Interior Design Color Theory


As an interior design student, I found my color theory classes fascinating and loved learning about how color affects us psychologically. As a professional designer, I use that knowledge I gained as a student on every project I work on today. Color in design is very subjective. What evokes one reaction in one person may evoke a very different reaction in someone else. Color theory is a science in itself. Studying how colors affect different people, either individually or as a group, is something some people build their careers on. 

Choosing a color palette for a room can be daunting especially because there are so many options to choose from. There are a few color theory combinations that work very well. Feel free to use some of these tips to help you in your next project.

Choose a complementary color palette. 
Complementary colors are any two hues that sit opposite each other on the color wheel. For instance, red and green, yellow and purple and blue and orange are all complementary colors. (refer to the color wheel below).

Another option would be to use an analogous color palette.
Analogous colors sit next to each other on the color wheel. (refer to the color wheel below).

Choose three colors to formulate your color palette.
More than three colors can feel folksy and too busy. Once you have selected your three colors, use the 60-30-10 rule. 60 percent dominate color, 30 percent secondary color, and 10 percent accent color. This will help you achieve a cohesive look.

Consider contrasting the warm and cool hues on the color spectrum.
Warm colors are yellows to red violets on the color wheel while the cooler colors are blues to greens. (refer to the color wheel below).

Use colors you love.
Color palettes can be created from artwork, accessories, or fabrics. Perhaps, you may have a keepsake that you want to build a color palette around. Any object in your home can be the starting point, be creative and use what you love.

The following are examples of color specific rooms and the psychology behind each color.

cookarchitectural.com
Red: is daring and bold, it commands attention. It is a stimulating color and it heightens the senses.


tobifairley.com
Orange: represents happiness and innovation.


bountifuldecor.com
Yellow: activates memory and stimulates the nervous system. It promotes communication and sparks creativity.

dirkdenisonarchitects.com
Green: represents growth and renewal. It is the most versatile of all the colors therefore, you can use it in any room.

anniesantullidesigns.com
Blue: evokes feelings of calmness. Change the hue temperature and it can become energizing.

rachelreider.com
Purple: is the color of royalty and creativity. It can add richness and drama to any space.

If you would like to learn more about color, then I suggest reading The Psychology of Color by Jeannie Matteucci at HGTV.COM.

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