Have you ever stopped to think about WHY you feel a particular response when you enter a space? Do you feel welcomed, comfortable, excited, are you drawn into a room for a particular reason?  If the space doesn’t feel right I’m sure you have even had  the desire to leave as quickly as possible or even worse you have no response at all.

There are many reasons people react to their built environment however one of the primary influences is color. What inspired me to take a closer look at color theory and therapy is the process of identifying a paint color for the guest bedroom. I am inclined to use the same shade of blue-gray I did in my previous home because I absolutely loved it (so did my guests that toured my home when they would visit). It was the perfect hue that created a calm and soothing environment ideal for getting a great night of sleep. Not to mention it also had the psychological affect of making the room feel cooler in temperature which was essential in a home without air conditioning.

According to color theory and color therapy the characteristics of blue evoke a sense of peace, truth, devotion, and sincerity. All things that we emotionally and intellectually associate with a safe and comfortable environment.  As I mentioned previously blue is a calming color that helps to relax nervous over-excitement and it also deterrs insomnia. It is even thought of as more soothing than the color green when it comes to a person’s emotional state. The muted or softer tones of blue are used for meditation which is a natural fit for a bedroom. Can you picture yourself in this bedroom? Does it provide a sense of relaxation? Personally I can see myself curling up with a great book at the end of the day.

If you are an introvert, it is also thought to help you come out of your shell. Dominant or vibrant shades of blue inspire communication and promote knowledge. It’s said to be connected to your throat chakra which is also your creative center. Figuratively speaking…it is connected to your voice. In this space the Tiffany Blue chairs around a large dining table perfectly suit an environment designed for communication.

Or can you see yourself gathered around this large island with family and friends? The gray-blue cabinets suit this space well. Evenings filled with great conversations accompanied by a glass of wine is what comes to my mind.

The next time you think of the color blue and the potential it has in your space take a moment and focus on how you want the room to feel for you and your guests. Is it a part of your home where you want to escape and relax at the end of the day? If so, be sure to pick a muted or softer tone of blue.  OR do you see yourself in a cozy environment that is ideal for talking with your friends and family? Then most likely you should choose a vibrant tone as seen in the example of the kitchen above.

Try opening the door to any tone of blue in your home and see how it not only transforms the physical space but also transforms the physical you.