There are many good reasons to select a particular paint color, including personal preferences and design considerations, but what’s often overlooked is the psychological power of color. Study after study has shown that certain hues create different moods; they can even affect behavior.
As a result, it’s wise to take time to think about the feeling you’d like to create in your surroundings even before looking at color cards. Do you want the space to be restful or invigorating? After making that decision, your color choice will be much easier.
Assuming that your goal is to create a tranquil space, you should favor a pale green or blue. These are among the most calming colors, so they’re perfect for rooms where you typically rest and relax – for example, the family room, sitting room, or bedroom. Should you choose one of these colors, you’ll get a bonus: Light green and blue tints are very much in vogue this year.
Other ideal colors for rooms where you want a restful setting include certain beiges and browns, as well as taupe. These hues are more enveloping than soft greens and blues, so they impart more warmth and coziness to a space.
If, on the other hand, you want to inject some energy into your surroundings, then you need to go to the far end of the psychological spectrum.
Yellow is one of the colors that reside there. Like a splash of brilliant sunshine, rooms that are painted yellow can literally lift the spirit and brighten one’s outlook. Could there possibly be a better color for the walls of a kitchen or breakfast area where you begin your day?
Aside from color, be sure to take into account the tone, or brightness, of the paint you choose, since that also plays a role in creating mood. Generally speaking, brighter tones invigorate, while those that are muted – more “toned down” — will help you relax.
Finally, after taking time to carefully choose just the right interior paint color, make sure it stays that way by applying a top quality acrylic paint. The highest quality paints made with 100% acrylic are extremely fade resistant, meaning that the color you apply will continue to look that way for years to come.
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