Skip to content
Red interior design example
Interior Design Practice

The Psychology of Color

IDI Editorial Team2 min read

Introduction

Warm colors such as yellow, orange and red tend to make us feel energetic and happy while cool colors such as blue, green and purple can be calming and soothing. But there is much more to the effects of color.

Red

Red can make a room feel more intimate but it can also perk up a room with bold, confidence.

Orange

Orange adds warmth and can stimulate your appetite. It creates motivation and impulse.

Yellow

Yellow lifts your spirits and will make a room feel cozy. It adds a feeling of energy and fun.

Orange interior design example

Pink

Pink is playful, but can be sensitive. It always adds a touch of whimsy.

Blue

Blue creates a calming and relaxing atmosphere, while creating ambition and perspective.

Pink interior design example

Purple

Purple can be very dramatic and exciting along with distinguished and creative.

Green

Green represents renewal, growth and stability. It is calming and relaxing.

Purple interior design example

Neutrals

Many neutrals have their own effects. Gray creates a calm, sophisticated, timeless, practical feel and can be warm or cool. Brown is the slowdown, relax, dependable choice that also creates a rugged, rustic feel.

Neutral colors interior design example

Tags

colorinterior design

Start Your Design Journey

Inspired to pursue interior design? Explore our accredited programs and take the first step toward a creative career.