Decor Color Choices Can Be Psychological

Although choosing a room’s color is highly personal, it’s worth noting that studies have linked specific color tones to psychological behaviors. In fact, many doctors, scientists and design experts believe that certain colors can actually influence your mood or motivation.

The following list provides a general interpretation of commonly held views about how we perceive color. It may help you decide on the colors you’ll use in your next interior painting or decorating project. While some suggested connections may seem obvious, others might surprise you.

White: cleanliness, purity, innocence. Yellow: concentration, attentiveness, optimism. Orange: abundance, expressiveness, passion. Red: emotion, creativity, appetite. Purple: status, opulence, indulgence. Blue: trust, confidence, productivity. Green: tranquility, comfort, nourishment. Brown: honesty, sincerity, simplicity. Black: contemplation, dedication, commitment.

Of course, subtle differences in hues and shades can evoke different emotional responses. As a result, complementary colors can sometimes seem to conflict with the expected psychological response to your primary selection. So, despite all the available scientific information, you should consider your instincts as well.