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The Psychology of Colour: How Colour Can Increase the Value of Your Home

Monday May 27th, 2019

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Back in 1666, Sir Isaac Newton the English scientist discovered that when pure, white light passes through a prism, it separates into all visible colours.

Newton also discovered that every colour has a wavelength. And can’t be reduced any further into any additional colours.

Interesting, right?

Believe it or not, science has actually proven that colour impacts our mood.

Which makes a lot of sense when it comes to considering the right colour when selling your home.

Naturally, not all buyers are going to share your preference in colour selection.

While it’s pretty clear that colour can create different reactions in different people, the fact is we all feel something towards certain colours.

Now, researchers haven’t been able to determine any one classification system to determine how colour will affect a person. We all react differently.

This is due to the fact that we all have different cultural backgrounds, experiences, genders, age, mood etc. Call it preferential bias.

Now it’s worth noting that colour psychology doesn’t just come in handy when you’re trying to sell your home.

It works really well when applied to business, too. From the way that you dress. Or the colours you use to reflect your brands design.

Colour says a lot about us.

While you might not paint entire walls in these shades, you can still use the psychology behind them with accent pieces, feature walls or toned-down shade ranges.

Grey, white or neutrals

Shades of grey, white or neutrals often incite calming and relaxed emotions. They also often make your home feel larger. And can create a clean, blank canvas effect. The challenge is finding the right undertones.

Blue

Blue is often associated with creating a sense of tranquility. Naturally, it’s due to the fact that any colour reminiscent of the ocean (or water in general) feels calming and peaceful.

Red

Red is one of the most powerful colours in the colour wheel. With many people having the strongest reaction to it. People frequently report red makes them feel emotions such as courage, aggression, and strength. It also can increase our heart rates and energy. It represents “impact” and often makes us stop in tracks.

Green

Considering its earthly roots, shades of green make people feel refreshed, balanced and calm. Referencing its more symbolic roots, green is also often used in referring to envy, luck, fertility and peace.

While different cultures and backgrounds very much influence colour symbolism and psychology, the science says that regardless, colour can impact our moods. So, when it comes to using paint colours to sell your home, it’s smart to be strategic about it.

Think about what type of space you want your home to feel like. How do you want friends and family to feel when they come over?

These are all questions that can help you choose the right colour for your home.

Remember, colour can be used strategically. And if in doubt, just stick to neutrals.


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