Choosing a colour for a room must not just be an arbitrary decision. Colours speak to us on a subconscious level, and it is important to use the colour that suits the needs of the room. Choosing the precise colour can have a powerful effect! When considering changing the colour of a room, first look at what the room is used for and what feelings, reactions and perceptions you want experienced in that room. From there, you will be able to choose a colour that will meet your needs. Once you have chosen the colour, then it is time to personalize it with a specific shade or hue.
Blue
Studies have shown the colour blue has been linked with productivity, honesty and authority. Lighter shades of blue have also been associated with lowering blood pressure as well as lowering respiration. Blue is a cooler colour and can also be tied with feelings of serenity and placidity. When using the colour blue, it is great for offices because of its motivating attributes. It is also great for a boardroom, hospital or anywhere ill or sick people are gathering.
Jane’s top colour pick for blue:
Benjamin Moore November Skies, Athabaska, Hale Navy
Green
Green is associated with earth, new growth and new beginnings. It is a colour full of life, inspiration, peace and good health. Studies have also shown that soft shades of green are relaxing to the human eye. Darker shades have been linked to money and therefore greed, power and ambition. Depending on the shade, green is a great colour for offices, family rooms, bedrooms and bathrooms.
Jane’s top colour pick for green:
Benjamin Moore Fernwood Green, Top Soil, Herbes De Provence
Yellow
As yellow is most often associated with the sun and flowers, it is a colour that is bright, cheery and inspiring. It is associated with an increase in positive energy and some studies have linked it to an increase in metabolism. It inspires warmth, energy and confidence. With these great attributes, yellow would be the perfect colour choice for a gym, kitchen or family room.
Jane’s top colour picks for yellow:
Benjamin Moore Weston Flax, Honey Harbor, Dijon
Red
Red is a very strong colour and has substantial feelings associated with it. Red often represents passion and can be very intense. Red has been known to elevate blood pressure and increase energy. Studies have shown that red also increases hunger and appetite while stimulating the mind. Red is a great colour to use for a kitchen, dining room or bedroom.
Jane’s Top Colour Picks for Red:
Benjamin Moore Bonaparte, Sundried Tomato, Louisiana Hot Sauce
Purple
The colour purple is the perfect combination of red and blue and lends itself to the attributes of these two colours. Depending on the shade of purple, it may have more blue or red tones and therefore; will reflect emotions of each colour. Lighter shades of purple are associated with lavender and have be shown to help aid in sleep and are known to be relaxing, settle nervous energy and evoke creativity. Darker shades of purple tend to be associated with royalty and can bring up feelings of pride, wealth and nobility. Purple is a great colour bedrooms and bathrooms
Jane’s Top Colour Picks for Purple:
Benjamin Moore Dark Basalt, Beach Plum
Orange
The colour orange is the most social of all colours. It stimulates conversation, communication, and interaction. Young people are often most attracted to the colour orange. It reflects youth and energy and that is why it is a great choice for anywhere you have or want lots of action, activity and high energy.
Orange is a great choice for a gym, family room, kitchen, or as an accent wall in a child’s bedroom.
Jane’s Top Colour Picks for Orange:
Benjamin Moore Rusty Nail, Georgian Brick or Prairie Lily.
