Our careers may affect the colors we choose for our home decor. For instance, a Creative may need a home void of colors to calm them after a hectic, bright, bold artistic day. Whereas, others may need stimulation when they finish a day of meetings and memos. Knowing yourself and what inspires and motivates, calms and grounds you will help to guide your color choices.
Color has long been studied for its power to affect mood. In fact, the ancient Egyptians and Chinese viewed chromotherapy as an effective means of healing. Most of us just know that some colors make us feel good; others not so much. And in this way color can be very subjective based on our culture, life experiences, our personalities and preferences. When it comes to choosing color for your living spaces, knowing how certain colors can affect you will help you create an environment that comforts you, your family and anyone who enters. Here is a general guide of the power of color but remember: trusting your own senses is key.
Blue
With its perceived power to bring down blood pressure, slow respiration and heart rate, blue is well suited for a variety of uses in the home. Many find it calming and serene so it is often recommended for bedrooms and bathrooms. However, blue can also be used skillfully to encourage relaxation in social areas such as family rooms, living rooms or large kitchens; especially when done in warmer tones.
Yellow
Energizing and uplifting, yellow brings with it optimism and enthusiasm. But beware: in large doses, it may encourage feelings of frustration and anger for some. For wall color, it may be best to use it in smaller spaces, perhaps in an entryway or laundry room. If you are someone that yellow makes happy, consider using it for textiles in living areas and for tableware in dining areas.
Green
Combining the cheeriness of yellow with the serenity of blue, green has the ability to relieve stress and initiate relaxation. It is ideal in areas where winding down should commence. Bedrooms, bathrooms and family rooms can benefit from its restful quality. Experiment with different shades to see which is most calming to your eye.
Red
Want to raise energy levels and excitement? Red can be used to draw people together and stimulate conversation. When combined with lamp or candlelight it has an unmistakable richness and elegance. Regal and opulent, especially in its warmer hues, red has a welcoming effect in entryways and living areas. For those passionate about red, stick to accents in bedrooms and bathrooms.
You may have an immediate reaction to this list of colors knowing exactly what you and your family gravitate toward. Or you may be at a loss since admittedly you love all of these colors…..
Takes cues from your armchair travels to design your home:
- Do the multi-colored homes of Cinque Terre energize you?
- Does the hydrating green of Ireland refresh you?
- Do the golden colors of the Serengeti relax you?
- Does the azuls of Greece inspire you?
- Do the oranges, pinks and reds of Sodona enchant you?
A life of travel is wonderful! Better yet is designing a life you don’t need a vacation from.
Our team of expert designers can help to guide you through the process of discovering what’s best for you as well as design a home you love and that reflects you and your lifestyle.