Colour Representations

From the beginning of civilization humankind has held representations with colour with certain things. For example only kings or the nobility used colours such as purple. The dies were expensive and only the rich could afford them. The colour white even to this day means purity, hence why it is still the colour of choice by many new brides. It is only natural that colour is recognized in association with what it represents and how it makes a person feel in their home.

When setting up the décor of a room the chosen colour pallet should reflect what the owner desires to portray. Warm colours like rich brown, blues, burnt oranges or reds can help to create an environment of warmth. These colours are typically classified in the earth tone category. Earth tones are colours that reflect natural occurring colours on the earth. They range from browns to greens; just think wild forest. The semi-dark tone is what makes them considered to be warm colours. Warm colours such as these create a very comforting room that will allow a person to relax. Looking at human biology the brighter the colour the more it forces the eye to send messages to the brain to keep it alert. Warm darker colours like these help a person to relax and not be over stimulated. These warm dark colours mixed together represent the earth's colour, hence the title earth tones.

Of course warm colours are not for everyone. There are other colours that can bring about other feelings and represent different aspects of our lives. Look at the colour red. Red is considered to be a stimulant when used in the kitchen. Red with a black trim can give a very crisp almost retro feel to it. Red is also associated with passion and the dramatic. If done right it can make a great dramatic addition to a regal styled bedroom, however most decorators choose to stay away from red in the bedroom unless that is the colour that the owner wishes to go with. Instead of a sharp red in the bedroom colours along the burgundy hue may be a better choice. They are not as visually stimulating as red.

If a cheerful happy room is what is wished for then colours such as yellow or orange should be looked at. Lighter, somewhat muted tones of yellow bring about a light cheerful tone to the room. Yellow typically represents sunshine and happiness. Orange, especially the burnt oranges are considered to be friendly and informal. However if a calming tone is more to what is desired then blues and greens are what should be chosen. These colours are associated with nature, think ocean water, sky, grassy meadows etc.

Before settling on a colour motif be aware of the colours that are chosen. These colours are what will set the mood for the room and cause people to act in away that is in response to that colours association.