Following is a journey through the history of colours, their symbolism, and their practical applications in the field of architecture. The psychology of colours examines their effect on human behaviour and emotions. Colours are not merely a visual experience but also a psychological, symbolic, or even mystical one. They carry meanings that differ according to location, artistic period, historical context, or cultural background: « each culture possesses its own colour palette, its own symbolic interpretation, its own reading grid and codes, its own infatuations or rejections » as one hears at Liaigre.

Interest in colours and their organisation goes back thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians and Greeks already attributed symbolic meanings to colours. Blue was associated with divinity and protection, and pigments were extracted from rare materials, making them valuable assets. During the Middle Ages, colours primarily served religious purposes. Red symbolised sacrifice and divine love, while white evoked purity. The stained glass windows of cathedrals illustrated biblical scenes by exploiting the emotional power of colours to educate and impress the faithful.

With the emergence of science in the 17th century, Isaac Newton revolutionised the understanding of colours by demonstrating that white light could be broken down into seven fundamental colours on a colour wheel. The following century, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was one of the first to explore the emotional impact of colours in his Theory of Colours, published in 1810. Unlike Newton, he was more interested in subjective perception than pure science.

The artistic revolutions of the 19th and 20th centuries then liberated the use of colours. Impressionists and Fauves used colours as tools for emotional expression. Simultaneously, psychological studies began to influence fields such as industrial design and architecture. Notably, the Bauhaus school conducted extensive colour studies.

In architecture, the use of colours can help transform the perception of space. A dark shade applied to the ceiling gives the impression of a lower room, while lighter colours on the peripheral walls elongate the space. Bright colour accents on central walls create focal points that visually suggest a certain spatial shortening.

In the field of interior architecture, colour is not just about finishing surfaces. It is also involved in the definition of materials, furniture and decorative objects. Therefore, it is essential to consider the power of colour associations: the human eye can be deceived and perceive the same hue differently depending on its context, its association with other colours, and the scale ratio it maintains with them.

To fully harness the infinite range of shades at our disposal, it is crucial to delve into the psychology of the main colours. Here, we focus on the characteristics of secondary colours and their recommended uses.

Red: Energy and Dynamism

Red is a fiery colour, conveying warmth and energy. It stimulates the senses – hearing, smell, touch, sight and taste – and acts as a real driving force for the body and the mind. A fascinating fact: red is the first colour a baby distinguishes. Its intensity makes it an ideal choice for creative spaces such as an office or a music room. Having the capacity to increase appetite, it is also used in kitchens or dining rooms. However, its vigour can disturb the tranquillity of relaxation spaces like bedrooms, living rooms, or bathrooms, where more calming shades are recommended.

Orange: Vitality and Creativity

Colour of enthusiasm, orange frees the mind and stimulates creative thinking. Its communicative energy helps assimilate new ideas and maintain a high level of activity, making it an excellent choice for gyms. Softer shades, such as peach or apricot, soften its intensity and allow it to blend harmoniously into other rooms. Deeply associated with the aesthetics of the 1970s, orange pairs perfectly with bold patterns or plastic materials to create a retro atmosphere.

Yellow: Optimism and Light

Universally recognised as the colour of happiness, yellow evokes joy, optimism, and confidence. While it inspires creativity and stimulates the mind, its intense brightness can make it less suitable for resting environments. On the other hand, it integrates easily into the following styles: as contrasting accents in a minimalist decor, paired with raw materials in an industrial style, or in Mediterranean interiors, recently marked by the repeated use of lemon and Sicilian Moro heads.

Green: Serenity and Balance

Green is synonymous with calm and harmony. The most restful colour for the eye, it creates a sense of order and security. Its varied shades allow for multiple interpretations: deep greens, like emerald or forest green, bring intensity and sophistication, ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and offices. Softer tones, such as sage or mint, foster concentration and are better suited for workspaces.

Blue: Calm and Connectivity

Blue reduces inflammation, lowers blood pressure, and soothes strong emotions such as anger, aggression, or hysteria. It brings tranquillity and alleviates suffering. It is one of the most studied colours in colour psychology due to its strong impact on emotions and mental well-being. Its ability to strengthen bonds and evoke a sense of community makes it a natural choice for shared living spaces. Innately versatile, blue can be integrated into almost any type of space.

Purple: Luxury and Creativity

A symbol of refinement and creativity, purple also evokes royalty and power. Once reserved for the elite due to the high cost of its dye, it remains a bold yet powerful colour. Today, purple may seem a somewhat risky choice, but it can be an excellent way to elevate an interior and add a touch of luxury. It is better used in relaxation spaces such as the bedroom, living room, or a meditation area.

White: Purity and Renewal

White, synonymous with clarity and renewal, is a blank canvas that invites the purification of thoughts and actions. At the heart of minimalist aesthetics, it stands as a safe bet for walls, furniture, and accessories. While some criticise its excessive coldness, it remains unparalleled in creating a luminous and timeless atmosphere. White remains the most versatile colour in interior design.

In conclusion, each shade, with its richness of meanings and effects, acts as a guiding thread that connects our interior to our deeper needs. By choosing a thoughtfully curated colour palette, we are not merely decorating a space—we are creating an experience, a subtle balance between aesthetics, functionality, and emotions.

Sources:

Matheus Pereira, The Role of Color in Architecture: Visual Effects and Psychological Stimuli, 2018, www.archdaily.com

Luce Bleher, Couleur et architecture. Architecture, aménagement de l’espace, 2016, Dumas

How to Use Color Psychology in Interior Design, 2020, www.nativainteriors.com

Thomas Barrie, Is Purple Making a Comeback in Interior Design?, 2024, www.houseandgarden.co.uk