When it comes to selecting Colour schemes for our lounge, kitchen or bedroom many of us will simply choose the colours we like, but particular colours can have a huge impact (for better or for worse) on our well-being, mood and subconscious.
We’ve teamed up with colour expert Gareth Henderson of gih studio, to uncover the powerful effects colour has on our emotions. “Colour has an undeniable psychological impact,” says Henderson. Find out more about the emotive power of colours and how this can affect the mood in your home.
Red
“Red is bold,” states Henderson. “It seeks attention from your eye because it contrasts with the majority of colour that is around us, which happens to be blue and green.” Vibrant red can stir-up energy and be very impactful in a room. Consider some popular terms you’ve probably used, like ‘red-hot sale,’ ‘seeing red’ or ‘red-carpet treatment.’ On the downside it’s also associated with caution, opposition or danger.
The Positives: exciting, energising, dynamic, stimulating, dramatic, motivating, impactful
The Negatives: aggressive, antagonistic, danger, warning
Orange
Orange colours remind us of bold, beautiful sunsets, cascading autumn leaves and refreshing citrus. The colour is associated with high energy levels and enthusiasm. Like red, it’s a warm, stimulating colour that encourages action and thought. An excellent choice for promoting conversation or physical action. Just be warned that orange can take on an immature tone if it’s used too abundantly.
Positives: positive, fun, whimsical, active, friendly, sociable, good-natured, glowing
Negatives: frivolous, immature, loud, cartoonish
Yellow
Yellow is a positive, cheerful tone that’s soft yet stimulating, just like warm radiating sunshine. Mellow Yellow has been known to lift one’s self-esteem and spirits. “Use shades of yellow to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere,” suggests Henderson, “but be advised that saturated or intense yellow can create feelings of insincerity or deceit.”
The Positives: joyful, friendly, radiating, optimism, nourishing, hospitable
The Negatives: cowardice, caution, fear, betrayal
Green
Green is definitely an on-trend colour at the moment. This is probably because of its ability to act as a natural stress reliever. Garden green is associated with nature and its abundance: lifegiving, refreshing and nurturing. So, it comes as no surprise that green has a calming and reassuring effect. Try green colours if your aim is to promote restorative relaxation.
The Positives: healthy, balance, life, growth, soothing, fresh, restorative
The Negatives: Envy, jealousy, illness
Blue
“Blue is a natural cooling colour and has an excellent calming effect on both the body and mind,” says Henderson. When thinking of blue it’s common to come up with images of the ocean or sky. For this reason, it inspires tranquillity. It also has associations with intelligence and productivity. Try blue for clarity and communication. “Harsh blue lighting can associate with depression or feeling blue,” warns Henderson, “so be mindful of the tone you choose and try not to light a blue wall with blue light.”
The Positives: serenity, dependability, aquatic, authoritative, classic, confidence
The Negatives: coldness, emotionless, aloof, melancholic
Purple
Purple is a dramatic, rich and sophisticated colour. “Interestingly, the colour doesn’t readily occur in nature so it has a mysterious, rare appeal,” explains Henderson, “it was also a fabric that was historically difficult to dye, so it cost a fortune and was reserved for royalty and the wealthy.” Find your inner spirituality, creativity and imagination with purple. It can, however, be perceived as overwhelming and distasteful if used to excess.
The Positives: luxury, spirituality, imagination, sophistication, mystery, drama, prestige, wealth
The Negatives: decadence, extravagance, aloofness
Pink
“For the most part, pink is a soothing, feminine tone.” says Henderson. “Being a softer version of red, it can stimulate creativity depending on how you balance it out with other colours.” Pink symbolises compassion, support and kindness, so consider using light shades of pink to create contentment and childlike innocence. Be advised however, that dark or shocking pinks associate with being nonconformist or eccentricity.
The Positives: affectionate, compassionate, soft, youthful, tender, sweet, innocent
The Negatives: outrageous, nonconformity, eccentric, gaudy
