Words Orna O’reilly
Colour has a powerful influence on how a space feels, affecting mood, atmosphere and even how interiors are used. With so many shades and tones available, it can be difficult to know where to begin. One of the simplest and most effective ways to understand colour is by understanding the colour wheel.
A simple colour wheel is a useful tool for identifying tone, shade, warmth, coolness and the other variables of a colour scheme. Red, yellow and blue are the primary colours, so called because they cannot be created by mixing any others. Black and white could also fall into the same category, but as they are technically non-colours, are not included.
The secondary colours are produced by mixing two primary colours. For example, red and yellow make orange; yellow and blue make green; red and blue produce purple. The secondary colours, therefore, are orange, green and purple.
The colour wheel is then divided further by mixing those that are side by side, producing a ‘warm’ side and a ‘cool’ side. Red, orange and yellow form the ‘warm’ side, while blue, green and purple make up the ‘cool’ side. Red with a touch of purple is considered ‘cool’, while red with a touch of orange is ‘warm’. This provides a way to subtly warm or cool the atmosphere of a room.
Basic colour schemes
• Monochromatic: The use of one colour only, for example, a room decorated in various tones and shades of cream. Such a scheme needs clever use of pattern and texture to maintain interest. It is a calm and tranquil way to decorate a formal sitting room or bedroom.
• Neutral: A scheme with an absence of colour, using black, grey and white with tones of grey or beige. It works well in minimalist interiors, especially where chrome and glass are present. This type of scheme makes a good backdrop for displaying modern art.
• Close-colour or harmonious: A restful and elegant scheme achieved when the main colour is matched with one of the colours beside it on the wheel. For example, a yellow room with yellow-green or yellow-orange accents. A crisp white or pale cream is essential to bring this scheme to life, whether in trim or accessories.
• Three-colour scheme: The most common approach. One colour is chosen for the walls, a second for large furniture, and a third for accent pieces such as cushions or throws. Strong colours work best as accents, as they have greater impact when used cleverly and with restraint.
• Contrast: Created by using colours opposite each other on the wheel; for example, red with green or orange with blue. This straightforward, unsophisticated scheme can be very effective in a child’s bedroom or playroom.
Don’t be lured into choosing a paint colour just because you like the name. A good rule of thumb is that the busiest living areas of a home should have the largest areas in colours which are the most neutral, with the stronger colours reserved for furnishings and accent pieces. Large areas painted in a strong colour can quickly become overwhelming.
When combining colours, patterns and textures will inevitably come into play. In modern homes that lack internal architectural detail, the right blend of colour, texture and pattern, balanced with appropriate furniture and soft furnishings, can transform a space.
The psychology of colour
Red is a strong colour to live with and best employed in rooms which are not used for long periods. It is
an excellent colour for a dining room as it stimulates the senses. However, as it can actually raise one’s blood pressure, it is not suitable for use in areas where calmness is required, such as bedrooms or main living areas.
Blue, by contrast, has a calming and focusing effect. It is said to promote clear thinking, and studies suggest that high IQ scores are often recorded in rooms which were painted blue.
Pink has the opposite effect. Overexposure is claimed to dull concentration, and unless balanced with contrasting colours, it can appear bland.
Green is associated with nature, health, healing and calm. It can be particularly effective for hyperactive children, as pale cucumber-greens are soothing. However, as it is also linked with passivity, it may not be the best choice for a study or work space.
Yellow, the colour of sunshine, brings vitality to almost any area. It is especially effective in halls and children’s playrooms. In dining spaces, however, it should lean towards the warm side of the spectrum, free of green undertones. In bedrooms, soft creamy yellows are best.
- ‘Interiors Colour Guide: How to Mix, Match and Choose Wisely’ is published in Anthology Volume 24. Read more features from this volume or buy it now.
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