
The effects of color in psychology
Color is an important factor in interior design. Color affects our mood but also the way we perceive the space around us. Different colors have different effects. They can make us feel calm, happy, relaxed or active, irritated and tired. At the same time color influence the impression a room has, it can make it bigger, smaller vibrant, or boring. The way we use color in space is of vital importance to get the ambient of the space.
The color perception by an individual is often personal and based on cultural backgrounds but even though perceptions of colors are subjective some color effects are globally acknowledged. Colors are divided into warm and cool colors. In the warm colors are included red, orange, and yellow. In the cool colors blue, purple, and green are included. According to the psychology of colors, warm colors evoke emotions ranging from feelings of warmth and comfort to feelings of anger and hostility. On the opposite cool colors waken feelings of calmness and relaxation but they can also arouse feelings of sadness and depression.
The use of color in interior spaces can define the ambiance , provoke emotions and highlight the use of a room. For example, on bars, restaurants, and cafeterias there are often used vibrant colors which provoke people to be active. In spas and pool areas the use of cool colors is preferred in order to create an environment of relaxation. In bedrooms often soft colors are used which enhance the use of the room for serenity and prepare the user to calm and prepare for sleep.
Color selection is not the only important factor to create a comfortable environment, the combination of colors is also crucial. The way we combine colors can create homogeneous environments or in contradiction create “noise” and uncomfortability. The combination of different colors is often used to highlight or hide elements in a room or to give the perception that a room is smaller or bigger and to enhance or differentiate the character of spaces that host multiple uses. The usage of white shadings in the above cases is an essential element since it can act as a connector between the different elements, to enhance the use of other colors, or simply be applied in order to lighten a room.
The world of color is endless, there are limitless combinations and solutions which can be applied in interior design. However, colors must be used wisely to have a positive effect, evoke positive emotions, and create inviting environments which reflect the use of each space.
https://www.verywellmind.com/color-psychology-2795824
https://www.realestateagent.com/blog/the-psychology-of-light-and-color-in-interior-design/
https://www.livforinteriors.co.uk/blog/2019/9/27/how-to-apply-colour-psychology-to-your-interior-designs
https://linesmag.com/color-psychology-in-interior-design-the-power-of-color/
https://www.luxdeco.com/blogs/styleguide/colour-psychology-interior-design