The Psychology of Colour

The psychology of colour is the study of how colour affects our mood and influences our behaviour. It influences us physiologically, which in turn produces a psychological response.

‘Research reveals people make a subconscious judgment about a person, environment or product within 90 seconds of initial viewing and that between 62 and 90% of that assessment is based on colour alone.’ CCICOLOR – Institute for Colour Research.

Harmonious colours ensure this response is a positive one. Colour is myriad wavelengths of light, the differences between them resulting in our perception of the seemingly endless tonal variations of the eleven basic hues. The colours of our environment lead to instinctive emotional reactions. In the same way that sounds and rhythms can lead to positive emotional feedback, colour and colour combinations work in exactly the same way.

Communicating with Colour

Colour is a subliminal language that communicates with us on the deepest of levels. It is a powerful medium through which desired results can be achieved with confidence and accuracy.

Think of one musical note. Played on its own, it doesn’t mean much at all. Put a multitude of notes together and it is a different story. If they are harmonious as a whole then the music makes sense, and is pleasant to hear. It is the same with colour. When you see harmonious colours, they are universally attractive. You instinctively understand what is being communicated, and feel the positive effects of their psychological properties.