Colour in Office Design: Its Psychological Impact on Employees

The mystery behind colour dates all the way back to the1810s when Johann Wolfgang von Goethe published his work, The Theory of Colours. This work, for the first time since Sir. Isaac Newton discovered the colour wheel, linked up colours with emotions and opened the door for colour psychology as we now understand it.

The psychology of colour explores the ways in which different colours can affect human emotions, behaviours, and perceptions. It examines how different colours can evoke specific psychological and even physiological responses in individuals. Although individual preferences and cultural backgrounds may differ, there are some general associations and patterns that have been observed.

How then does this affect employee behaviour in office designs?

Here are some common colours used in office designs and their potential effects on employees:  

1. Blue:

Blue is often associated with calmness, focus, and productivity. It can create a sense of tranquillity and stability, making it suitable for high-stress environments or areas where concentration is essential.  However, too much blue can be perceived as cold or uninviting.

Studies have also shown that a light blue colour, as opposed to the calming effects of a darker shade, makes people feel more energized and less sleepy. This is because the colour, at the light temperature or wavelength it’s at, suppresses the body’s natural production of melatonin. This is a hormone that our brain produces in response to darkness and helps regulate our sleep cycles.

2. Green:

Green is known to be restful for the eyes and can promote a sense of balance, harmony, and relaxation. It is often associated with nature and can help create a calming and refreshing atmosphere in the office. Green is also linked to creativity and can stimulate innovative thinking.

A doctor might gravitate towards painting their waiting room light green to promote calm feelings in their anxious patients.

3. Yellow:

Yellow is a vibrant and energetic colour that can evoke feelings of happiness, optimism, and positivity. It can enhance creativity and stimulate mental activity, making it suitable for areas where     brainstorming or idea generation takes place. However, excessive yellow can cause feelings of anxiety or distraction, so it's important to use it in moderation.

4. Red:

Red is a bold and intense colour that can evoke strong emotions. It is associated with energy, passion, and excitement. Red can stimulate physical activity and increase heart rate, making it suitable for spaces     where employees need a burst of energy or where physical tasks are performed. However, too much red can be overwhelming and lead to feelings of stress or aggression.

5. Orange:

Orange is a warm and vibrant colour that combines the energy of red and the cheerfulness of yellow. It can create a sense of enthusiasm, creativity, and social interaction. Orange is often used in areas where collaboration and communication are encouraged. However, like red, excessive orange can be overstimulating.

6. Purple:

Purple is often associated with luxury, creativity, and spirituality. It can promote a sense of imagination, introspection, and problem-solving. Purple is commonly used in creative industries or areas where employees engage in tasks that require imagination and innovation. However, it can be seen as too unconventional or even gloomy if used excessively.

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As mentioned before, individual preferences for colour in-office design vary significantly from person to person, factoring in, cultural differences as well. Different cultures have unique associations and symbolism attached to colours. White might represent purity and cleanliness in some cultures, while it represents mourning in others. An extroverted individual may lean towards vibrant colours like orange whereas an introvert prefers pastel colours.

While these differences exist, the fact that people connect colour with emotion is universal. So, the next time you embark on an office design adventure, you might want to think in colour!

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