Humans can see about one million shades of colour. Interestingly, each holds a different meaning and plays a different role in our moods, feelings, thoughts, and behaviour.
Because of the effect of colour on both our minds and body, it has become an essential component in interior design- especially bedroom design.
Understanding the basics of colour psychology can help you choose a colour scheme that looks appealing and creates a calming, soothing, destressing environment that enables restful sleep.
So, how can you use colour psychology to turn your bedroom into a relaxing oasis?
1. Find a Focal or Dominant Colour
Start by selecting a colour that will be the main focus of your bedroom. This colour will set the mood and tone for the entire space.
Another good start is asking yourself how you want your bedroom to feel. Do you want a warm, cosy, intimate, or a roomy, airy, serene, bright feel?
However, apart from your personal preferences, it is vital to consider the colour psychology, climate and the amount of natural light your room receives.
Let’s look at a few options for focal colours:
Blue
Blue is one of the most calming colours, and it is associated with serenity, peace, and tranquillity. It is said to be able to lower blood pressure, slow heart rate, and reduce anxiety.
Therefore, blue is the perfect colour choice for a bedroom as it can promote restful sleep and help you wake up refreshed.
However, the shade of blue you choose is essential. To get the most out of its calming effect, opt for lighter, airier hues of blue
Green
Green is magical from a colour psychology perspective. According to colour psychology, it promotes calmness, balance, growth, restoration, and harmony. Its refreshing colour can breathe life into even the dullest space.
Deep shades of green like emerald or forest green can create an ambience of elegance and grandeur, making it a great colour option for bedrooms.
White
White is one of the most versatile colours. In colour psychology, it denotes tranquillity, serenity, freshness, and purity. Recent minimalist trends have made white walls and furniture very popular.
Although white can make your bedroom seem more prominent, too much can result in a cold, bland, and sterile look. Hence, consider mixing white with other colours to create focal points, warmth, and interest.
Black
Black never goes out of fashion. In colour psychology, it signifies power, drama and mystery.
Yes, too much black can make your bedroom look small and dark, but if executed correctly, the result can be chic and fashionable. Black works best when used in contrast with white or lighter colours and in rooms with a lot of natural light.
Red
Designers usually avoid using red in bedroom design as colour psychology suggests it is a powerful colour that signifies energy, danger, and excitement.
However, red can give your bedroom a passionate and intimate feel. Look for lighter shades of red, such as blush, rose, and coral pink, as these can feel restful and peaceful.
Purple
According to colour psychology, purple suggests royalty and is associated with luxury, wealth, extravagance, and creativity.
It is also a calming and soothing colour that can reduce stress and anxiety. Lighter shades of purple, like lavender, can create a soft or airy feel, and deep shades, like plum and wine, can add sensuality, sophistication and mystery to a room. Hence, purple can be an excellent option for bedrooms.
Grey
Colour psychology associates grey with strength, determination, and willpower. However, it is not a colour for everyone, as it can calm some and depress others.
Nevertheless, grey can effectively be used to neutralise or contrast bright colours. It can add elegance, style and sophistication to the look and feel of your bedroom. Like black, grey works best in rooms with plenty of natural light.
2. Choose Your Accents
After choosing the focal colour, adding accent colours to your room is the next step. Accent colours are normally bold colours that add visual interest to your room.
Accents can create an exciting contrast with the dominant colour and can be included in the design through accessories such as throw cushions, curtains, artwork, or furniture.
From a colour psychology standpoint, be mindful of not choosing accent colours that clash with the focal colour, as this will affect the room's overall look, mood, and atmosphere.
A good rule of thumb when choosing accent colours is to consider colours opposite the dominant colour on the colour wheel. For instance, if your dominant colour is blue, the opposite colour on the wheel is orange, which is a great accent colour.
Plants and wooden furniture also make great accents that suit any colour scheme.
3. Lighting is Crucial
Besides colour psychology, lighting can significantly impact how colours are perceived and experienced in a room and, therefore, is essential.
Bright and vivid lights can create a vibrant and exciting ambience, while dim or muted lights can help calm and relax.
When deciding on lighting, it is helpful to consider the intensity of the dominant colour and the desired look-feel. Natural light is ideal, but if the room is dark, table lamps or floor lamps with warm light can create a cosy and comfortable feel.
To sum up
Incorporating colour psychology can significantly impact the look and feel of your bedroom. Focal colours, accents, and lighting can create a calming, relaxing or invigorating atmosphere that will allow you to rest and recharge.
However, it is essential to remember that no room should have only warm or only cool colours. If you want a cosy feel, use warm colours for the dominant scheme with cool-coloured elements and vice versa.
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