The psychology of colour is based on the mental and emotional effects that colour has on people. This belief has been researched extensively to discover what we feel when we are exposed to different colours on the spectrum. 

From a business perspective, this research has led to decades of businesses targeting consumers through choice of colour. 

Here, Mark Brown, Owner of Lismark Office Products discusses how you can increase output, inspire creative thinking, and promote harmony at work with colours.

Blue

Studies show that employees are most productive and confident in offices with blue colour schemes. The colour has a calming effect whilst promoting trust and communication. Its ability to reduce stress makes it an ideal choice for busy office environments. 

Red

Red has been proven to energise humans by increasing both the heart rate and respiration. Because of its energising qualities, the colour is commonly used where physical activity is required. Splashes of the colour in furniture are more than adequate - too much can incite feelings of anger and hostility.

Green 

Green has a strong mental connection with the environment and growth. This colour can easily be added to an office by adding potted plants and trees. Green tones are ideal for creating a calming atmosphere.

Yellow

Yellow is a bright colour which raises positivity and happiness meaning it’s effective in areas where teamwork is needed. What’s more, yellow encourages focus, innovation and optimism, all necessary in a creative environment. 

However, like red, too much yellow can have a detrimental effect. An abundance of yellow can lead to anxiety and people losing their temper easily. The colour is most suited to a break-out zone for brainstorming ideas, or any creative space that is only used sparingly.

White

If natural light is short on supply, white can create a sense of space. White walls can complement a feature wall of colour or accent furniture extremely well but a uniformly white office can be dull and have a negative effect on productivity.

Advice: 

• High saturation colours are more stimulating than low saturation ones
• Stick to a couple of colours for each room; don’t have a rainbow-themed office space
• Red is good for areas of negotiation
• Yellow helps encourage focus and direction
• Small colourful additions such as plants, colourful stationery and soft furnishings such as rugs, cabinets and bins can make a big difference
• If you want neutral-coloured furniture, a colour statement can be made on the floor or on a feature wall