The Impact Of Colour

International Colour Day is coming up, and we thought that we could talk about the colour psychology behind some popular colours.

Colour psychology explores how our brain perceives colour. Different colours have various effects upon our nervous system. Colours are of deep significance to us and have more influence on us then we can possibly imagine. They can strengthen, sooth, and inspire us.

Different colours evoke different memories and emotions, so when choosing colours you have to go with your intuition. However, it would seem that many of us have similar reactions to colours. What’s your favourite colour?

Grey

Grey is a timeless, and practical solid colour. The colour grey has associations of calmness and is a neutral colour. It can also be associated with feelings of depresssion and can give the sense of being solid and stable.

In interior use, grey is has been a very popular choice in the last few years, and hass seen many homes us grey in both their interior and exterior. We think if the right tone of grey is used it can mix well with any colour. However, if you get the grey tone wrong, it can have a dampening effect on a space.

In the last few years grey, in all its shades has been a very popular colour chioce for homes. We love the charcoal colours paired with crisp white trim.

Although well liked and often worn, people rarely name grey as their favourite colour, possibly because grey is associated with loss or depression. However, if used correctly grey will make a statement!

Have you used grey successfully in your home?

Blue

The colour blue is said to be the most favoured colour in the world. Much of the world is blue, the sky and the sea.

Blue is a colour that promotes feelings of calmness and serenity. It’s often described as peaceful, tranquil, secure and orderly. Blue has also been found to lower the pulse rate, body temperature and produce chemicals that are calming. Over the years blue has been associated with steadfastness, dependability, wisdom and loyalty.

The colour blue when used in interiors can evoke these feelings. Many bedrooms are blue because it’s a calm and restful colour. Soft blues will calm the mind and aid concentration. Consequently blue is often used in bathrooms, bedrooms and nursery’s.

However, some shades of blues (too much blue) can send a cold and uncaring message. It can be seen as depressing but for others these shades represent stability, quality and security. Strong blues have also been said to stimulate clear thought.

Green

Green is associated with nature and that makes it a relaxing and balanced colour.

Being in the centre of the spectrum, it is the colour of balance. It also has the positive connotations of harmony, rejuvenation, rest, growth, hope and tranquility. Its is an ideal colour for kitchens, bedrooms, sunrooms, studies, living and relaxation areas.

In interiors, light to medium green can evoke natural surroundings which create serence, soothing environments helpful in neutralising tension. For example, guest waiting to appear on television programs often wait in the ‘green room’ to relax.

Yellow

Did you know that yellow is the brightest colour in its pure form and is said to be the happiest colour?

Yellow is associated with sunshine and energy. Its a joyful, optimistic and idealistic colour. It radiates warmth, cheerfulness and happiness.

You’ll see yellow used in kitchens, dining rooms or north facing rooms. It’s an ideal classroom colour and in small areas a tinted yellow wall is said to stimulate the intellect.

Would you consider using yellow in your interior?

There are so many colours that you can use in your home, so why not experiment? You can always use a particular colour as an accent through your soft furnishings, or be brave and make a statement with your wall colour choice.

We are always here to help and would love to chat to you about colour. Get in touch if you’d like more information.