The use of color in interior design.

Everyone knows the effect that weather has on his/her state of mind – gray, cloudy days are associated with a depressed state of mind; bright, sunny days evoke happy energetic thoughts; moon glow evokes feelings of romance. Color has just as great an effect on our psyche as the weather. We are surrounded by references: “green with envy,” “in the pink,” “blue with cold,” “a gray day.” The psychology of color is actually a course of study at many universities. So, why are so many people afraid to use color in their homes, and why are we afraid of color?

To vanquish the fear of the use of color, people only need to understand the psychological effect that different colors have on them. Red is known to stimulate appetite, so it is an obvious choice for a dining room. Since red stimulates, it is probably not the best choice for a bedroom. Blue and green are fresh and calming, so they are perfect for a bedroom. Yellow and orange are energizing, so they work well in rooms where your energy may need boosting – like the kitchen. Tone down orange and you have terra cotta, an ideal office color – energizing but not as bright as red that would be difficult to live with all day long.

Far too many homes are decorated with various shades of beige, taupe being the “beige du jour.” A new beige being touted is “string” – the off-white of twine. Subtle, muted off-white (like taupe and beige) are fine for walls and woodwork, and are easy to live with if you want to be safe. But contrast and enliven them with bright highlights in the fabrics in the room. You might consider bright rugs, paintings or ceramics and lamps. The overall effect will be airy and soothing, yet the brighter colors will bring in your personality and be your signature on your home. Better yet, have some fun and put some color on your walls or ceilings, and remember, it’s only paint and you can change it.

Strong colors are best confined to rooms you are in less – hallways, dining rooms, and powder rooms. No one spends much time in these rooms so you can afford to be bold. Just because some of these areas are small, do not be afraid to use color. Accent the dark colors with a splash of a bright white, yellow or whatever goes. Pretend you’re a chef – a pinch of coral, a dash of turquoise, and a dollop of yellow may be just the recipe for your room. The important thing is the quantities. Decide on your main color and add carefully selected accents.

Consider the textures of your colors. A bright red dining room could be toned down with a brown glaze so its vibrancy is burnished to a deeper tone. Bright yellows can be used as a color wash over a white base to tone them down. Colors can be layered for an interesting effect. An inexpensive piece of furniture can first be painted a deep blue and then over-painted in yellow. After sanding away the topcoat on the corners and edges back to the first coat, you can achieve an antiqued look.

Color schemes can be chosen from a multitude of sources. You may have a favorite painting you pull colors from for a room, or what about that piece of pottery or a rug you cherish? The possibilities are limitless. Complex color schemes can be built up from just one item.

Most importantly, have fun with color. How many seaside ports have you ever been to that are only in shades of beige – or how many beautiful sunsets would you describe as taupe? Color is a free gift given for us all to use. Have fun with color and be bold.