As we enter Spring, more of our clients are ready to redecorate. Deciding upon color is a topic that most consumers struggle to overcome. We thought it would be helpful if we delve into how color has a psychological impact in interior design. Color is such a broad subject, so we are going to tackle this as a three-month series.

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YELLOW – Is cheerful and happy…in small doses. However, the caveat to this is that it can also be overstimulating. Many an argument has occurred in a yellow room as a result. Remember to use yellow sparingly and have serious conversations in a room with a more soothing color. Yellow is a perfect color for an entryway. A few fun facts below about this bright color.
•    Provides an optimistic flair to the space.
•    Increases stimulation of the neurological system.
•    Reflects an enormous amount of light and is, therefore, straining to the eyes if used in large quantities.
•    Increases metabolism.
•    Increases energy.
•    May cause people to become angry quicker than any other color.  Therefore, best used in pale shades when applied on walls.
•    May upset young children or babies when specified in a bold hue.

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BLUE – Blue is one of my absolute favorite colors and is quite popular because of its soothing and nurturing nature. Psychologically speaking, blue is one of the most profound colors in relation to the human mind. It is used in master bedroom suites to create soothing and spa-like spaces. When specified in too many of your room elements it can cause depression, so use blue wisely. Look below for interesting tidbits about this tranquil color.
•    Is a color of formality.
•    Brings down blood pressure and heart rate.
•    Dark blue wall colors can evoke sadness. However, light shades of blue are calming.
•    Light blue will make a room appear larger.
•    A light shade of blue can be utilized in a sunroom to keep the room cooler in the heat of summer.
•    Blue in a kitchen will decrease appetite and increase weight loss.  Therefore, is perfect for a residential project but is not recommended for restaurant design.
•    Adored by both genders.

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GREEN – Green evokes a sense of nature and healing. It is a color that represents growth, change, and stability. Widely accepted as a “spa” color, it helps with relaxation of the mind.
•    Lowers blood pressure.
•    Represents tranquility.
•    Helps in the healing process and is used in healthcare frequently.
•    Green is restful and easy on the eye.
•    Provides stress relief and comfort.
•    Helps with fertility.
•    Green combines well with other colors.

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PURPLE – A light version of purple such as lavender, is restful and calming. However, a dark value of purple adds drama, sophistication and encourages creativity. Check out some interesting facts about this royal color.
•    Restful.
•    Encourages creativity.
•    Represents, wisdom, wealth, and royalty.
•    Represents spirituality.
•    Calms nerves and is relaxing.
•    Can be depressing if used in large quantities and if walls are painted a dark shade.
•    Works well with other colors.
•    Gives a dignified and dramatic look to the space.

I truly hope you enjoyed part one of our color psychology series! It’s fun to learn how the mind responds to color and we can’t wait to share more with you next month! Happy Spring, design friends.

Shayla

Photo courtesy of Janet Warlick

Shayla Copas, owner and principal designer of Shayla Copas Interiors is an award winning Arkansas designer who has been voted by numerous publications as a favorite designer in the state.  Her work has graced the pages of AT HOME IN ARKANSAS and other statewide and national publications throughout her 20 year career.  Most recently, her work was featured on the cover of a Christmas interior design book, featuring several top designers across the nation including, Christopher Radko and HGTV personality Joe Ruggiero. Shayla is a member of the Interior Design Society and National Kitchen and Bath Association. Her new blog EN VOGUE with SHAYLA COPAS focuses on trends in home design and entertaining.