The Psychology of Colour in Interior Design: How different colours can affect our mood and behaviour, and how to use colour effectively in design

Does the colour of a place affect us? Can a colour palette set the ambience for a space? Do we gravitate towards certain colours naturally?

The answer is YES. Colour is pivotal to interior design and is used extensively while designing a space. The use of colour not only affects our mood and behaviour but also influences how we perceive a space.

Understanding the psychology of colour can help designers to use colour effectively in their projects and create spaces that evoke a desired emotional response. Understanding the meaning behind colours can also aid colour selection. But, the meaning of colours is not set in stone.

Emotions or meaning associated with colours depend greatly on culture, symbolism and gender. For example, in Western countries, White is seen as a symbol of purity, innocence, and cleanliness and is used as a colour for bridal gowns. While, it is a symbol of mourning, grief and death in the East.

So, how to use colours effectively while designing a space?

As designers, you shouldn’t pick colours based on your bias. You must consider the function of the space, its usage, and how much time people will spend in it. This is an effective way of introducing a ‘mood’ to the space.

The amount of natural light in the room should also be looked into as it can completely alter the look of applied colour on the walls and ceiling.

Another consideration is the size of the room. For example, the use of lighter colours in a relatively small room can make the space seem larger and airy. Alternatively, a large room can be made cosy using warm and dark colours.

Colours can also have an effect on the temperature of the room. Cool-toned colours such as blue can give a perception of cooler temperatures, and vice versa for warm colours like red. Neutral colours such as white, black, brown, and grey can be used as a canvas for other colours.

Let us look at some of the commonly used colours, their effect, and their meaning.

Red is a bold and stimulating colour that can increase energy levels and stimulate the appetite. It is an excellent choice for dining rooms and social spaces, but using red in spaces meant for relaxation, like bedrooms is unwise.

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Blue is a calming and soothing colour that promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Deep and bold shades of blue such as navy and royal blue, invoke confidence and are associated with loyalty, trust and success. These shades can be used in living and dining areas. Lighter shades of blue are a popular choice for bedrooms and bathrooms, where they can create a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

Green is a refreshing and rejuvenating colour that can bring the outdoors inside. It is an ideal choice for living rooms and offices, where it can promote a sense of tranquillity and productivity. On the other hand, highly saturated tones and darker shades might promote the feeling of sickness.??

Yellow is a cheerful and uplifting colour that can stimulate the mind and increase creativity. It is an excellent choice for playrooms and workspaces, but too much yellow can be overwhelming and irritating.

Orange is a warm and inviting colour that can promote socialization and increase appetite. Hues and shades of this colour hold a special place in our culture. They are actively used in therapy for their antidepressant properties.

Purple is a luxurious and sophisticated colour that can create a sense of drama and elegance, a great choice for bedrooms and living rooms. But too much purple can be too intense and overwhelming.

Neutral colours, such as white, grey, and beige, can create a clean and modern look. They are ideal for minimalist and contemporary spaces, but too much neutrality can create a cold and sterile atmosphere.

When choosing colours for a space, it is essential to consider how they will work together to create a harmonious and cohesive look. Designers can use colour theory to determine which colours complement each other and create a particular mood. For example, complementary colours, such as red and green, can create a dynamic and vibrant look, while analogous colours, such as blue and purple, can create a calming and harmonious atmosphere.

Understanding the psychology of colour is critical in interior design. The effects are largely dependent upon their context within a design, whether they are used within an interior or on the building exterior, and to what extent. Different colours can evoke different emotional responses in people. A designer should also keep in mind the client’s colour preferences apart from the theory of colour psychology. By using colour theory and considering how colours work together, designers can create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also promote the desired emotional response.