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  • Writer's picturechaithanya ganesh

Colour theory in Interior design


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It is very obvious that colour plays a major role in the whole spectrum of interior design. Colour theory and therapy are topics that are widely studied, researched, and debated these days.

Color theory can be defined as both the science and art of using color. It explains how humans perceive color; and the visual effects of how colors mix, match, or contrast with each other. Interior designers and decorators state that "colour theory as the guidelines and rules for which designers use to communicate with users through appealing color schemes in visual interfaces".


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The human mind is abstract yet hefty and it is expected to be the most influencing factor for any prospect. It is no different when it comes to the concern of colour as well.

Let's briefly look at the psychology of colours in interior design:

It is believed and also seen that nothing is more important than choosing the colour palette of the functional area when it comes to the interior designing aspect.

It is studied and proved that colours can actually enhance one's mood, creativity, and productivity to a greater extend. Colour schemes in fact act as a dictating factor for the overall design direction of the space.


Warm and cool shades are another important concept for designers to keep note of as the entire colour psychology revolves around it. The ones with red undertone are specified as warm colours and blue undertoned signified as cool colours.

Red, blue and yellow are considered as the three primary colours and an interior designer is expected to play around with the same brilliantly to bring out the maximum and meet the client needs. But, again the success of a colour scheme solely relies on both physical and psychological context. An optical illusion is another supportive factor that needs to be taken care of while mixing the match and contrast in the interior design styles.


Source: livescience.com


By analyzing from a psychological perspective, each colour denotes and enhances different features and aspects capable enough to create an impact on one's emotional facet.


Let's skim through some basic feature meanings of colour wheel hues:


Yellow - Cheerful, self-confident, warm, happy, creative, friendliness.

Green - Rejuvenating, fresh, lively, harmonious, healthy.

Light blue - Exhilarating, awaking, brisk, electric, clean.

Blue - Introspective, thought-provoking, reliable, trustworthy, strong.

Purple - Sensual, meditating, thrilling, creative, dramatic, expressive.

Pink - Soft, subtle, sweet, cozy, innocent, gentle.

Red - Stimulating, passionate, strong, provocative, energetic, excited

Orange - Optimist, whimsical, persuasive, fun.

White - Calm, airy, serene, pure, clean, silent, innocent

Grey - Comfort, quality, professional, conservative, quiet, timeless.

Black - Powerful, sophisticated, bold, classic, modern, mysterious

Brown - Sheltering, warm, wholesome, natural, reliable, supportive

(Source of info: delightofdesign.com)


A larger portion of colour theory resonates with the psychological perception of human perseverance. Perfect incorporation of client needs with the right interior design aspects has the potential to create the superficial. The ability of the colour to enhance and alter the mood, ambience, and feeling was initially approached with an abstract surprise, which later was studied and researched by conducting various experiments to conclude with its underlying connection to the psychological perspective.


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