olors are known to have a strong impact of human moods and emotions.  It is believed that even some physical sensations can be modified by color.

A sensation of warmth is conveyed by warm colors (e.g. reds, yellows).  There have been documented cases in which complaints of inadequate heat have been overcome by a change of color scheme, rather than a change of air temperature.  In order to achieve a cozy room you must make use of warm colors that can be enhanced by warm lighting.

The impression of formality, reserve and physical coolness is archived with the use of cool colors such as blue and green.

Theorists are not certain whether human reactions towards colors are innate or cultural.  For example, in Canada black is associated with death and mourning.  The exact opposite is true in China, their symbol for death is white.

Responses also differ according to context.  Red is a symbol of danger and also for "stop", yet it is also used for exit signs, to indicate a route for safety.  In once context color may cause excitement, whereas the same color in another context may be irritating.  Here are a few examples of associations for various hues:

Reds
- heat, excitement, stimulation
- danger, tension
- small amounts of red can augment and balance blues and greens in a color scheme, adding life & cheer.
- strong reds and greens together can create unpleasant tensions

Oranges
- shares the qualities of red to a slightly reduced extent.
- stimulator in an otherwise neutral or cool color scheme.

Yellows
- the mildest of the warm colors
- cheerfulness, humor
- brightness
- yellow tints (e.g. cream, beige) are considered safe colors, with no negative implications
- over use of yellow tints can create an impression of monotony.

Greens
- cool color
- considered calm, restful, peaceful, and constructive
- believed to be the best color for offices, classrooms and hospitals

Blues
- coolest of colors
- suggests rest and repose
- calm and dignity
- if overused or in too strong a chroma, blues can generate depression and gloom
- intense blues in small areas can be a helpful accent in a warm color scheme

Violets
- problematic and unsafe
- may convey uncertainty
- often seen as artistic, suggesting subtlety and sensitivity
- strong hues can initiate tension and depression, although they may also project dignity
- must be used with caution

Neutrals
- makes a good background
- easy to live with over a long period of time
- can be dull
- greys can be very useful when used with limited areas of more chromatic colors
- browns and tan are associated with a snug, clubby atmosphere
- appear "homey" in milder tones and masculine in their heavier tones

White
- suggests clarity, openness, brightness
- considered a safe color
- cleanliness and sanitation
- all white color schemes can seem forced or empty
- whites used with accents imply modernity and high style

Black
- powerful accent color
- suggests weight, dignity, formality and solemnity
- if overused can be depressing
- large amounts of black should be only used in spaces occupied for brief periods of time

Almost any color can work in certain situations given a balanced relationship of hue, chroma, value and texture.

To meet with a Jostar Interiors color coordination specialist, contact us and set an appointment to see how we can make a color scheme that will portray the style and mood you want.

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