Behavioural Design Consultant, Karen Haller discusses the impact of interior design on well-being. Having her own consultancy agency and as the author of “The Little Book of Colour”, Karen Haller is a true expert in choosing colours for your interior.
Learn everything there’s to know about Applied Colour & Design Psychology and why it’s important to include during your design process.
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Q & A
1. Why is it important for designers to apply Colour & Design Psychology early in the process, and how does it impact a project’s success?
Colour is often an afterthought, seen as decoration. However, when we recognise colour’s ability to influence behaviour, it becomes essential. Designing a space with intended user behaviours in mind from the start informs the choice of colours, materials, and finishes. This approach is logical, measurable, and eliminates guesswork, leading to better project outcomes.
2. What are your thoughts on ‘colour drenching’ a space?
Colour drenching, where a dominant colour covers walls, floors, ceilings, and even furniture, is a bold trend that creates an immersive, dramatic effect. It evokes strong emotions depending on the colour, saturation, and context. While it can provide a “wow” factor and instant impact, it may not support long-term emotional well-being. Additionally, it can pose safety issues for those with difficulty distinguishing surfaces, raising concerns about its inclusivity.
3. What hue, tone, or shade for a neurodivergent teen?
It’s great you’re considering colours to support a neurodivergent teen, but there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. As Dr. Stephen Shore says, “If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.” And it’s the same with any neurodivergent style. What works for one person won’t necessarily work for another. Each individual has unique needs. My approach, shared in the webinar, involves an interdisciplinary team to gather information. I then provide guidance on the colour palette and design style that best supports the teen’s specific needs, using Applied Colour and Design Psychology.
4. Why does blue feel more spacious than red? Does it relate to blue being more trustworthy?
Light blue creates an illusion of more space due to its lightness. In contrast, red feels more intense because its wavelength advances towards us faster, making it more attention-grabbing. It’s not that blue is inherently more spacious, but lighter colours give the illusion of space, while red demands attention.
5. How do we design larger spaces like offices or hotels when one colour may annoy one person but excite another?
It’s key to understand your target market. Each hotel or office has different goals and clientele – some want a relaxed vibe, others a more energetic feel. The design should align with the desired behaviour of the visitors, whether it’s to make them stay longer, feel energised, or relaxed. Tailor the colour and design to achieve the client’s goals for the space.
6. Is dark blue really calming, despite the common belief that blue is always calm?
Dark blue isn’t necessarily calm. The calming effect of blue depends on its saturation, with lighter blues generally feeling more soothing, while darker blues can feel more intense.
7. What are some misconceptions about colour usage in design, and how can applied colour and design psychology help correct them?
One big misconception is the idea of “neutral” colours – there’s no such thing. For example, not all pinks are soothing – bright pinks like magenta or Barbie pink can be energising. Similarly, lime green and turquoise blue have too much yellow to be relaxing, making them unsuitable for spaces like bedrooms. Another misconception is that grey is sophisticated, but it can feel draining for many people. Design psychology helps by considering how colour, lighting, and context affect emotions and behaviours, ensuring spaces align with their intended purpose.
8. Do low-saturation colours make you feel calmer and more likely to stay in a space?
Low-saturation colours like light pinks or blues can be soothing, but their effect varies based on personal preference and context. While they may create a calming environment, it doesn’t guarantee that someone will want to stay longer. Some people might find muted colours unappealing. It’s not a one-size-fits-all answer – how the colour interacts with other design elements and the individual’s preferences matters too. The emotional impact of colour is complex, just like we are.
Original content from modulyss
