Colour is one of the basic ways to influence how people and how they relate to the environment. We adapt to our surrounds and it influences our moods and emotions. Colour is found in nature and can be broken down into seasons. In summer we see bright, vibrant colours; winter dark moody and monochromatic tones; autumn earthy tones of yellows and browns and spring we see bursts of greens and tonal shades. The colours we associate with depends a lot on where we live and our personal culture. Using Colour in your space can set the mood and tone for your environment. This can have a positive psychological and emotional impact on you and your family. Below is a guideline to the meaning of colours and how you can utilise them in your space.
- Hopeful Blues and Teals
Softer blues are associated with hope, growth and new beginnings. These colours are relaxing and calming and lend themselves towards tranquility and health. This side of the spectrum balances colours of nature. These soft tones are mainly beneficial in bedrooms and lounges; by promoting conversations and livening up the room.
- Ultra Violet
Purples are associated with abundance, elegance and wealth. Purple can lean towards either the fiery reds or the calming blues which help to harmonize and create balance and peace within a space. Use hues of purples in the study to create abundance of wisdom.
- Earthy Oranges, Yellows and Browns
All three tones can be found clustered in nature around autumn time where they symbolise warmth and radiance. The deeper earthier tones represent endurance and strength, while also being tranquil and nurturing. Use fleshy muted tones in the bedroom as they are restful and soothing. Brighter tones can stimulate energy and appetite.
- Classic Whites
White symbolises purity and simplicity, it is also the absence of all the colours and can represent new beginnings. White can be seen as warm fluffy clouds or stark coldness. It’s a great colour palette to start off in the home, which is suitable for all rooms. Use softer shades of off white, as they are friendlier and less harsh to the eyes. White creates the appearance of the room looking larger, brighter and cleaner.
- Supportive Greys
Shades of greys are considered to be tranquil, quiet and balance tones of black and white. They are an easy shade to use as they complement most colours of the spectrum. Grey can however feel gloomy and depressing, and is thought of as an ambiguous colour, much of a “grey area”. Its non-committing hues are suitable for most spaces in the home, as it shows the space being cooler and sophisticated.
- Grounded Blacks
The colour black is related to knowledge and wisdom and is a blend of all the colours. Using black creates depth and grounds the space as it symbolises the incorporation off all things. However black can be contemplative if over used, and it can generate too much of a dark look and become depressing as it absorbs light. Seemingly it can also create a dramatic space or accent piece.
- Moody Blues and Emeralds
Set the mood with deep hues of blues and greens, these tones assist in feeling meditative, which releases tension and refreshes the body. The colour of dark blue skies and deep jungle green gives an overall quiet and settled feeling especially navy blue and emerald. Blue can be used throughout the space to express communication and a sense of calmness.
- Passionate Reds and Burgundy’s
Red is passionate, dynamic and highly stimulating. While red is a great energising colour to use in a space, it can also be too much in a bedroom or relaxing space. Use it moderately as a little can go a long way. Blend it with mature tones such as wine reds and burgundy’s or lighten the mood with softer pinks and pastels.
- Soft Pinks
Pinks are associated with nurturing, softness, romance, feminine and innocence. On the other hand pink can be associated with youthfulness and happiness. Use in bedrooms and lounges as it helps by flattering the space as an intention to build stronger relationships and create happy and playful spaces.
The above is simply a guideline as everyone feels and interprets colour differently. Which is your preferred colour? Leave a comment below.