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Colours can have a powerful impact on our moods and can set the tone for our most treasured living spaces. The right shades and colour combinations can help us feel more creative, more romantic, more relaxed or chattier, influencing our mental state and how we act. Different colours in our homes can even affect changes in blood pressure, stimulate or suppress appetite and even influence our relationships with others.
The interesting thing is how certain colours (or groups of colours) tend to get a similar reaction from most people. This is why it’s so important to choose colours wisely when it comes to painting a place as intimate as your home. Generally speaking, there are different colour families that are best suited for WORK, REST & PLAY.
Let’s take a closer look at what those colour groups represent and what kind of atmosphere they can create when they work together in your home.
Red is the colour of passion
Probably one of the most intense colours, shades of fiery red can increase adrenaline and heart rates like no other hue. It is usually considered too stimulating for bedrooms, and if you’re painting a nurturing space like a nursery, there are definitely other options to explore.
However, when used sparingly, colours like Taubmans Red Alert and Rum Punch can stir up an exciting sense of romance in your bedroom. For those with a daring spirit, it might be exactly what they’re looking for. Just keep in mind that with a commanding colour like red, less is more. Make sure your bedroom is spacious enough to dedicate a wall with this strong colour. Overdoing it can make a place feel claustrophobic and unwelcoming. Always use sparingly.
Blue is calming and serene
It has restorative properties and is said to bring down blood pressure and slow down the heart rate. That’s why it’s often recommended for bedrooms and bathrooms. Perfect for recuperating after a long day, the serenity of mild blues can help you relax and unwind. The great thing about blue is also its versatility; it can go effortlessly with many other colours, and it’s subtle and gentle touch can make your home a soothing, restful place where you can forget your worries and take a load off your shoulders. As a general rule, deeper and darker blues should be used sparingly, as they can overpower the décor of an otherwise well-balanced living space. To reap the full benefits of blue, gentler shades like Taubmans Breathless or Blue Beads are the way to go.
Yellow is happiness and sunshine
Capturing the essence of a bright sunny day, yellow is a good choice for kitchens, dining rooms and bathrooms. It can bring a positive energy to your mornings, evoking an air of freshness and liveliness. Hues like Taubmans Lemon Loud or the milder Cool Yellow are a great mood-lifter, especially for those who have trouble getting started in the mornings.
Green is gentle and nurturing
This great all-rounder is well suited for all rooms and plays well with blues and yellows. With its gentle shades, it’s great for nurseries and relaxing spaces where natural, calming hues are welcome. It is believed to relieve stress by evoking a sense of calm and helps people feel closer to nature. Taubmans Royal Palm and White Clover are great choices for a comforting and understated look.
Purple is elegant and sophisticated
In its darkest form is quite dramatic and eye-catching, and can be a very distinctive choice. It needs a certain artistic flair to work but can look fabulous when done well. The lighter hues can bring the same relaxing feeling to bedrooms as blue does, but feel a bit warmer and richer than cooler blues. Purple hues can have a calming and uplifting effect over the mind, and can trigger creativity. Light purple carries a more feminine touch, while bright purple is associated with richness and royalty. While dark purple can evoke a sense of luxury, it can also bring down your mood and feel unfriendly, so make sure your room has plenty of natural light if you choose to go this route. Lighter versions of purple, such as Taubmans Violet Verbena Quarter, Pearl Violet and Violet Verbena are the way to go for most spaces.
Orange is about energy and enthusiasm
Evoking excitement and positivity, orange is an energetic colour. While not always a good idea for spaces meant for relaxation, like say a living room or bedroom, this colour is great for a home office or study. Freshy and zesty hues like Taubmans Orange Relish and Orange Slice can help you feel more productive and add an air of positivity to an otherwise dull work space. It’s also known for stimulating the appetite, which is why it’s so commonly used in some restaurants. Remember to keep a steady supply of snacks handy for your exciting new study nook!
Neutrals are timeless
Light greys, taupes and whites are timeless classics that bring a bright airy feel to any space. They may be too conventional for some, but their enduring appeal and endless versatility will keep them popular for a long time to come. Neutral hues like Taubmans Tahira White, Grey Comfort and Historic Tan put the focus on your furnishings, and can look extremely stylish. They go well with almost any combination of interior stylings, furniture and colour ensembles. If you want a classic look that will always be on-trend, then this palette is for you.
Already have a colour scheme in mind? Check out our paint visualiser to find the perfect shade to bring your dream home to life.
