Colour – it’s a very personal thing. And that’s why, when it comes to selecting the colour for your business’ interiors it can be quite a tough decision.
In the home environment, colour is a preference largely chosen by one or two people, and it can still lead to many hours stood in the aisles of a homeware store agonising about different shades of white. In the business environment, where colour is used to reflect the ethos of your organisation and the many personalities within, it can be very difficult indeed.
What’s more, in the workplace colour can actually affect the way your staff work, which impacts upon mood and productivity. The use of colour also allows visitors, clients, customers and potential employees to form an opinion of your workplace very quickly. Is this is a dry, dull, boring environment with magnolia walls, framed ‘motivational’ images of cogs and penguins and dusty faux foliage? Or is it vibrant, on the move, innovative and inspirational, as witnessed through the use of bright tones and exciting design?
It does all depend, of course, upon the clientèle you are attempting to attract. This is an important aspect to consider before you make a selection. A serious and professional solicitors dealing with important issues on a daily basis probably won’t use the bright, vibrant limes and pinks a young city centre marketing company may choose. But even so, a serious enterprise is no excuse for mouldy magnolia and faded pot plants. White walls, leather sofas and classy furniture can ensure your firm displays a professional look and feel without looking drab and dated.
There is a psychology associated with the colour you choose, so if you’re interested in finding the best tone for your business, read our quick guide here…
White
You can’t go wrong with a bright, clean white, particularly as a base tone upon which you make your mark with splashes of vibrancy. Consider teaming white with other tones to avoid a look that’s too clinical.
Red
A vibrant colour that invokes passion, red is inspirational but too much can be overpowering in the office environment. Don’t feel like you need to avoid it altogether but do use red sparingly because a little of this colour goes a long, long way.
Yellow
The colour of positivity – it creates a sense of feeling of happiness and optimism – the colour of spring. This can be a good choice for promoting a positive team mentality.
Green
Green offers a natural look and feel which helps to connect people to their natural surroundings. It can insinuate natural growth but also has the potential to be bright, youthful and vibrant depending upon the hue.
Blue
Blue is a peaceful colour which allows you to promote a sense of calm. It is said to be associated with reliability and stability, too.
Black
Best used sparingly, black can appear both professional and sinister. It can offer contrast against a white background where it offers a feeling of solidity and certainty – but like red, too much black is not necessarily a good thing.
Purple
Purple is an interesting colour – it can be associated with royalty on one hand, and so promote a feel of luxury. On the other hand, biblically speaking purple is also the colour of death. However the emotion you conjure through your use of purple largely depends on the hue you select.
Orange
Bright and fresh, orange is a youthful, exuberant colour – but be careful with this tone as too much of this dazzling hue is sure to give you a headache.
For more information on what colours to use within your business environment, please speak to Hannah Barnes Commercial Designs today.