Architecture is often appreciated for its important and practical utility in sustaining the progress of a society. But for an architect, it is also an expression of their ideas and visions. Architects express their creativity not only via the shape and form of a structure, but also through its colour scheme. Colours have the ability to evoke emotions and provoke responses – hence, being accounted as a major factor in the influence of architecture on people. Moreover, humans are deeply influenced by their surroundings, and architecture plays a significant role in shaping these environments. Hence, within the field of architecture, the psychological impact of colour is of considerable importance.
What is Colour Psychology
Recognizing the potency of colour and its enduring impact on occupants is of utmost significance, especially in the built environment since it makes up for a major experiential factor in a person’s life, therefore affecting their psychological and social state of mind. The selection of colour tone, combination, proportion, and placement holds pivotal importance in every project, influencing not only the visual appeal but also the behavioural outcomes. Even employing the correct colour but in an inappropriate tone can yield adverse consequences.
In totality, the colour scheme of a room can intricately influence the emotions of its occupants, whereas the perception of a facade can vary significantly based on its colouring. The list below outlines the emotional connotations of each colour, examining their distinct impacts when applied within architectural settings.
Red
The colour red can evoke feelings of passion, excitement, or warmth, depending on its specific shade, yet it can also evoke fear or danger. Its perception is influenced by both its application and the layout of the space. Deeper, maroon tones might convey a sense of allure and intrigue, while vibrant, neon reds exude friendliness and grab attention. When applied extensively, red can feel overwhelming if not executed well, but when used effectively, it can create a distinctive atmospheric experience.
Orange
While unconventional, incorporating the colour orange in architecture can yield spaces that are soothing, luminous, and inviting. Compared to red, orange exudes a more subdued vibrancy, resulting in environments that are lively yet tranquil. Its less assertive nature makes it a safer choice for extensive use, as it maintains a cheerful ambiance without overwhelming the senses.
Yellow
Yellow radiates cheerfulness and warmth, making it suitable for widespread application throughout a space or for highlighting specific elements without the overpowering intensity of red. Its friendly and whimsical connotations make it a popular choice for environments catering to children, such as daycares and kindergartens, while its luminosity can instantly enliven any dull or sombre space.
Green
Another unconventional choice for architectural colour is green, but they are known for their calming and soothing qualities. This colour typically exudes a sense of tranquillity, suggesting sustainability and emanate a welcoming warmth.
Blue
Blue is characterised by its cool, soothing, dignified, and secure aura. Lighter shades can often make a room seem bigger and more spacious than it is, while darker and richer tones of blue can exude a sense of calmness, royalty and relaxation.
Purple
Similar to blue, purple can offer a soft and relaxing ambiance, with pastel shades especially conducive to creating a tranquil atmosphere in diffused light settings. Conversely, neon purple, especially when utilised in neon lighting, exudes a sense of fun, brightness, and excitement, leaving a lasting impression due to its distinctiveness.
White
White walls are ubiquitous in modern architecture, renowned for their associations with purity and cleanliness. When applied to exterior walls, they create a backdrop for dramatic shadows and maintain a sense of flat, pristine facades. Internally, white walls induce a feeling of calmness and alertness among occupants. Additionally, white ceilings and walls aid in diffusing light, enhancing the brightness of interior spaces.
Role of Colour in Architecture
Apart from its psychological impact, colour also holds significant importance in architectural design
- Spatial Perception: Colours influence how we perceive space. Lighter tones create an illusion of larger rooms, while darker shades offer a cosier, more intimate feel. Architects can manipulate perceived space by selecting appropriate colours.
- Identity and Branding: In commercial architecture, colour reinforces brand identity. Iconic colours like Coca-Cola’s red or Tiffany & Co.’s robin’s egg blue instantly evoke brand recognition and association.
- Cultural Significance: Colours carry diverse cultural meanings. Architects working on global projects must consider these cultural connotations. For example, white signifies purity in Western cultures but denotes mourning in some Asian cultures.
- Historical Context: Historical architecture often adheres to specific colour palettes reflecting the era. When restoring historic structures, architects honour these colour traditions.
- Environmental Considerations: Sustainable architecture considers colour’s reflective properties. Light hues reduce heat absorption, enhancing energy efficiency, particularly in warm climates.
- Visual Hierarchy: Color guides occupants through a space. Contrasting colours highlight key features or elements, aiding in navigation within a building.
Architecture and Colour
Listed below are a few examples of famous architectural buildings that utilise colour psychology and their significance:
- Chefchaouen, Morocco: Known as the “Blue City,” Chefchaouen is famous for its buildings painted in various shades of blue. The tradition of painting buildings blue is believed to have originated from Jewish residents seeking to symbolise the sky and heaven. Today, the blue-washed streets and buildings attract tourists from around the world, creating a picturesque and serene atmosphere.
- La Boca, Buenos Aires, Argentina: The neighbourhood of La Boca in Buenos Aires is characterised by its colourful buildings, particularly along the tourist hotspot of Caminito Street. The buildings are painted in vibrant hues, including shades of blue, green, yellow, and red. This colourful architectural style reflects the neighbourhood’s immigrant roots and artistic heritage, making it a cultural hub and a popular tourist destination.
- Jodhpur, India: Often referred to as the “Blue City” of India, Jodhpur is renowned for its blue-painted houses clustered around the majestic Mehrangarh Fort. The tradition of painting houses blue is believed to have originated from the Brahmin caste, who considered the colour auspicious and used it to distinguish their homes. The blue buildings create a striking contrast against the desert landscape, making Jodhpur a visually captivating destination.
- Willemstad, Curaçao: The capital city of Curaçao in the Caribbean is renowned for its colourful Dutch colonial architecture, particularly in the historic district of Punda. The buildings feature facades painted in bright pastel hues, including shades of blue, yellow, pink, and green. This vibrant architectural style reflects the island’s multicultural heritage and creates a charming and picturesque streetscape.
- The Rainbow Village (Caihongjuan Village), Taiwan: Originally a military dependents’ village in Taichung, Taiwan, the Rainbow Village was transformed by former soldier Huang Yung-Fu into a vibrant masterpiece. Each building in the village is adorned with colourful murals depicting various scenes and characters, creating a whimsical and joyful atmosphere. The Rainbow Village has become a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of community spirit and creativity.
- Cinque Terre, Italy: The coastal villages of Cinque Terre, nestled along the rugged cliffs of the Italian Riviera, are known for their colourful houses perched above the azure waters of the Ligurian Sea. Each village, including Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, features brightly painted buildings in shades of pink, yellow, orange, and red. The colourful facades create a picturesque and idyllic setting, attracting visitors from around the world.
- Valparaíso, Chile: The port city of Valparaíso, located on Chile‘s Pacific coast, is renowned for its colourful hillside neighbourhoods and vibrant street art. The city’s historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features brightly painted houses adorned with murals, graffiti, and street art. The colourful facades and artistic expressions contribute to Valparaíso’s bohemian atmosphere and creative energy, attracting artists, writers, and musicians from around the world.
References:
- Khalate, R. (2023) Use of colour in architecture and urban design – RTF: Rethinking the future, RTF | Rethinking The Future. Available at: https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/city-and-architecture/a3800-use-of-colour-in-architecture-and-urban-design/
- Chloe (2023) The role of color in architecture: A journey into the psychology and design aspects, Pro Arkitects. Available at: https://www.proarkitects.co.uk/the-role-of-color-in-architecture-a-journey-into-the-psychology-and-design-aspects/
- Cao, L. (2022) How color affects architecture, ArchDaily. Available at: https://www.archdaily.com/930266/how-color-affects-architecture
- How color affects architecture and Design (2023) Urban Design lab. Available at: https://urbandesignlab.in/how-color-affects-architecture-and-design/#:~:text=Color%20and%20Architecture,-When%20you%20hear&text=Exterior%20building%20colors%20stand%20for,medium%20to%20connect%20with%20it
