these flamboyant designs in rooms upstairs and down. The Bailey Chair in Jannah Midnight Velvet Fabric (shown), covered in a design adapted from the Indian Tree of Life patterns sought after during the 18th century, serves as a room eye-catcher.

Pair with dark wood furniture and pops of aged gold for a bohemian English country house scheme that feels like it has a story to tell.

Let Wedgwood blue take the lead in relaxed and country-inspired properties. This blue brings with it the dreamy feel of warm summer skies and gentle breezes. It makes a good foil for vintage-style bedrooms with romantic brass bedsteads and lace edged bed linen.

Grace a wall with the delicate fern trail wallpaper, Summerby Wedgwood Wallpaper (shown). Based on an early 18th century English dress print, this organic vertical instantly brings delightful rhythm and movement to neutral walls in need of character.

A slubby linen curtain makes a good companion. Try Campbell Parchment Linen Fabric or for something a bit warmer Campbell Biscuit Linen Fabric. As a little finishing touch, add brush fringes to cushions, such as Brush Fringe in Linen, or Onion Fringe in Blue to curtains and blinds.

A classic blue paint shade with subtle green undertones makes for chic colouring in everyday rooms, such as powder rooms, pantries and kitchens. A failsafe livery is Warner Blue (shown) – the colour was discovered in the Warner archive amongst a collection of silk hanks, dating back to 1927 – and is available as a matt emulsion and eggshell for internal woodwork.

Paint wooden surfaces - cabinetry, paneling and doors- to bring warmth and depth to the space. For added height, pair it with a small repeat wallpaper, like Giverny Indigo, for a pleasing combination that feels charmingly considered.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this little look at historical blues from Warner House. As one of the great names in British textiles, our blue range is rooted in a history of beautiful, bold and adventurous design that works every time you use it. Don’t forget to head over to the website and filter via blue under each channel to see all the products available. And don’t forget, you can order free samples before you make your final decision.