There are many of us for whom redecoration is an all-consuming task. Swatches, samples, and catalogues become vital currency, and we spend so much time on Pinterest that we end up scrolling in our sleep. One of the trickiest aspects of overhauling your living space can be deciding on colour schemes. Colour has a huge influence on how we interpret our environment, so it’s an important thing to consider wisely.
However, picking colours doesn’t need to be a daunting task. Inspiration can come from endless sources; current trends seen in magazines, a favourite piece of furniture, or the villa you honeymooned at in Bali. Aesthetic preferences and personality are important factors to consider, but one stone often left unturned is the psychological effects of colour. Colours have a proven impact on the way we feel. This is a phenomenon that has been observed for many centuries, going as far back as Ancient Egypt where practitioners would expose the ill-stricken to certain colours believed to have healing properties.
Whilst the way we perceive colour is subjective, experts on the subject generally agree on certain principles. Read on to discover how colour can be used to create a home that is as pleasing to your mind as it is your eyes.
Photo credit: Jonas Ingerstedt

BLUE

Shown to lower blood pressure and your heart rate, it’s no surprise that blue is associated with calmness and serenity. Lighter, softer shades can bring a feeling of zen to high-traffic areas such as the kitchen and bathroom, where a moment of tranquillity can go a long way. Discover our blue-hued shopping edit here.
 
RED
This stimulating colour has the opposite physiological effects to blue. Red is great for spaces used for socialising or entertaining – when used in a living or dining room red can promote conversation and liven gatherings with family and friends. It’s also a key component of Pantone’s far-fetched colour palette – one of the 2018 interior trends we’re most excited about.

 
Photo credit: roomed.nl
GREEN
Considered the most restful colour for the eye, green promotes relaxation whilst also having enough warmth to encourage togetherness. It’s a great choice for almost any room in the house but works especially well in a hallway, making the transition from outdoors to indoors that little bit easier. If painting feels like too much of a commitment, why not try a green statement lampshade?
Photo credit: Fresh Home

PURPLE

The colour of luxury and opulence, purple is a fitting choice for sophisticated living rooms or master bedrooms. Darker shades add richness and drama, whilst lighter tones, such as lilac and lavender, bring restfulness. Feeling daring? Ultra violetPantone’s 2018 colour of the year, could be the hue for you.
 
Photo credit: A Beautiful Mess
YELLOW
If you want to bring happiness and creativity to a room then yellow could be the colour for you. It works particularly well in spaces with a lot of natural light, and is particularly effective at energising and uplifting small and/or dark kitchens and bathrooms.


Photo credit: Good Moods

ORANGE

A highly energetic hue, orange is best used as an accent colour due to its often-overpowering nature. It would work well in a room where you want to expend energy – a home gym, for example – or scattered throughout your living room. We love these citrusy scatter cushions from Trouva boutique Oklahoma.
 
Photo credit: Amber Interiors
WHITE
Creating the impression of purity and cleanliness, white also makes a room feel more expansive.  Its real value lies in its flexibility; it works well in any room and you can add colour with furnishings and ornaments as you please.

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