What wall colors cause what emotions?
It was Pablo Picasso that once declared that, “colors, like features, follow the changes of emotions.” That is to say, there is a stark connection between our emotions and our color preferences. This can also be true the other way around. Generally speaking, we relate certain colors to certain emotions, and as such, there is a lot more consideration that should go into your interior design than simply aesthetic taste.
But that begs the question: why do colors influence your emotions? Well, humans are visual creatures. Anything we see has the potential to merit a psychological response. And everything we see, has a color. As a human grows and experiences the world, they start to notice certain colors being associated with certain objects, activities, and yes, even emotions. The degree of which colors impact our psyche is contested in the scientific community, but it is generally accepted that color has some sort of effect on us.
So, without further ado, here is a list of each color and their expected effects on our emotions. Bear in mind that these effects are going to be most pertinent to western cultures, as other cultures may assign different meanings to each of the colors.
- Black – typically represents a whole slew of negative emotions. Darkness, death, evil, if its an emotion you don’t like, it can fall under this color. As such, black is rarely a good fit for any room, but there are instances where it can work. Black successfully compliments many colors, especially white, so a black wall may look appealing if mixed with a complimentary carpeting or furnishing.
- White – The antithesis to black, you can expect white to represent all positive emotions. The fact is, there’s a reason Gandalf was called “The White Wizard” in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Despite this alluring feature of white, it does also invoke more monotonous emotions. Simplicity, apathy, dullness, white can be missing any flare the other colors may contribute. If you want to bring out the best of white paint, pick a well-lit room with many windows. It’ll reflect off your room in a glowing manner that will always uplift your guests’ moods.
- Red Tones – A spectrum of warm, extreme colors, red tones include orange and pink. These colors are vibrant, and will be the most successful at evoking stronger emotions. While these emotions can include anger and restlessness, in the right environment, such as a game room or home gym, they can evoke feelings of power, competition, and eagerness.
- Blue Tones – A spectrum of cool, deep colors, blue tones include purple and cyan. Blue is often associated with melancholy emotions, such as sorrow, fatigue, and weakness, but that doesn’t mean those colors can’t contribute to more positive emotions when used appropriately. After-all, blue is considered the color of serenity and peace as well. Just ask the United Nations. Blue tones can work best in your living room, home office, or even personal chambers.
- Green tones – In the family of cool colors, green tones include olive and turquoise. Green has often been associated with greed and mischievousness, but that doesn’t mean a green room will slowly but surely turn you into a bank robber. Green also symbolizes good fortune, calm, and good health. Green’s ambivalent representation means that I can be used in virtually any room without giving off the wrong vibe.
- Yellow Tones – Finally, we have the other member of the warm colors. Yellow is a stark color that is often associated with jubilation, glee, and attention. However, scientifically, yellow has been known to put the most strain on the eye. Make sure that a yellow room isn’t one that you spend most of your day in, or you may find yourself being more tired than usual. In small doses, yellow tones can sometimes bring out the most personality in a room.
How To Use This Information
Interior design can be a tricky field, and as such, it’s important to know what seemingly minute details can have a lasting effect on your home’s overall comfort level. The colors you use on your walls can make or break a room. Once you’ve selected the appropriate colors for your planned rooms, make sure you choose a complimenting, quality carpet. If you’re in the Denver area, then look no further than Sloane’s Carpet Secrets. You tell us the colors of your walls, we’ll tell you which of our Denver carpet and discount rugs will bring out the best in your room.