Color is the Character of a Space

Why do we always specify the finishes at the last stage and in a rush? Aren’t the finishes just  as important as the design and layout? Colors have very important rules in every space, whether it’s residential or commercial. They can be a tool to help in achieving the conceptual goals, but some architects tend to do without them until the last minute. Whether we’re working in the field or back in an undergraduate design studio, color is important and should play a bigger role in what we design.

The color of a room has the ability to affect how you perceive the size of the room. Color also has the ability to influence the temperature of a room. You can change the mood and occupant behavior by changing the color themes. Using different colors or different patterns of color can even affect how the user circulates through the room as well as how quickly they move in the room. Colors and patterns are what create the character of a space.

Any color will behave differently in relation with other colors and shapes. You can experience color in abnormal ways depending on which colors you place together and how you situate them. For example, in a yellow room, you may not notice any yellow objects. However, if you were suddenly in a red room instead, all those yellow objects would begin to stand out too much against the primary color. Choosing a color is very tricky. A color may cause a certain reaction in one person, but may evoke a very different reaction in someone else. This depends on many different things like someone’s personal preferences, what mood they’re in, how well their vision functions, and even cultural backgrounds.

Find Out What Specific Colors Convey

Warm Colors: To reflect passion, happiness, enthusiasm, and energy.

Red: A powerful accent color. Power. Passion. Energetic. Elegant.

Orange: Commands attention. Friendly and inviting, and less in-your-face.

Bright Yellow: Sense of happiness and cheerfulness.

Dark Yellows & Gold-Hued Yellows: Antique

Cool Colors: Calming, relaxing, reserved, professionalism.

Green: New beginning. Growth. Renewal. Energizing. Stable.

Blue: Calmness. Responsibility. Peace. Spiritual. The shade determines whether the space will be calming or energizing.

Purple: Royalty. Creativity. Imagination. Romance. Luxury.

Neutral Colors: Backdrop in design. Depend on their surrounding colors

Black: Power. Elegance. Formality. Edgy.

White: Purity. Cleanliness. Virtue. Simplicity.

Gray: Conservative. Formal. Modern. Professional. Sophisticated.

Brown: Warmth. Wholesome. Dependable. Reliable.

Cream: Calming. Warm. Elegant. Sophisticated.

Beige: Conservative.