Psychology of Color

Color, as mentioned in my earlier blog post (Making Theory a Reality), is the most emotional element of design. There are so many different colors, shades, and intensities. The paint color chosen for a room is the foundation, followed by the décor you want to place in the space. Color schemes can be read in many different ways. Colors have the power to make us feel various ways. For example, a bright yellow will make me feel cheerful, or lavender purple will make me feel relaxed.  I realize that there are so many choices to choose from when it comes to paint, but if you can identify what mood you want to portray or what feeling you want that room to have, it will make your decision a bit easier.

“Color Scheme (Noun):

An arrangement or pattern of colors or colored objects conceived of as forming an integrated whole: the color scheme of a living room.” –Dictonary.com 

There are many different types of color schemes. The picture below shows a monochromatic room, the predominant color being purple. There are splashes of white here and there, but whites, browns, blacks, and greys are not considered to be colors.  

Space from Barbara Gilbert Interiors.

According to HGTV, if the color scheme in the room is right, it will enhance your feelings of health and wellbeing, make your space feel larger or cozier and intimate, and it will illuminate dark areas and energize static areas. The right color depends on the person. The psychology of color is a big trend right now. When choosing a color, you must consider these questions:

          "1. Where is the room?

           2. How many windows are there and which direction do they face?
           3. Is there landscaping outside that will have an effect on the colors in the room?
           4. Who will use the room, and what will they do there? Is it private or community space?
           5. Will it be a sociable and active place, or a peaceful place? How do I want it to feel?" -HGTV

You can also make color schemes with just primary colors (red, yellow, blue), secondary colors (orange, purple, green), complementary colors (yellow and purple), or even just warm colors (red, orange, yellow). With all the colors and intensity variations, the possibilities are endless.

I absolutely love this blog because it talks about the color wheel, color theory, and breaks down the various color schemes. If you are interested in learning more about color schemes or are redecoration and trying to come up with a color scheme, check this blog out! The author even provides pictures of color wheels to help identify which scheme she is talking about. Also, I found this neat tool online that can further help you decide on a color scheme. Happy decorating!!