How to choose office colours that boost productivity

People rarely gravitate to a blue vegetable or a neon green couch. We choose colours that makes us feel good. So why not based this all on your home or corporate office.

We know that the psychology of colour plays a big role in the way you work, your mood and productivity. Colours can negatively and positively influence your workflow.

Let’s dive a little deeper into that.

First, what is colour psychology? What does it mean? “Colour psychology is the theory that colours can affect how you feel, think and act.”Knowing that it can be used as a powerful tool to help influence your workspace.

How do office colour schemes affect your mind?

To ensure the effect of your colour choices are positive, try to create an uplifting and fresh atmosphere. Choose office colours schemes that fit with your personality or a colour that fits in with the
culture of your employees.

There are however a few colours you should consider avoiding, as it can have a less than desired impact on your wellbeing and day to day interactions.

The effect office colours have on your mood

Colour can also easily affect our mood, which means it can also be used to control our mood. Every colour elicits a different emotion and has a different impact on your mood. But it is important to also remember that our culture and surroundings have influenced how we see colour.

If you are in a corporate environment, your employees are most likely from different backgrounds. This means that a specific colour can mean different things and impact our moods in different ways.

When you choose your office colours, do your research first. Establish your company’s cultural landscape and then choose your colour.

The effects colour has on your productivity

Lastly, colour also influences our productivity. As bizarre as it may seem, your office space has the ability to slow you down.

For example, grey common areas can be calming and can have a depressing effect on you. Red can over stimulate your mind causing you to lose concentration or it can fuel excitement. A yellow meeting room can cause anxiety or instil happiness.

There is no one right colour, as they all have different psychological results.

You have to establish what your goals and needs are for your office. Knowing this and depending on your line of work will help you choose the colours best suited for your space.

Before we get to office colour ideas, ask yourself the following questions:

1. What is the goal of this office?

Do you need a space that evokes calmness and concentration? Maybe you need a space that increases creativity? Or you might need a neutral and ‘clean’ office space to help you focus.

2. What line of work are you in?

If you are a designer, you might opt for more vibrant and funkier colour schemes. If you are in marketing and sales, you might go with lighter tones. If you are a lawyer, grey and white colour schemes might be good for professionalism.

3. Is it a home office or a corporate office?

If it is a home office, you have a bit more personal power over your choice of colour. If you are in a corporate environment, you might not have a say regarding the décor.

10 office colour ideas and their meanings

Now that you know the influential power colour has over us, it is time to choose your office colour scheme.

Choose your corporate office paint colours or home office paint colours

Whether you are painting your walls or revamping your décor, you can use this list to help you make a decision.

1. White (versatile)

White paired with soft neutrals help promote focus and neatness. It is a versatile colour and can be easily blended with soft colours (light grey or brown) or bold colours (pop of yellow or blue). If white is a bit stark for you, try an off-white creamy colour.

2. Black (confident)

Although it is only recommended to use as a secondary colour, it is a very powerful look. It shows that you are bold and confident as a person or company. You can finish off the look with complementary colours like white, grey or even a pop of colour. It is a great choice if you are in the art or architecture space.

3. Red (excitement)

Red evokes a sense of urgency and excitement. It is an energetic colour and a great option if you work in a fast-paced environment. To tone down the boldness of red, pair it with neutral shades like black, white, grey or brown. Please remember, that red can also over stimulate employees or fuel feelings of anger. The best is to create a combination of colours that complement red positively.

4. Orange (enthusiasm)

Orange is a great choice if you are in the creative industry. It is a colour known to boost energy levels. With its already warm tone, you can pair it with complementing colours like shades of blue. If you want a more subtle look, combine it with white and lighter shades of orange.

5. Yellow (positive)

Yellow stimulates feelings of happiness and can brighten your mood. Another good colour for creative industries, although do not overdo it. Too much yellow can cause frustration or overstimulation. Combine it with other colours or use it as secondary colour.

6. Green (focus)

Green is all about focus, balance and the stimulating your mind. If you work in the financial or publishing industry, green is your colour.

7. Blue (productivity)

Blue is one of the main colours that increase productivity. It is an ideal colour to help you stay focused. If you work in the accountancy industry, blue is a perfect choice. But if you just like blue, you can spice it up with a dash of orange or yellow.

8. Brown (reliable)

Brown is a very reliable choice as it blends in with most colours. It also shows strength and security. It can help create a perfect office space if you are in the business or law industry. Or if you are using it for your furniture, it is a great choice for anyone.

To compliment your home office, blend it with white and green (plants).

9. Grey (neutral)

Grey is another highly versatile colour that can give your office space a modern look and feel. It also evokes feelings of peace and tranquillity. We suggest you pair it with brown (desk) and green (plants) to get that perfect look. It also pairs well with bright red and orange which will add a bit of energy to the space.

10. Purple (Imagination)

Purple is a royal colour that represents wealth and unleashes imagination. If you have a home office, we suggest you go with softer shades of purple that evoke a calming effect. If you own a company, use purple as a secondary colour, or to paint a wall or two.

As you can see, creating a fresh look for your office is as easy as changing up your office colours.

Choosing your colour all depends on your working style and the main use of your office. If you know those two things, you will be able to put together an office space that will enlighten your mood, enrich your mind and boost your productivity.

If you are ready to revamp your home or corporate office and you are looking for furniture, we can help. We have an array of products available suited for all workplaces. You can browse through our products on our website or get in touch with one of our specialists that will take care of all your needs.