Sir Isaac Newton developed the first circular diagram of colors in 1666. Since then, scientists and artists have studied modern color theory, amassing a vast collection of rules and formulas. So, what do those rules and formulas have to do with making a small room seem larger? It's all about optical illusion; one of color theory's clever mysteries. With a few basic principles, you can improve that small space that always seems too packed, even when it's tidy and in order. Color enthusiasts have known for ages that colors create optical illusions, but it wasn't until modern times that these effects were mapped out and documented in a scientific manner. Here is an example: if you place two squares - identical, except for the fact that one square is black and the other is white - side by side, the black square will appear to be smaller than the white square. Now, take this concept of the squares into a living space. If a lighter color makes something seem larger than it is, a room can be "opened up" by painting the walls white, or beige. This works the same way with other colors of a light tint; a room with powder blue walls will seem larger than a room with navy blue walls. A single color will create an optical illusion on it's own, but the human eye barely notices this until it can compare that color with another. Use two colors together to enhance the illusion that you want to create. A low ceiling - or any ceiling, for that matter - will seem to open up if you paint it a color lighter than the walls. The ceiling can be painted a lighter version of the same color that you used for the walls (this will create color harmony), or you can use any contrasting combination that you like, as long as the walls are darkest in comparison. So what about furniture, and how will it's color affect the perceived size of your space? A color theory mantra is that warm colors advance, and cool colors recede. Warm colors, like red, brown, and orange will warm up the room. They are typical for the Tuscan style interior design…. The monochromatic furniture and accessories are inherent to the very slick modern design. All though the burgundy and purple colors with golden accessories are an inheritance from the Royal period and they are identified with luxuries and wealth. The green color has a calming influence. A green plant existence in the room is a must in order the coziness to be created. Although, the American design society, plead restraint of much greenery in the commercial interiors in 2009. In conclusion- optical illusion in color theory is a about how colors аffect other colors; and how they affect our mood, therefore – efficiency…. and there is where the interior decorator is most needed!
raises a room’s energy level. It’s a good choice when you want to stir up excitement, particularly at night. In the living room or dining room, red draws people together and stimulates conversation. In an entryway, it creates a strong first impression. Red has been shown to raise blood pressure, speed respiration and heart rate. It is usually considered too stimulating for bedrooms, but if you’re only in the room after dark, you’ll be seeing it mostly by lamplight, when the color will appear muted, rich, and elegant. Red, the most intense, pumps the adrenaline like no other hue.
in its darkest values (eggplant, for example) is rich, dramatic, and sophisticated. It’s associated with luxury as well as creativity, and as an accent or secondary color, it gives a scheme depth. Lighter versions of purple, such as lavender and lilac, bring the same restful quality to bedrooms as blue does, but without the risk of feeling chilly.
is considered the most restful color for the eye. Combining the refreshing quality of blue and the cheerfulness of yellow, green is suited to almost any room in the house. In a kitchen, a sage or medium green cools things down; in a family room or living room, it encourages unwinding but has enough warmth to promote comfort and togetherness. In a bedroom, it’s relaxing and pleasant. Green also has a calming effect when used as a main color for decorating. It is believed to relieve stress by helping people relax. Also believed to help with fertility this is a great choice for the bedroom.
captures the joy of sunshine and communicates happiness. It’s perfect for kitchens, dining rooms, and bathrooms, where happy color is energizing and uplifting. In halls, entries, and small spaces, yellow can feel expansive and welcoming. Yellow although is a cheery color is not a good choice in main color schemes of a room. People are more likely to lose their tempers in a yellow room. Babies also seem to cry more in a yellow room. This color tends to create feeling of frustration and anger in people. This color is the most fatiguing on the eyes. In chromotherapy yellow was believed to stimulate the nerves and purify the body.
brings down blood pressure and slows respiration and heart rate. That’s why it’s considered calming, relaxing, and serene, and is often recommended for bedrooms and bathrooms. Be careful, however: A pastel blue that looks pretty on the paint chip can come across as unpleasantly chilly when it’s on the walls and furnishings, especially in a room that receives little natural light. If you opt for a light blue as the primary color in a room, balance it with warm hues in the furnishings and fabrics. To encourage relaxation in the rooms where people gather family rooms, living rooms, large kitchens consider warmer blues, such as periwinkle, or bright blues, such as cerulean or turquoise. Blue is known to have a calming effect when used as the main color of a room. When going with blue go for softer shades of blue. Dark blue has the opposite effect. Dark blue evokes feels of sadness. So refrain from using darker blues in your main color scheme. Stay with the lighter shades of blue to give you and your loved ones a calm effect.
evokes excitement, enthusiasm and is an energetic color. This color should be used with a success in every room as it is especially great for an exercise room. It will bring all the emotions out that you need when jumping into your fitness routine. In ancient cultures orange was used to heal the lungs and increase energy levels.