When you are choosing colors for the design of institutions, you are faced with a unique challenge. You want the colors that you choose to be fashionable, but not so trendy as to go out of style quickly. After all, repainting a space requires a fair amount of accommodations. So your color choices should be modern, yet classic. In addition, you should take the purpose of the space into consideration when you are dealing with an institutional space. For example, when you are decorating a hospital, you should choose colors that are calming rather than colors that can increase anxiety.
Every color can create a reaction within those who are surrounded by it, even if they don’t realize it. Here is the scoop on choosing colors for the design of institutions.
Red: Red is an exciting color that demands attention. On the positive side, it represents strength, activity, and passion. From a negative standpoint, it also represents anger, blood, and even war. Since red is such a bold color, it is best used for accents rather than a wall color. A red wall – even if it is just one wall in the room – can be over stimulating. Red is a great choice for signs, because it grabs the attention of the viewer.
Orange: The particular shade of orange that you are using will determine what affect it has on the room and its inhabitants. A bright shade of orange has similar effects as red. It is exciting and stimulating. A lighter shade of orange is more similar to yellow, creating a sense of cheerfulness. Orange is an energizing color, so it is a good choice for places where physical activity will be performed, like a fitness center or physical therapy center.
Yellow: Yellow is a happy, cheerful color, a reminder of the rays of the sun. For larger areas, light shades of yellow or gold are best, while brighter shades of yellow are a great choice for accents.
Green: Green is the most restful color to the eye, and it implies a sense of tranquility and nature. When green is used in a large space, like a wall color, it should be accented with touches of brighter colors so that it doesn’t appear dull or boring.
Blue: Blue suggests calmness and cleanliness, but it can also seem melancholy or depressing. Pairing blue with brighter accent colors can provide balance.
Purple: Purple is the color of royalty and dignity. It is thought to inspire wisdom and creativity. It is a good choice for the theme colors of a school or university.
White: White represents simplicity and sterility. When you see white, you may think of hospitals. However, an all-white medical facility can also seem too sterile and lacking in personal connection or compassion. White can also present a blank canvas, which in large doses can make a space feel unfinished.
Black: Black gives a sense of being mysterious and powerful. Because it is so strong, it is best used as an accent color.
Gray: Gray is neutral, which can come across as calm, but also dreary. It is a good choice for a neutral background onto which you can add accents of brighter colors.
If you are considering colors for the design of your institution, contact LDB Design. We specialize in institutional design, so we can help you to choose the perfect colors for your walls and accents that will make your space appealing and welcoming to your clients. Call LDB Design to learn more about our services today.