COLOUR THERAPY

We react to colour both consciously and subconsciously, and most of us are quite clear about the colours we like – those that make us respond positively. But what about the colours we dislike? Do colours subconsciously influence our state-of-mind and our emotions or is it just a taste issue? Are the connotations and interpretations of colour deeply rooted in history and superstition?

Colour Therapy

Let’s take a look at some examples:

RED

Positive: Love, passion, daring, strong, aggressive, independent courageous, energetic and warm

Negative: Danger, insulting, blood-like, intensity, pressure.

Whatever you think about red, I’m sure you’ll agree this kitchen makes a really bold statement.


This bedroom is similarly striking but manages to present a warm and welcome impression.


YELLOW

Positive: Optimism, confidence, self-recognition, and creativity.

Negative: Frightening. Brings about depression, anxiety and despair.

A clever offset of strong yellow against this primary white really works.




GREEN

Positive: Symbolises health, balance, relaxation, and youthfulness. In certain cultures it symbolises peace, and for Muslim’s it is a sacred colour.

Negative: Jealousy and scheming.

Green is certainly a brave colour to use, especially dark green. The strong pattern somehow mutes the effect of the green on white.

For a more subtle use of green, take a look at this study. It has a far more subdued and relaxing feel to it.


BLUE

Positive: Intellect, confidence, peace, justice, devotion, thought and consistency.

Negative: Cold and uninviting; lacking in emotion and ambition. It can trigger feelings of depression and doubt.

Dark blue can help people to think more clearly, whilst light blue can be calming and help you to concentrate in peace.

This blue interior is complimented by fabrics and ornaments, and offset by the use of white, light browns and cream. Because the room is light and airy the bold blue really works.

WHITE

Positive: Pure, sterile, clean, perfect, honest, simple, good, and neutral.

Negative: Symbolises death because of the connotation of emptiness, ghosts, and shrouds.

I really like the clean, fresh feel of this room, with its minimal use of bold colours.


GREY

Positive: Wise, mature, unselfish, calm, and balanced.

Negative: Slow, old, weak, exhausted, and even dirty.

Greys are very in trend at the moment and can be used with a variety of colours to spark them off. This colour used wisely can look very classical.

BLACK

Positive: Memorable, elegant, charming, strong, majestic, humble.

Negative: Empty, sad, threatening, oppressive, despair, death.

Unlike reflective white, black absorbs all colours. With black, all the energy that comes will be absorbed.

Black has a certain atmosphere to it when it is worn - like a little black dress. Used wisely in an interior it will create the wow factor that you desire.