Color Psychology behind Interior Design: How to Choose the Right Colors for a Relaxing Space
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The colors we choose for our homes can greatly impact our mood and well-being. Whether we realize it or not, the colors around us can affect our emotions, productivity, and even our sleep, So if you are looking to create a more positive and relaxing home environment, it’s worth paying attention to the colors you use especially if you are looking to create a warm relaxing home environment.
The phrase "form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union" is a quote by Frank Lloyd Wright, a famous American architect. It means that the shape and structure of a building (or any other object) should be directly related to its purpose. In other words, how a building looks should be determined by its use.
The same can be said for color.
Color can be used to emphasize the function of an object. For example, a stop sign is red because red is a color that is associated with danger and attention. The color red helps to make the stop sign stand out and be easily seen, which is essential for warning drivers to stop.
Color can be used to create a sense of harmony or contrast. For example, a room painted in warm colors, such as red or orange, can create a feeling of warmth and coziness. A room painted in cool colors, such as blue or green, can create a feeling of calmness and serenity. The choice of color can be used to create a mood or atmosphere appropriate for the space’s function.
Color can be used to create a sense of scale or depth. For example, a large room can feel smaller by painting the walls dark. A small room can feel larger by painting the walls light. The choice of color can be used to manipulate the perception of space and create a sense of balance and proportion.
Color can be used to communicate information. For example, a traffic light uses different colors to communicate messages: red means stop, yellow means caution, and green means go. The color of a product label can be used to communicate its contents or purpose. The choice of color can convey a message or information clearly and concisely.
In all of these cases, color is used to enhance the function of an object or space. By understanding the psychology of color, designers use color to create functional and beautiful designs.
Interior designers use color psychology to help design spaces because they know that the colors we choose can greatly impact our overall health. Different colors can evoke different emotions, so by understanding the psychology of color, spaces can be designed to be both aesthetically pleasing and emotionally impactful.
Here are some other reasons why interior designers use color psychology:
To create a specific atmosphere or mood. For example, a spa might use calming colors like blue and green to promote relaxation, while a restaurant might use vibrant colors like red and orange to create a more energetic atmosphere.
To emphasize certain features of a space. For example, a small room might be painted light to make it feel larger, while a high-ceilinged room might be painted a darker color to create a more intimate atmosphere.
To create a sense of balance and harmony. Complementary colors allow interior designers to create a sense of visual interest without overwhelming the space.
To reflect the client's personality and style. By understanding the client's preferences, interior designers can choose colors to create an aesthetically pleasing and emotionally resonant space.
P.hoto by Mary Madore-Hickey / Merze Lifeestyle
In this photo, you will see examples of all the colors of nature such as blue, green, white, purple, yellow, and brown. It no wonder we talk about these as screen colors to be used in the home.
When it comes to creating a relaxing space, there are a few colors that are generally considered to be calming and soothing. Interestingly, most colors that elicit feelings of well-being are found in nature. These include:
Blue: Blue is often associated with peace and tranquility. It is a cool color that can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
Colors of Nature - Blue and Brown shades
Green: Green is another calming color that is often associated with nature. It is a refreshing color that can help to promote relaxation and focus.
Green hues of nature
Purple: Purple is a luxurious color that can create a sense of calm and serenity. It is also a good color for promoting creativity and imagination.
Different hues of purple
Photo courtesy of Baker Furniture / Barbara Barry Design
White: White is a neutral color that can help to create a sense of space and light. It is a good color for calming the mind and promoting relaxation.
Pale yellow: Pale yellow is a gentle color that creates warmth and coziness. It is a good color for bedrooms and other spaces where you want to relax and unwind.
Design and photo by Francis Sultana / Photo by Manolo Yllera
Brown: Brown is often associated with wellness in color psychology. It is seen as a natural color that inspires warmth and comfort. Dark shades of brown represent wood elements, while light browns stand for earth.
Here are some of the ways that the color brown can promote wellness:
Reassurance and security: Brown is often seen as a safe and secure color, which can help to reduce anxiety and stress. It can also be used to create a sense of grounding and stability.
Comfort and relaxation: Brown is a warm and inviting color, which can promote feelings of comfort and relaxation. It can be used in bedrooms and other spaces where people want to unwind and de-stress.
Naturalness and simplicity: Brown is associated with nature and simplicity, which can promote feelings of peace and tranquility. It can be used in home decor and other areas where people want to create a calming and relaxing atmosphere.
Strength and resilience: Brown is also seen as a strong and resilient color, which can help to boost confidence and self-esteem. It can be used in workspaces and other areas where people want to feel motivated and productive.
Of course, the meaning of the color brown can vary depending on individual experiences and cultural associations. However, overall, brown is a color that is often associated with wellness and positive emotions.
Photo by Mary Madore-Hickey / Merze Lifestyle
In this photo, I was interested in all the shades of brown in this rock formation as well the greens and very light blue sky.
When choosing colors for a relaxing space, it is important to consider the size and layout of the room, as well as the amount of natural light it receives. For example, it is best to use light and airy colors in a small room, such as white or pale yellow. You can use darker colors in a large room, such as blue or green.
You should also consider the furniture and accessories in the room when choosing colors. For example, if you have a lot of dark furniture, you will want to use lighter colors on the walls to create a sense of balance.
If you are unsure which colors to choose, it is always a good idea to consult a professional interior designer. They can help you create a relaxing space that is perfect for your needs.
additional tips for choosing the right colors for a relaxing space:
Use a variety of colors to create interest and depth.
Avoid using too many bright or bold colors, which can be stimulating and overwhelming.
Use light and airy colors in small rooms to make them feel larger.
Use darker colors in large rooms to create a more intimate and cozy atmosphere.
Consider the furniture and accessories in the room when choosing colors.
Wooden decor such as organic shaped bowls or side tables are lovely to add in an environment.
Botanical prints or plants always adds harmony to a home.
Experiment with different color combinations until you find one that you love.
Colors of blue, brown, yellow, and green
“Everything is composition...your face, my face, a room...any room.
The skyline is a composition as is the view from the plane window. Food on your plate is a composition as is the work on your desk. Everything is composed in a way that is pleasing...or not.
”
There is no mistaking it; the beautiful colors of nature bring wellness into any space. With a bit of planning and effort, you can create a relaxing space perfect for unwinding and de-stressing.
“May your home be a place where friends meet, family gathers, and love grows. ”
As with everything I post on my blogs, please feel free to comment, or if you have any questions, please email me through my contact page. I welcome it anytime!
Design with your heart™️
Happy designing, my friends!
Mary
