the colours

Every colour has related psychological associations that come into play unconsciously when we choose colours and when we see colours. When we understand these associations, we can learn to use colour consciously.

red and orange

Red

Red is the start of the spectrum, the start of life and gives us the energy to start new projects. It is the colour of survival. We associate it with blood, fire, passion and danger. Red is strong and daring, it acts quickly, on impulse. It is the colour most associated with the body and the physical world: it is grounding and it reminds us that we need to eat and sleep to give us energy to live.

Too much red or red used in the wrong way becomes aggressive and confrontational. It is difficult to relax when we are surrounded by red.

Orange

Orange is joyful and abundant – it represents physical comfort; having enough or more than enough of what you need. It is warm and stimulating, it encourages people to relate to one another. Orange is fun and is the colour of playfulness.

Orange can be awkward and even uncomfortable when it is used in the wrong way. It can mean that we are putting a brave face on a difficult situation or not taking things seriously enough.