Psychology can help you create your perfect living space – colour psychology, that is. Colours have an effect on us and on our moods and attitudes – sometimes noticeably and sometimes unconsciously.

We all have favourite colours, and we also develop strong associations between certain colours and particular times or events in our lives.

Before you re-style or choose a new colour scheme for your home, think carefully about the kind of mood you want to create with your colour palette.

Black: 

his colour makes a big statement. It might convey power, depth and sophistication. It is intense, though, and with the wrong combinations can be moody and even depressing. It’s perfect with neutrals, or even pastels. Use it wisely. Make it a tool to create the exact vibe you want. Black curtains against white walls can say ‘elegance’; black marble benches or black timber cupboards can be the epitome of sophistication. People who use black as a preferred colour are often independent and inve

Blue: 

Most shades of blue are ideal for places where you want to relax or sleep. Blue induces feelings of calm and serenity and can promote inner peace. It’s no surprise. Blue sky and blue water have t same effect and we like to bring those feelings into our homes.

People who are attracted to blue are usually cool, calm and self-assured. 

Red:

This is probably the colour with the strongest stimulating effect. It is associated with strong passions and sensuality. Like black, it can be overpowering if overused, or used in the wrong combinations. Use red sparingly to create bold statements, such as feature walls, signature furniture pieces or art works. It’s a perfect partner for metallics and timbers.

People who are drawn to red are often flamboyant or brimming with confidence.

Green: 

Green is about energy and comfort; it creates a sense of harmony and belonging, possibly because of its association with the Earth. It’s an ideal colour to use in a child’s room or nursery, to inspire feelings of safety and being cared for. As a ‘nature’ colour, green – whether in paints, fabrics or plants – brings the outside into your home.

People who prefer green often prioritise stable, loving relationships. 

Orange: 

Orange is said to be for extroverts. If your style is a little ‘out there’, you might add a few orange feature pieces into your living areas. Even if your tastes are more moderate, splashes of orange add life and energy. It’s the colour of being social: a great choice for places where people congregate – dining rooms, living rooms or meeting rooms, perhaps. It can be a little unsettling in bedrooms or places where you need quiet focus.

People drawn to orange tend to be in their element when surrounded by other people. 

Grey: 

Grey has an unfair reputation for being dull. Stretching between black and white, there are so many shades of grey to consider – from the palest dove-grey to charcoal. Grey is a perfect neutral. It suggests balance and detachment and promotes a sense of relaxation and letting go. This makes it a perfect base shade for your bedroom décor. Grey is the perfect partner for many stronger colours, too, as it provides an elegant background for them to shine out strongly.

Those who relate well to grey are often calm and steady and good at making, and keeping, resolutions.

Purple: 

This is often seen as a mystical, spiritual colour. It’s at its best in places used for relaxation and self-exploration. Softer shades – from plum to lilac and lavender – are more successful when used this way. Stronger tones, such as royal (Tyrian) purple and violet can be overpowering when overused. Choose purples for a touch of the exotic and a hint of understated luxury in your bathrooms, swimming and spa areas, or in your ‘productive’ spaces.

People who love purple are often creative, intuitive or spiritual.

White: 

White is almost universally a symbol of innocence and purity. It is also associated with light and brightness and is perfect for illuminating an area and creating an illusion of spaciousness. White is the top choice for elegant minimalist styles, as in crisp white fabrics and white paint for furniture and other surfaces. White is the ultimate canvas for adding touches of your favourite feature colours. Explore white: it has more shades than you might think.

People who are keen on white are often highly discerning, sometimes tending towards perfectionism.

Pink: 

Don't shrink from pink. Traditionally a colour associated with young girls' bedrooms, pink is definitely broadening its horizons. It is a cooling feature colour and an absolute touch of elegance when paired with white or grey. Use softer shades to good effect in your home. Their calming effect is well known. Be aware that bright ‘candy-pink’ shades can have the opposite effect.

People who adore pink like to show their feminine side. They tend to be romantic and compassionate.

Turquoise: 

Lying as it does between blue and green, turquoise promotes emotional balance. It’s a sea and sky colour so, like blue, it promotes a sense of calm and well-being. Bring these effects to places where they are needed most – to your bedroom or bathroom, or even your office. Like pink, turquoise makes a great partner for grey or white.

People who love turquoise often have inner strength and great communication skills. They are usually sensitive and compassionate.

Be thoughtful about colour when you decide to decorate your home. Colour is about so much more than meets the eye. It meets you on so many other levels, too.