Colour is a powerful tool in interior design, capable of transforming spaces and influencing emotions, behaviours and overall well-being. At Cohesion Architects, we understand the profound impact that colour can have on a space and how crucial it is to choose the right palette. In this blog post, we'll explore the psychology of colour in interior design and provide insights on how to select the perfect colours for different areas of your home or workspace.
Understanding the Psychology of Colour
Each colour can evoke specific emotional responses and set the tone for a space. Here’s a closer look at how various colours can influence mood and behaviour:
Red: A bold and energetic colour, red can stimulate excitement and passion. It’s perfect for spaces where you want to encourage activity and social interaction, however it can be overwhelming in large applications so it's best used as an accent colour.
Best room in a house for red: Dining room or living room
Best room in an office for red: Boardroom
Blue: Known for its calming and soothing effects, blue is ideal for spaces where relaxation is key. Lighter shades of blue can make a room feel more spacious, while darker blues can create a sense of sophistication and depth.
Best room in a house for blue: Bedrooms or bathrooms
Best room in an office for blue: Bathroom or Reception area
Yellow: Bright and cheerful, yellow can uplift spirits and evoke happiness. It’s a great choice for a room where there is a lot of activity and interaction. However, too much bright yellow in one space can cause anxiety, so it’s often best used in moderation.
Best room in a house for yellow: Kitchen, dining room or playroom
Best room in an office for yellow: Communal kitchen or “Chill” Area
Green: Symbolising nature and tranquility, green is both refreshing and restful. It works well in almost any room as it promotes balance and harmony.
Best room in a house for green: Home office, bathroom or living room
Best room in an office for green: Private office spaces
Purple: Associated with luxury and creativity, purple can add a touch of elegance to a space. Lighter shades like lavender are soothing, while darker shades like eggplant can create a dramatic, sophisticated look.
Best room in a house for purple: Bedroom or library
Best room in an office for purple: CEO or a Manager’s office
Orange: Warm and energetic, orange can stimulate creativity and enthusiasm. It is best used in an area where you want creative juices to thrive, but should be avoided for places that are designated “calm” areas.
Best room in a house for orange: Playroom or home office
Best room in an office for orange: Any communal area
Neutral Colours (White, Gray, Beige): These colours provide a versatile backdrop that can enhance the sense of space and light. They’re perfect for creating a clean, modern look and can be easily accented with bolder colours for added interest. These colours work well in any room.
Tips for Choosing the Right Colour Palette
Consider the Room’s Purpose: What will the room be used for? How do you want it to feel when someone walks in there?
Assess the Natural Light: The amount and quality of natural light in a room can affect how colours appear. Rooms with ample natural light can handle darker, more saturated colours, while rooms with limited light might benefit from lighter, more reflective hues.
Consider the Colour Flow: Ensure that the colours in adjoining rooms complement each other to create a cohesive flow throughout your home or company. This is particularly important in open-plan spaces. Make sure you get colours that either all have a warm undertone or all have a cool undertone, so that no matter what colours you use, they will blend seamlessly instead of being jarring.
How to Bring in Colour Without Taking a Big Risk
Incorporating colour into your interior design doesn't have to be a daunting task or a major commitment. At Cohesion Architects, we believe that small, thoughtful additions can transform your space without overwhelming it. If you don’t love the idea of colour everywhere, the best thing to do is start with small steps. Begin with accents like throw pillows, rugs, or artwork in bold shades to introduce colour in a more subtle way. Opt for a neutral base in your larger furnishings and walls, allowing these vibrant touches to stand out without dominating the room. If you're feeling more adventurous, consider painting an accent wall or choosing colourful cabinets – these are elements that can be changed or updated with ease. This approach allows you to enjoy the vibrancy and energy that colour can infuse, while maintaining the flexibility to adapt your space later if necessary.
Let Cohesion Architects Pull Your Space Together
The psychology of colour is a fascinating but often overlooked aspect of interior design that can significantly influence the atmosphere and functionality of a space. As the experts, we understand how different colours can affect mood and behaviour, and we want to help you make choices that support your vision. Trust Cohesion Architects to help you select a colour palette for your home or workspace that will transform your space and the energy in it.
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