Talking about Colours

Date: 2015-10-07; view: 416.

The biggest influence on the human state of mind with the possible exception of the weather is colour. We are surrounded by references: "a red rag to a bull", "blue with cold", "green with envy", "in the pink".

The psychology of colour and how colour affects human behaviour is now a serious course of study at universities. Hospital rooms, classrooms, fast food restaurants and offices are painted in colours to influence the behaviour and mood of the people who use these spaces. Even the products on the shelves of your local supermarket have been packaged in colours carefully chosen to attract your attention and encourage you to buy.

Strong colours are best confined to the rooms that have less usage. Hallways and cloakrooms are ideal spaces in which to experiment. No one spends much time in these rooms, so you can afford to be bold. Just because these spaces may be small or narrow, don't be afraid of using vivid colour.

The important thing is to consider the quantities and decide on your main colour and then add carefully selected accents. For example, red, white and blue colour scheme is a great choice if you need an easy colour solution for your interior. This is an easy colour scheme for any space from the living room to kid's room.

White is a great neutral color to accentuate doorways, window frames and other architectural details with in blue or red interiors because it balances out any bold color scheme.

Subtle, muted wall colours (like off white) are fine, and very easy to live with. But you can contrast and enliven them with bright highlights in your accessories and upholstery. If you consider a multi-coloured rug, some coloured ceramics or glassware, vivid prints or paintings, or squashy cushions in jewel tones, the overall effect will be airy and soothing yet the flashes of colour can bring in your personality and be your signature touches.