After exploring warm colours in the Murphy Homes ‘Psychology of colour’ series, we will next venture to the realm of cool colours.
How do COOL COLOURS (BLUES and GREENS) make you feel? Some research has supported the idea that colours can have psychological effects.
Blue is a colour often found in nature, such as the pale blue of a daytime sky or the rich dark blue of a deep pool of water. They are perceived as cool to touch and evoke safety and calmness which contrasts with the attention demanding warm colours associated with the sun and fire. It is for this reason, perhaps, that people often describe the colour blue as calm and serene.
Yet beware – As a cool colour, blue can sometimes seem icy, distant, or even cold.
Blues and greens can also boast variety in their colour personality. By simply adding another colour to the mix, the basic blue or green can soften, brighten or darken with ease and so affect your mood.
Light, airy blue tones help reduce stress while the powerful bright electric blues, aquas and turquoises offer up an energy boost alongside their calming persona. They can invigorate the mind and add a fresh perspective which can work throughout the home as mood enhancers.
Different shades of blue can create a totally different feel. The room on the left has been painted in a mood enhancing turquoise while the right-side image evokes tranquillity.
The olive-green bedroom below shows a different aspect of cool and calm. Lime green is a fun colour and is suited to an upbeat décor.
Don’t be afraid to use ‘cool’ colours when decorating, but it is paramount to select the correct shade for your application.
