How do colours influence us in the workplace?

What is Colour Psychology?

The field of colour psychology explores how colours impact our psychological reactions and how variables such as age and cultural influences our responses to colour. Researchers in colour psychology also investigate the various meanings and associations colours may carry. Additionally, we will delve into emotional reactions to colour, elements affecting colour preferences, the effects of colour on physiological responses, how colours can shape behaviours, the potential influence of colours on mental well-being, the impact of colour on productivity, how colours enhance overall wellness, and the utilisation of colours to enhance design and safety in both work and home environments.

The art of office colour psychology involves purposefully incorporating colours in interior design to impact emotions, perceptions, and behaviours. When designing workspaces, it is crucial to delve into how colours can enhance productivity and uplift employees' spirits.

Colours role in the office

Workplace colour psychology serves as a valuable tool for interior designers when creating office spaces. Designers aim to select colours that establish a welcoming, cozy, and uplifting work environment where employees feel comfortable. Optimal office colours should aid in managing anxiety, reducing stress, boosting productivity, and enhancing focus and concentration. Colours are categorised into warm and cool tones based on their psychological impacts. Warm colours like red, orange, and yellow are linked to positivity, energy, and excitement, yet if used too intensively, they may provoke feelings of anger and frustration. On the other hand, cool colours such as blue, green, and purple are associated with feelings of serenity, relaxation, and concentration.

Red

Red is commonly linked with boldness and confidence. When incorporated in work settings, the colour red symbolises passion and energy, sparking creativity. It also brings warmth to environments, making it ideal for boosting morale in dynamic workplaces.

Nevertheless, an excess of red in the office could overwhelm and trigger intense emotions such as anger or frustration. Therefore, it's advisable to use red sparingly in the workplace, like on accent pieces in meeting rooms, to promote enthusiasm and liveliness. 

Blue

Blue, a versatile colour, represents reliability and can stimulate intellectual thinking. Experts suggest that incorporating blue into an office setting can foster a serene and steady atmosphere, aiding employees in maintaining focus and productivity throughout the day. Furthermore, the calming nature of blue enhances creativity.

Its connotation of stability and trustworthiness makes it ideal for reception areas, establishing a positive initial impression with both clients and staff.

For areas such as meeting rooms, introducing blue can encourage collaboration and enhance productivity. However, it's essential to note that darker shades of blue might evoke feelings of sadness, while very cool tones could create a sense of coldness and unwelcomeness in a space.

White

White is commonly associated with cleanliness, freshness, and modernity. Applying a white coat of paint in a workspace can create a sense of openness by visually extending the floors and ceilings, as well as broadening the walls. This colour choice can also enhance the brightness and welcoming atmosphere of cramped or dimly lit offices. Utilising white in communal areas like meeting spaces, lobbies, or collaborative zones can promote a sense of unity and security.

For those opting for white walls, it is advisable to introduce warm colours to maintain a welcoming and cozy environment. Consider incorporating your brand colours on an accent wall or introducing vibrant furniture pieces to achieve a harmonious balance in your office decor.

Black

When considering office colour psychology, black is often linked to control, power, luxury, and elegance. It conveys formality, professionalism, and seriousness. However, it's advisable to use black moderately as it can absorb natural light. Employing it as an accent to enhance other colours can maintain a balance between luxury and comfort. To integrate black into the workspace, consider using it on furniture, wall art, decor pieces, and light fixtures.

Green

Green is a calming colour that is often associated with harmonising the mind, body, and emotions. Similar to blue, green is linked to creativity and efficiency, making it a great choice for office environments. To introduce green into your workspace, you can add plants, paint an accent wall, or opt for green furniture.

Consider transforming your workspace into a biophilic office to incorporate green elements. This concept involves bringing nature indoors by including features like potted plants and maximising natural light and fresh air in the office. A biophilic office setting enhances employee well-being, increases productivity, and reduces stress levels.

Yellow

Incorporating touches of yellow in the workplace can evoke happiness, positivity, and optimism, enhancing creativity, motivation, and fostering teamwork. Yellow is ideal for areas like meeting rooms, training rooms, and communal spaces where collaboration and brainstorming occur. When combined with cool and neutral tones, yellow serves as a great accent colour. However, experts suggest using it in moderation as excessive yellow may lead to eyestrain and frustration. Overuse of yellow can be overwhelming and may result in feelings of annoyance and irritation.

Orange

Orange is often associated with happiness, approachability, and achievement. This vibrant colour aligns with the current trend of bold colours in office decor. Known as a sociable hue, it enhances communication, teamwork, and collaboration in the workplace.

While it can uplift mood, inspire creativity, and boost energy like other warm colours, it also has ties to feelings of frustration. To maximise its benefits, consider using orange for wall art, standout furniture items, and decor elements in collaborative spaces within the office.

Purple

Purple symbolises luxury, wisdom, imagination, and tranquility. It inspires ambition and sophistication, igniting creativity. Combining the calming qualities of blue and the energy of red, purple creates a harmonious balance. Introducing purple into your office space can promote a sense of comfort and reduce stress among your employees, boosting their productivity and efficiency. Consider incorporating purple in areas like the reception and meeting rooms to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

So what colour do I go for?

When designing your workplace, consider incorporating colour into various elements. Posters, furniture, curtains, and even kitchen utensils can have a positive impact on employees. Reflect on your company's branding and the colors in your logo. For instance, if your logo features red and yellow, consider adding pillows in those colors to meeting areas to strengthen your brand identity. If your brand colors are blue and purple, place armchairs in those shades in the company kitchen to promote relaxation. The association of your brand with excitement and innovation or sophistication and luxury can also guide your choice of colours in your office design.