As everyone returns to work after the holiday season, the home office takes on renewed importance. Read our top tips on selecting colours for an inspiring space that fosters greater focus, creativity and productivity.
Colour psychology and workspace design research has shown that the colours used in a workspace can influence mood, wellbeing and performance. When designing an office space, you can use colour psychology to create a dynamic space that gets you in the right state of mind for work. Unlike traditional offices, your home office offers a blank canvas that allows you to design a unique space that inspires you.
Bring the outside in
Green is associated with the natural world and is thought to have a soothing and restorative effect. You can further enhance its effect by placing plants along your eyeline. What’s more, because the human eye sees green better than any other colour, this colour reduces eye fatigue which leads to improved focus and attention. As such, green is the ideal office paint colour if you spend many hours looking at screens.
Regina Burke, a colour consultant at our Cork branch, suggests a few options: “Green is a very restful shade. For a light fresh space, consider Mizzle from Farrow & Ball. For a deeper muted green, try DH Drab by Dulux Heritage and if you want to opt for something cosy and moody, explore the grounded hues of Ralston’s Yeats Country.”
For a calming hue, choose blue
Considered the “colour of the mind”, blue is ideal if your job requires deep concentration, attention to detail, and working to deadlines. Known to stimulate the mind, blue can reduce stress, enhance clear thinking and boost productivity.
Design-wise, blue is an endlessly versatile shade, complementing a wide range of colours, wood tones, and metallic accents. You can find a blue to evoke whatever mood and style you’re looking to achieve. For example, Oxford Blue by Dulux Heritage is ideal for those seeking dramatic flair, whereas Ralston’s Salome will lend any space a sense of serenity.
Embrace neutrals
If your work mantra is “clean desk, clean mind”, then a neutral colour scheme may be your best bet. A minimalistic colour scheme will let you create a decluttered yet relaxed environment in which you can focus on your work. Break up the neutral colour scheme with pops of colour on furnishings, wall art, house plants or even a feature wall.
Arunima Dutta, a colour consultant in our Blanchardstown store, advises: “Neutral colours make an office feel airy, spacious and calming. My favourites include beige (eg, Aluna by Colourtrend ), grey (eg, Origami by Ralston ), and warm white (eg, Fresh Flour by Dulux Heritage ).”
Consult an expert
For advice specific to your home office, why not draw on the expertise of a professional? At Pat McDonnell Paints, we offer a free colour consultancy service with qualified design and colour experts in all of our stores. Our colour consultants will help you devise a colour palette perfectly suited to your home and taste.
Inspired? Pop in store or phone us on 091 380 640 to get expert advice specific to your decorating project. Fast and free delivery is available on all orders. Shop all products online at www.mcdonnellpaints.ie
