NetWorks Issue 17: The Design Issue

Harnessing Colour

Nicola Barden, BSF Solid Surfaces, unveils the vital role of colour in Interior Design

When it comes to interior design, colour is not just a superficial touch; it’s what brings spaces to life. Even when every element of a space has been carefully selected, the wrong colours can make the space look unsettling or uninviting. Alternatively, judicious use of colour can enliven a boring space with mediocre furnishings, making it appear larger and inviting.

We all know about Feng Shui and the relevance of the placement of objects in a space; colour should be viewed in the same way.

Colour speaks volumes without uttering a word. It’s a silent communicator, evoking emotions and sentiments that resonate with people on a profound level. Understanding the impact of colour on us, as humans, is important.

Reds and yellows infuse spaces with energy, vitality, and cheerfulness. This is why McDonald’s use red and yellow in their branding, to create an energetic environment that encourages a quick dining experience.

Blue is often associated with calmness, tranquillity, and stability. Exposure to blue light has been shown to decrease systolic blood pressure, arterial stiffness, and improve endothelial function in humans. Used in hotel rooms, it may promote restful sleep.

Green is commonly associated with nature, growth, and harmony. It has a calming effect and is often used to create a sense of balance and renewal. Hospitals and healthcare facilities often incorporate green elements into their design to promote healing and well-being.

Colour theory isn’t just about the colour, it’s also about tone. Bright red and yellow makes the perfect design choice for a McDonald’s interior, but change the tones to a rich, earthy red, terracotta, or warming orange, and the space takes on a completely different feel.

Furthermore, colour can serve as a masterful tool for spatial manipulation, subtly altering perceptions of size and dimension. This aspect is particularly crucial in making design choices, where every inch matters.

Darker shades cocoon spaces, offering a sense of intimacy, while lighter tones open rooms up, flooding them with a sense of airiness and expansiveness.

The choice of colour for these elements can make or break a design and should be the subject of much discussion; whether choosing the colour palate for your brand, office space or bedroom.

Practically speaking, colour enhances functionality and comfort within interiors.

Where designs use Solid Surface for their worktops, reception desks, bar tops, tea points, wash troughs or other items, the issue of colour is often especially important, as these often feature as the focal point of a design and can be used as a statement piece.

Furthermore, colour acts as a unifying force, seamlessly tying together diverse design elements within interiors.

The essence of colour within interior design is multifaceted and deeply personal. It goes beyond mere aesthetics, serving as a powerful means of self expression and storytelling. Make sure you experiment, see what works together, but also make sure that you know what feelings you are trying to evoke in the people using the space. If in doubt, use a colour wheel to discover complimentary colours, or hire a professional!

COLOR PSYCHOLOGY

Different colours may evoke different psychological responses, and understanding this can be powerful in various contexts such as interior design, branding, and marketing:

• Blue: Blue is often associated with calmness, tranquillity, and stability.

• Yellow: Yellow is often linked to happiness, optimism, and energy.

• Green: Green is commonly associated with nature, growth, and harmony. It has a calming effect and is often used to create a sense of balance and renewal.

• Red: Red is a bold and intense colour associated with passion, excitement, and energy. It can stimulate appetite and increase heart rate.

• Purple: Purple is often associated with luxury, creativity, and spirituality. Beauty brands often use purple in their packaging to convey a sense of elegance and prestige.

• Orange: Orange is a vibrant and energetic colour associated with enthusiasm, warmth, and creativity. It can evoke feelings of excitement and vitality. Sports teams and fitness brands often use orange in their branding to energize and motivate their audience.