Color Psychology

Buddha College of Architecture

Presenting by:- Harsh Verma (Roll No.:- 2001)
  Just as the colors of an abstract painting or photograph can
produce a certain mood, so can the colors of a building or room
profoundly influence how the people using it feel. Physiologically,
study after study has shown that blue light slows the production
of melatonin, keeping people more alert or awake even at night.
Psychologically, people associate certain colors with certain
Color feelings due to cultural symbols and lived experiences – for
example, they might perceive the color red as menacing or
Psychology frightening because of its connection to blood.

Altogether, the way a room is colored can have complex effects on

how its users feel, while a façade can be perceived in dramatically
different ways depending on how it is colored. Below, we
summarize the emotional associations of every color, assessing
their differing effects as each is used in architectural space.
 Red
Red can connote passion, excitement, or
warmth depending on its precise hue, but it
can also be associated with fear or danger.
The way the color is used and how the
space is laid out can determine how exactly
it is perceived. Darker, maroon hues may
read as sultry and enticing, while bright,
neon reds are friendly and eye-catching.
All-encompassing red, if done poorly, may
feel overbearing, but if done effectively can
create a unique ambient experience.
Touches of red in otherwise more neutrally
colored spaces can also be a highly
effective method of drawing people’s
attention to specific objects or elements.
 Orange
Though unusual, architectural uses of the
color orange can create soothing, luminous,
friendly spaces. Less ostentatious than red,
orange spaces are calmer but still bright
and jovial. Because it is less aggressive, it is
also less risky for use in abundance.
 Yellow
Yellow is consistently radiant and cheerful,
and can be used both all over a space and
to highlight specific elements in a way that
does not overwhelm as much as red. Due to
its friendly and quirky associations, it is
used commonly in children’s spaces such as
daycares and kindergartens, and due to its
radiance is conducive to making any grey or
somber space seem instantly livelier. Paler
or more orange hues of yellow may appear
calmer.
 Green
Another unusual color for architecture,
green – particularly emerald green or pastel
green – is highly soothing and relaxing.
Even neon green, however bright, generally
appears calmer than other neon colors.
However, yellow-green, if used poorly, may
feel strangely clinical, particularly in
juxtaposition with white. Externally, green
walls and green roofs both suggest
sustainability and connote friendly warmth.
 Blue
Another unusual color for architecture,
green – particularly emerald green or pastel
green – is highly soothing and relaxing.
Even neon green, however bright, generally
appears calmer than other neon colors.
However, yellow-green, if used poorly, may
feel strangely clinical, particularly in
juxtaposition with white. Externally, green
walls and green roofs both suggest
sustainability and connote friendly warmth.
 Purple
Purple, like blue, can be soft and relaxing,
but to an even greater extent – particularly
pastel purple in diffused light settings. Neon
purple, particularly neon purple lights, are
fun, bright, and exciting, and can make a
lasting impression due to their uniqueness.
 White
White walls are among the most common
features of modern architecture for their
connotations of purity and cleanliness. On
exterior walls, they are conducive to
dramatic shadows and flat, pristine
facades, while interior white walls can
make users feel calm but alert. White
ceilings and walls also help diffuse light,
making interior spaces seem brighter.
 Black
Black buildings tend to appear cool and
contemplative, though they may be
perceived as ominous in certain situations
as well. Thoughtful lighting within black
interiors and on black exteriors can make
rooms and facades feel less dark and
oppressive. While black wooden
architecture may appear rustic and
introverted, black metal detailing often
feels sleek and modern.
Thank You