The psychology of colour pt 1

The Psychology of COLOUR

(Part 1)

We all have colour preferences and colour dislikes. Extensive studies since the 1930s have been carried out on colour and personality in order for a better understanding why individuals differ in their responses to different colours. The work of psychologist Mark Luscher has been adapted and developed for use by psychologists and human resources departments worldwide.

Here's a brief run down of the colour uses and effect:

YELLOW:

• Associated with intellect and power
• Cheerful, radiant and warm
• Suggests sunlight, lifts spirits
• Most visible of spectrum (coupled with black is particularly noticable- warning of danger in nature, i.e. wasps, bees- and in industry hazards, i.e. hazardous wastes, yellow hard hat)
• Most likely to cause strain on eyes: Babies said to cry ( don't paint a babies room yellow), couples known to fight more in yellow kitchens. 

Ideally to be used in hallways as its know as a transit room, whereby, people are passing through and not lingering, hence once entered home feels warm and cheerful without putting a strain on the eye.

RED:

• Power
• Exciting and bold
• Longest wavelength in spectrum
• Attracts attention
• Ultiamte in power dressing- red ties, red lipstick, red dress, red shoes - or red shoe soles ;)
• Signifies life and living: blood
• Passion and intensity

In interiors red promotes vitality, courage, self confidence and stability and is also an appetite stimulant (as reason why used in restaurant table cloths). Blood pressure and pulses are elevated as well as brain waves. Used in dining rooms is ideal as not only are the effects of stimulating appetite but hopefully also good conversations.

BLUE:

• The colour most preferred by men
• Calmness and serenity (tests prove it lowers blood pressure, pulse and respiration rates)
• Indicates desire for peace and order (associated with water)
• Trust ans consistance
• Faith and nobility
• Conservative and reserved

Office spaces are and ideal choice, as it evokes calmness and is the most productive colour. However, its a comfortable colour and can be used just about everywhere. Looks beautiful with its complementary colours: orange - pale orange and coral with lighter values of blue, stronger oranges with darker shades of blue.