Nature, the Master Colorist

Research confirms that color evokes basic, universal responses. Although the psychology of color is not an exact science, the connections we make about color are often rooted in nature.

White reminds us of a clean and crisp landscape.

 

Yellow conjures images of sunny days.

DailyMail--online; photo: by Corbis

  Green is a reflection of a lush environment.

from http://webexhibits.org. 

Orange, red, and purple turn up the heat.

While, blue is refreshing and soothing to the spirit.

from moallima's blog

Brown, tan, and gray neutralize the spice.

from: isaslittleworld.blogspot.

Finally, black adds drama.

How did these stereotypes gain acceptance?  The pinch of truth in each generalization sets it in cement. So, when determining a color scheme for any particular room, don't fight what the color is saying. Rather, let the stereotype reinforce the atmosphere.

Remember the clean decembral scene?  Subtly, I think, white kitchen cabinets imply that the establishment would pass a Food and Drug Administration inspection. ;)

Following this logic, a happy color intensifies the atmosphere in a sun-room, reminding the occupant of bright, light-filled days.

Maybe nature's lead is why I like a soft green for a more elaborately layered room. 

Just as a crackling fire heats a body, a warm color welcomes a guest.

In contrast,  a sea-foam color reinforces tranquility in a bathroom, making it feel like a spa.

Neutrals diffuse intensity and say, "Come in and dial down the anxiety."

Then, just as a foreboding sky foreshadows a crashing thunderstorm, so the darkest color, black, strikes a note of drama! 

To summarize, when picking colors, go back to nature. Let the world around you be your guide. Think about the message a particular color conveys. Do you wonder what would be an appropriate color for a dining room?  Ask yourself, "What atmosphere do I want, when I use that room?"  To help decide on a color, choose the mood you want to achieve, then think of how that is painted in nature. After all, the Creator is the master colorist!