What Is Color Psychology?
'Colour psychology is the notion that we subconsciously associate colors with feelings and moods.' explains Helen Shaw of Benjamin Moore. 'The impact of color is highly prominent in our homes. When looking for design inspiration, we are subtly guided in our choices by color psychology; everything from the bigger decisions such as paint and furniture through to the finishing touches.'
Should We Decorate Our Homes According To Color Psychology?
Perhaps unsurprisingly, the overwhelming majority of interior designers believe that color psychology should always influence how we decorate our homes. 'Understanding color psychology helps us celebrate the power color gives people to express themselves the way they choose to show up that day.' explains Tash Bradley, Lick’s Director of Interior Design and Colour Psychologist.
How Do You Decide Which Colors You Should Use?
This very much comes down to how certain colors make you feel. So when deciding on a color scheme for any room really consider what mood you want that room to put you in, and what emotions do you want the room to invoke.
However, don't follow these assumptions too closely if they don't work for you. Maybe blue is too cool of a shade for your home and it would feel stark rather than calming and perhaps in fact decorating with a warm rich red makes you feel relaxed and comforted. 'There's definitely truth to certain color combinations working well together and consistently evoking feelings like calm, warmth, and playfulness. That said, I always advise my customers and design clients to follow their instincts when it comes to color palettes,' explains designer Kathy Kuo. 'If you love a particular color or palette, go for it! You can always rearrange, redecorate, or repaint if your tastes change and feeling happy and excited about your color choices matters more than anything prescribed by 'color psychology.'
'Color absolutely affects the mood and ambiance of a space and how people feel and interact within a space. Interestingly, however, people will view the same color differently. For some, light bright spaces are calming, restorative, and relaxing, while for others light bright spaces can feel cold, soulless and clinical and not at all pleasing.' adds designer Cherie Lee. 'For some dark moody cocooning colors offer a sense of calm and peace, while others may find this somber, oppressive, and even a little depressing. Some people will be energized in colorful rooms, while others will find an abundance of color draining and chaotic. 'And be mindful also that seasons will also affect how people view color, dark colors in winter may feel welcoming, whereas in summer months it can have the reverse effect.'