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When a collaborative approach is taken, colour and decorative elements can help to create a stimulating and supportive environment for everyone in the workplace.
Colour has been used symbolically in history by many societies and cultures. Ancient cultures have traditionally used colour therapeutically, applying it to different parts of the body in order to assist the healing process.
Over time, an association between certain colours and emotion has been distinguished and an area of study developed called Colour Psychology. Research in this area has shown some interesting results, for example, individual studies found that:
- Prison inmates were calmer in cells painted a certain shade of pink 
- Weight lifters have more powerful performances in blue rooms
- Babies cry more frequently in yellow rooms
However, while a lot of study and experimentation has been carried out in regard to colour preference and there are numerous examples of how colour has been used therapeutically over time, there is little scientific data on how colour affects people’s mood. Nevertheless, we do understand that colours have the capacity to evoke certain moods whether it is by association or perhaps some deeper subconscious recognition.
Whichever way we look at it, colour is an integral part of our lives, from the clothes we wear, to the foods we eat, to the colours we paint our homes. It is only natural that our workplaces are an extension of our relationship with colour.
Implications for the Workplace
As it happens there is growing recognition that, beyond manipulation of colour solely for the purpose of improving productivity, colour and workplace aesthetics are an essential ingredient of healthy, balanced workplaces. Many colour experts agree that having a variety of colour is psychologically most beneficial. Drab colours and dull surroundings with no decorative elements are said to have a depressing effect on users’ energy levels and willingness to take action. Therefore, the ideal workplace environment is likely to be one that permits involvement and diversity, where colour selection is based on the function of the workspace and the needs of its users.
Colours are said to influence our emotions in different ways, the effects of which may depend on the intensity or strength of the colour and hue. Some interior designers and colour consultants use these principles in order to create a certain feel and enhance the purpose of different workspaces.
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Warming Colours
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Red
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Is associated with warmth, strength, vitality, passion and action. Stimulates the appetite and is often used in restaurants. Use of the colour red has increased blood pressure and heart rate in some studies. Too much red may induce a stressful state, nervousness, impulsiveness, or aggression.
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Pink
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Represents compassion, love, understanding and caring.
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Orange
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Symbolises inspiration, joy, warmth, trustworthiness, enthusiasm, and brightness.
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Yellow
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The colour of intellect and thinking clearly, represents sunshine, optimism and happiness.
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Gold
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Associated with wisdom and enlightenment.
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Brown
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The colour of the earth and tree trunks, brown implies solidity and reliability.
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Cooling Colours
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Green
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The colour of truth, harmony and balance, associated with nature, peace, tranquility, and freshness.
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Blue
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The most common favourite colour, blue, represents calmness, peace, and coolness, the opposite of red. Some studies have found that blue decreases appetite hence it is rarely used in places where eating takes place. Too much blue may represent ‘the blues’ or a depressive state.
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Purple
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A colour associated with royalty in history, purple is a mix of blue and red and is associated with spirituality, dignity and hope.
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References:
Colour Psychology: It’s Not Just Black and White. Discovery Channel (available online).
Itten. J., (1997). The art of color: The subjective experience and objective rationale of color. Wiley Books, USA.
Mahnke, F.H. (1996). Color, Environment, & Human Response. John Wiley & Sons, Canada.
Mahnke, F. H., & Mahnke, R. H. (1987). Color and Light in Man-made Environments. Van Nostrand Reinhold: New York.
Steele, F. (1986). Making and Managing High Quality Workplaces. Teachers College Press: New York.
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