How to colour your house happy

Psychology could help you create your perfect living space - colour psychology, that is. Colours have an effect on all people, sometimes visibly and sometimes unconsciously. People have favourite colours, people associate coloured clothing with certain situations, and colour has an effect on people's mood. So before you re-decorate or take to your home with a paint brush, think a little deeper about what kind of mood you want to create with your colour pallet.   BLACK: It screams all things power, depth, moodiness, and sophistication. The word "scream" is used aptly, too - black is intense, and (like red) should be used as a tool to create the exact vibe you want... Black curtains against white walls for elegance, black marble benches for sophistication?   BLUE: This colour is fantastic for sleeping or relaxation places. Blue brings feelings of calmness and serenity. It promotes inner peace. People attracted to blue are usually cool and collected.   [caption id="attachment_4741" align="alignleft" width="690"] Images courtesy of Behance (L) and Bloglovin (R)[/caption]   RED: This colour stimulates us, without a doubt. It is sensual and often associated with confidence. Use red sparingly to create bold statements - think feature walls or art works.   [caption id="attachment_4742" align="alignleft" width="690"] Image courtesy of Behance[/caption]   GREEN: This colour creates a sense of belonging, and (for some reason) people who prefer green usually put emphasis on security and relationships. For this reason, don't be afraid to use green in a nursery - surround your little one with the colour that speaks of security   ORANGE: This colour is for all the extraverts out there. People drawn to orange are the ones who love to be surrounded by people. Use it wisely in a room where people congregate - the dining room, the living room, meeting rooms etc   [caption id="attachment_4739" align="alignleft" width="690"] Images courtesy of Mydomain (L) and myscandanavianhome.blogspot.com (R)[/caption]   GREY: Being the in between colour between black and white, grey is the perfect neutral. This colour promotes balance and calm. It is detatched, which can promote resolutions, letting go, and relaxation – suitable for a bedroom, or living room.   PURPLE: This mystical, spiritual colour should be used for relaxation and inner-exploration. Bathrooms, swimming and spa areas, outdoor gardens - where people can create an inner utopia.   WHITE: It symbolises innocence, purity, and often perfectionism. Use white for illuminating spaces, creating light and a minimalistic-come-elegant approach - think crisp white furniture and polished concrete floors, for example   [caption id="attachment_4740" align="alignleft" width="690"] Images courtesy of Bloglovin[/caption]   PINK: This colour is for the sheltered and innocent - those who are eager for acceptance. It is often found in young girls' bedrooms for a reason, but don't limit it to a tiny-tot's boudoir.   [caption id="attachment_4737" align="alignleft" width="690"] Image courtesy of Home Bunch[/caption]   TURQUOISE: It promotes emotional balance. Perhaps make use of it in spaces where this sometimes lacks... In offices, for example.   This holistic approach to home decorating can be a positive tool to uplift you and your family. This article first appeared on www.zohiinteriors.com.au/blog and is reprinted here with permission.