Colours are more than just a visual aspect of our surroundings. They influence our emotions, behaviours and even our well-being. Understanding the psychology of colour can help us create environments that enhance our daily experiences, whether it’s at home, in the workplace or public spaces. This article explores the impact of colours in our everyday spaces and provides practical tips on how to use them effectively.
See also: Summer wall colour palette for 2024: Trendy colours for interiors
Psychological impact of colours
Red: Energy and excitement
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Red is a powerful colour that evokes strong emotions. It is associated with energy, passion and action. In interior design, red can be used to stimulate people to make quick decisions and increase expectations. However, too much red can lead to feelings of aggression and can be overwhelming.
Blue: Calmness and serenity
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Blue is often considered a calming, serene colour, which is why it’s frequently used in bedrooms and healthcare facilities. It promotes physical and mental relaxation and can help reduce stress. Lighter blues are particularly effective in creating a peaceful atmosphere, whereas darker shades can sometimes seem cold or melancholic.
Green: Balance and harmony
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Green, the colour of nature, promotes balance, harmony and rest. It is soothing to the eyes and is said to help alleviate anxiety. Green is ideal for places where you need to think productively and creatively, such as offices and schools.
Yellow: Happiness and optimism
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Yellow is a bright and cheerful colour that can create a sense of optimism. It is often used in kitchens and dining areas to create a welcoming atmosphere. However, similar to red, intense or overly bright yellows can be disturbing and might provoke anxiety.
Purple: Luxury and creativity
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Purple combines the calmness of blue and the energy of red. It is often associated with luxury, wisdom and creativity. Light purples like lavender can be soothing, whereas darker purples may evoke a sense of luxury and comfort in a space.
Orange: Friendliness and comfort
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Orange is a blend of red’s passion and yellow’s joy. It’s friendly, inviting and less overwhelming than red. It’s great for exercise rooms and living areas where you want to promote a sense of comfort and enthusiasm.
White: Simplicity and cleanliness
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White is popular in design due to its flexibility and the clean, fresh ambiance it creates. It makes spaces appear larger and brighter. However, too much white can feel sterile, so it’s often balanced with other colours.
Black: Sophistication and depth
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Black adds a sense of sophistication and depth to any space. It’s great for accentuating features and can make other colours pop. However, it’s best used sparingly, as too much black can make a room feel cramped and oppressive.
Practical tips for using colour in your spaces
Understand the mood you want to create: Choose colours based on the emotions you want to evoke in your space.
- Consider the size of the space: Light colours make a room feel larger, while dark colours can make it feel smaller and cosier.
- Test your colours: Paint a small section of your wall and observe how the colour looks at different times of the day.
- Mix and match: Combine colours to balance their psychological impacts, ensuring they harmonise without clashing.
FAQs
What colour is best for a productive workspace?
Blue is considered one of the best colours for a workspace as it promotes productivity, stability and calmness.
Which colour should I avoid in the bedroom?
Bright reds should generally be avoided in bedrooms as they are stimulating and might make it difficult to relax.
Can colours affect children's moods?
Yes, colours significantly impact children’s moods. Soft blues and greens are calming and comforting, while bright colours like yellow can be energising.
What is the best colour for a small room?
Light colours like white, light grey and pale blue can make small rooms feel bigger and more open.
How do colours affect people with visual impairments?
High contrasts can help those with visual impairments navigate spaces better. People with colour blindness might not react to colour cues as expected, so it's important to consider texture and contrast for accessibility.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
