International Klein Blue was developed in the 1950s by artist Yves Klein in collaboration with Parisian chemists to preserve the powdery, velvety appearance of ultramarine pigment when applied to canvas. Klein saw blue as a color of infinity and used it to evoke emotion, spiritual elevation, and pure abstraction in his art. Today, Klein Blue continues to captivate designers, artists, and collectors alike, with its luminous intensity influencing not only the world of fine art but also high-end interiors.

Accent Furniture

A single piece of Klein Blue furniture can make a space feel confident and daring. In the Southampton Estate closet, an ombré leather bench shifts from deep blue-black to vibrant royal, standing in sharp contrast to the room’s soft grey and white palette. At Lost Tree Way, a pair of ottomans in the family room echo the geometric blues in the carpet and complement the softened blue tone of the sectional. In the East End Avenue bar, a cobalt accent chair delivers an energizing pop of color that enriches the space. To visually balance a room, we recommend pairing these bold pieces with neutral textiles in soft greys, creams, or whites.

Art

One of the most authentic ways to introduce International Klein Blue in an interior is through art. Whether it’s an original Yves Klein piece, for the fortunate few, or a contemporary work inspired by his palette, a vibrant blue art piece can be a powerful focal point in any room.

In our Winter Retreat project, a bold piece by Greg Bogin takes center stage. The shade of blue is mesmerizing, standing out against the room’s sandy palette. In Central Park South, “Folder Spear” in cobalt, a sculpture by John Mason is particularly reminiscent of Klein’s iconic shade, bringing depth and intrigue to the central hall. Pops of blue sprinkle the gallery wall of the Lakefront Home, coordinating well with the room’s palette. In our Tonal Palette on Park project, an ultramarine and green painting by artist Frank Bowling adorns the dining room wall.

Lighting

While less expected, lighting is a great way to introduce bold hues into a room. Even the smallest design elements can become a focal point when rendered in a vivid color like Klein Blue.

This powder-coated table lamp in our Park Loggia model unit has a big impact despite its stature due to its energetic ultramarine color. Against the white walls and complemented by a yellow sofa, this touch of blue brings a welcomed contrast to the space.