Color - seven simple hues with complex connotations. I still remember the moment I met Roy G. Biv in six grade science class. Mr. Biv and his mnemonic for the visible color spectrum still produce nostalgic perceptions of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. This color taxonomy is an efficient way to organize over six million colors into seven simple hues. Each of the six million colors has unique characteristics, charisma, and emotional implications, but for the sake of sanity, I will relish in the overgeneralization of hues and only recognize the original seven. At the risk of offending the amiable Mr. Biv, I also plan to neglect indigo.
Color envelops life, painting every aspect of our environment, consciously and subconsciously affecting our psyche. Among the wealth of scientific studies and results, there sits a practical and applicable cup of knowledge on color. Hues communicate psychological and emotional impact. Although personal impression and perception ranges, general information can help guide your color choices. Selecting the correct color can create an interior atmosphere to suite your space, aesthetics, ambiance, and psychological needs. Never underestimate the power of color.
Each post in this series will explore an individual hue, but the characteristics of the topic color can be translated into tints and shades. Keep in mind that the effects and emotions we discuss are most prominent and intense in pure, saturated color.
Where better to start than red?!? To some extent, the distinctive attributes of red will be present in color variations - cranberry, cinnamon, flamingo pink, cardinal, etc.
RED projects stimulation, force, and intensity. Often considered the strongest color, red provides concentrated psychological impact. Red is like a sexy negligee for your walls, saturated red lips - dramatic and dangerous. Save red for use in active areas that can handle tension, it can be unsettling and unsuccessful in spaces suited for relaxation.
Want to expand on color a little more? Soak in the knowledge of these basic color applications. Come back next week for a flirtation with sunshine - yellow.
{Photographs by Gaelle Le Boulicaut.}
{This series is also running on EcoSalon!}
