Understanding the Psychology of Colours in Interior Designing

B] Impact of Different Colours on Interiors

Warm Colours:

1. Red

A bold and powerful colour that stimulates excitement makes it an outstanding choice for spaces meant for social interaction. Red is an ideal colour for restaurant interiors because it amplifies hunger levels, thus making restaurants more appetising to customers. The intense red hue Pantone 18-1664 Fiery Red establishes dramatic flair, whereas mellow red tones develop cosy interior environments. We all know how colour affects and influences our mood in interior design, and red creates an intense visual experience yet becomes overpowering when it dominates the space. Hence, combining it with a calming colour tone, such as white or beige, is best to balance the space.

2. Orange

Another prominent vibrant colour is orange, which symbolises positive energy and warmth. The colour works superbly for both working areas, recreation zones, and fitness facilities because it enhances creativity and generates enthusiasm. The reddish-orange shade Pantone 16-1459 Mandarin Orange brings an energetic mood without overwhelming the design. Orange is one of the best colours for home interiors, and it is used in bedrooms with complementary tints that tone down the extreme effects of the colour. Moderate use of orange adds both invitation and dynamic energy to interior spaces.

3. Yellow

The colour yellow is synonymous with sunshine, thereby spreading cheerfulness and optimism. Colour is also associated with intellect and prosperity due to its close association with gold. Yellow is recommended for the kitchen, dining areas, hallways and bathrooms. The colour automatically uplifts your mood and makes the room feel bright and sunny. The bright yellow Pantone 13-0647 Illuminating adds a level of sophistication to the interior design, especially when paired with muted colours like grey or white.

Cool Colours:

1. Blue

Blue is among the most calming colours in the colour palette for interior design. People love blue universally because of its strong ability to promote tranquillity and slow down the heart rate. Aquatic shades of blue, such as Pantone 14-4318 Sky Blue and 13-4409 TCX Blue Glow, have a healing effect on the mind. Blue is the only colour with an array of positive effects with little to no negative effects on the psyche. It functions best in areas that demand rest and attention, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, or even your office space. It is one of the best colours for office interiors, enhancing concentration and making you productive.

2. Green

When people see the colour green, they think of nature. The calming nature of green creates an ideal environment for wellness spaces and is beneficial for bedrooms, living rooms, and relaxed areas. This colour forms a natural connection with renewal elements to provide an experience of inner peace. Green is an extremely versatile colour, and different shades of green promote different emotions. It can be used in various shades throughout your space, where you can use lighter shades like Pantone 14-0232 Jade Lime on the walls and contrast dark shades of green with plants. The colour works well in spaces that promote relaxation and comfort.

3. Purple

People have linked purple to royalty, luxury and artistic expression. This colour adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the interiors and works well in bedrooms, creative studios and boutique places. The light purple tone of lavender generates serene comfort, while deeper purple variation like Pantone 19-3722 Mulberry Purple delivers an elegant, luxurious feeling. Your space becomes refined and artistic when it is combined with neutral colours, or pops of yellow are added, as both colours are on the opposite side of the colour wheel and complement each other.

Neutral & Earthy Tones:

1. White

The colour white is a universal neutraliser. It functions as a fundamental element in modern and minimalist designs because it contributes an open feeling along with a minimalistic look. When reflected light enters the space, it causes areas to seem bigger and better-lit. People often select Pantone 11-0601 Bright White because it makes the space look clean and uncluttered. Builders find white especially useful because it offers various options in both decor selection and choice of accent colours. You can opt for gold, grey or yellow for a luxurious design and red, orange and green for a pop of colour.

2. Grey

Grey serves as an elegant neutral hue that works with either warm or cool elements. Interior designers use this hue in modern designs because it adds elegance and sophistication to the design plans. Due to its refined elegance grey functions perfectly as an office-design color and a design element in contemporary living spaces.

3. Brown

The warm characteristics of Brown make it excellent for promoting lively and nature-focused interior designs. The colour is ideal for traditional rustic design because it helps establish a foundational and relaxing environment. The Pantone Colour of the Year 2025, 17-1230, Mocha Mousse is a chocolatey brown shade that creates a harmonious and relaxing space. It is one of the best colours for office interiors as it promotes concentration while maintaining a sophisticated aesthetic.

4. Black

Black has always always been the colour of elegance and versatility. It signifies simplicity and functionality. This colour works best in modern interior design and architecture. While on a psychological front, an all-black room can be overwhelming and gloomy, pairing it with vibrant colours like red, white, blue, gold, or almost anything else provides an excellent contrast.