weekly design inspiration: ways of colour
Colour is so much more than a visual experience—it's a conversation between our minds and the spaces we inhabit. When we talk about colour theory in interior design, we're diving into the profound way colours interact with each other and influence the mood, energy, and perception of a room. It’s where the magic happens, where a designer’s instinct meets science, and where creativity flows freely.
At its core, colour theory is about understanding how colours complement, contrast, and balance one another. It’s not simply about choosing hues that look good next to each other; it’s about understanding the emotional resonance and psychological impact each shade has on a space and its occupants.
colourful context
One of the most fascinating aspects of colour is its subjectivity. What one person perceives as warm and welcoming, another might find too bold or overwhelming. Colour doesn’t exist in a vacuum—our brains process and interpret it in ways that are deeply individual, shaped by our personal experiences, cultural context, and even the natural lighting in the room.
When a designer crafts a colour palette, they’re not only working with pigments—they’re speaking to the viewer’s subconscious, creating harmony or tension, calm or excitement, nostalgia or innovation. Whether it’s a serene blue that mimics the open sky or a rich, golden mustard that evokes the warmth of the sun, the goal is always to create an emotional connection with the space.
Source: Jean Stoffer Design
Source: Whittney Parkinson Design
palette of the psyche
The beauty of colour theory lies in its dual nature—part art, part science. There’s a psychological component at play here, too. Certain colours can elicit specific emotional responses. For example, cool tones like blues and greens tend to have a calming effect, often used in bedrooms and bathrooms for their relaxing properties. Meanwhile, warmer tones—like red and orange—can stimulate energy, making them ideal for spaces where activity and conversation flow, like kitchens or living rooms.
It’s why we find ourselves instinctively gravitating towards certain colours, depending on the feeling we want to evoke. A deep navy can make a space feel cozy and intimate, while a crisp white can create a feeling of openness and freshness. The interplay between warm and cool tones within a room can completely change how we perceive the space.
Source: Anna Spiro Design
Source: Jenni Yolo
narrative nuance
Interior design is, in many ways, the art of storytelling. Colour gives designers the power to shape the narrative of a space—whether it’s creating a tranquil retreat from the outside world or an inspiring, energizing environment. Colours can evoke memories, express personal style, and even push the boundaries of convention. A well-chosen palette can highlight architectural features, complement furniture choices, and guide how a person feels within that space.
Source: Ashley Montgomery Design
Source: Albion Nord
Design Tip: Ultimately, colour theory in interior design isn’t about adhering to rules—it’s about experimentation, intuition, and embracing the emotional responses that colour can provoke.
