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Colour Psychology in Interior Design

Have you ever noticed that some home environments can make you feel more relaxed and welcome than others? Although this can be due to other factors, colour psychology might play a larger part in this than you might think. Whether positive or negative, this can help us associate certain emotions with particular colours, and therefore holds the ability to influence a range of design schemes. 

When used in interior design, colour can have a powerful impact on how we feel. This means that when you’re thinking about creating a certain atmosphere, we recommend carefully considering the colours that you can use to help you achieve this. To help you decide which hues will best suit your interiors, read on as we discuss the impact of colour psychology in interior design. 

What is colour theory in interior design?

Although colour theory can be applied to a broad range of areas, in interior design, this refers to the appearance of certain hues and colour combinations. Depending on personal preferences, particular colour pairings can either be viewed as complementary or they can clash against one another in home design. However, if a colour clash isn’t your desired look for your interior, then the colour wheel can be used to create different schemes that correspond with one another, helping to give a useful indication of the hues and tones that work in harmony. Of course, it’s also important to consider how the colours you wish to use work with other furniture and decor that may already be in the room, or that you may be planning on using.

When you’re looking to apply particular colours around the home, we would recommend considering the implications of the colour or hues you’re planning to pair together. Think about how you interpret the meanings of these, while taking into account their tints, saturations and tones. Colour meanings can be different for each person based on their experiences and therefore ties in to colour psychology, which is how certain colours and tones can make us feel. 

How to use colour psychology in interior design 

As mentioned above, colour psychology focuses on the meanings of individual colours and how these can evoke certain emotions in us. Although this area is consistently under research, there are numerous studies concluding that colour can influence how we act and even our physical health. Most people want to decorate their home in a way that will make them feel content and relaxed, so using colours that align with this help us feel more comfortable in our own space.

If you’re looking to decorate a particular room within your home, basing your colour choices on the room you’re planning to use these in can help to significantly play into the aesthetic of the space. To help influence your decision, we’ve listed some colours and their most common implications below. 

  • Red - While this is often associated with older homes, recent demands for statement colour schemes have witnessed this hue soar in popularity. A bold colour with the connotations of energy and power, red is good for using in offices or other spaces where you may require a productivity boost. 
  • Blue - With a calming effect, blue is good for using in bedrooms, helping you feel relaxed after a long day. A versatile colour, both light and deeper hues of blue are seen to have similar connotations. 
  • Yellow - An uplifting colour with positive associations, yellow is perfect for using in rooms with large windows and plenty of natural light. It’s most commonly used in kitchens and bathrooms. 
  • Purple - A less common choice, purple is viewed as a more distinctive colour choice for modern homes. However, if incorporated well, it can make a significant difference. With connotations in charm, luxury and sophistication, this colour can impress your guests. 
  • Green - With contemporary home interior trends swaying towards sage greens, this colour connects us with nature, promoting restorative properties and helping create a space for us to unwind in. 

  • If you’re looking to stay up to date with interior trends, neutral colours have also seen a high demand in recent years, with many homes drawing on greys and whites. These colours are well-known for their versatility and ability to blend with other hues within the home. If you’re searching for more inspiration on the latest interior styles, read our bedroom interior trends blog. 

    What is the best colour for a bedroom? 

    If you’re looking to decorate your bedroom interior, our silk bedding experts at Gingerlily can help. We recommend choosing a colour that evokes a calming effect, such as a light shade of blue, pink, or white as these colours are known for their calming and restorative purposes. 

    Bold and overwhelming colours should be avoided, as there is some research that suggests they can make it difficult to fall asleep. Many look to their bedroom as a serene space to return to at the end of each day, so designing it with this in mind can help you create a better space.



    Gingerlily Classic Ivory & Silk Black Bedding Set - from £108.93


    The ivory and black silk bedding set offers a versatile backdrop to other bedroom accessories. We would recommend using lighter coloured pillows to help add interest to your interior and create a tranquil atmosphere. 

    With an elegant and minimal design, this classic bedding set is complete with a simple black border. Blending a luxurious feel with an effortless and contemporary style, the border offers a refined edge to help you elevate your bedroom design scheme with a touch of elegance and sophistication. 



    If you’re looking for a suitable colour palette for your bedroom, when used correctly, combining blue, lilac and white can help create an idyllic interior. In the image above, our design experts have styled the blue and purple cushions against the white for an effect that can help add interest to the room. The space has been styled using the new luxurious pillowcases and bolsters from our exclusive Gingerlily collaboration with leading interior designer, Sheila Bridges.



    Gingerlily x Sheila Bridges Harlem Toile Summerhill Blue Pillowcase - £75.00

    Carefully designed using an iconic Harlem Toile pattern, the summerhill blue pillowcase is an essential part of this collection. Featuring intricate illustrations drawn against a relaxing blue backdrop, this silk blue pillow provides an elegant and calming addition to any sleeping space 

     

    Summerhill Blue Silk Duvet Cover - from £400.00

    If you’re looking for a more calming colour to use in your bedroom, this blue and white bedding collection exudes relaxation and style. Designed in an attractive blue tone, this luxury silk blue duvet is finished with a subtle white border to help add that extra finishing touch to your room. 

    Create the perfect bedroom colour scheme with Gingerlily

    Helping you incorporate a relaxing colour scheme into your space, the wide range of styles available at Gingerlily can help you create a calm and tranquil environment to retreat to at the end of each day. Shop our luxurious bedding collections and create the perfect interior space.