The Psychology of Colour: Holi Hues and Emotional Design – News18

Holi, the festival of colours, is a kaleidoscope of joy, celebration, and the symbolic washing away of negativity. It’s a vibrant explosion on the senses, a reminder of life’s inherent vibrancy and the power of human connection. But beyond the playful chaos and the temporary stains on clothes, each colour in Holi’s palette carries a deeper meaning. As designers, we can harness this power of colour psychology to create evocative and emotional spaces within your home this Holi. In this article, expert architects and designers from the industry talk about the emotional language of colour and offer practical tips on how to harness its power in your home interiors.

Communal Spaces Bathed in Joy

The heart of Holi lies in its communal spirit. Living rooms and common areas are the perfect spaces to capture this joyous energy. Sanjay Bhatia, Director, SSB Architects explains, “Opt for bold hues like sunshine yellow or a playful orange. These colours are known to stimulate conversation and encourage social interaction, fostering the same sense of connection that Holi embodies. You can incorporate these hues through statement walls, accent furniture, or vibrant throw pillows.” He suggests, “Don’t be afraid to mix and match – after all, Holi is a celebration of joyous abandon. To balance the vibrancy, ground the space with neutral furniture or calming elements like textured rugs in earthy tones.” This creates a sense of groundedness amidst the celebratory chaos.

Soothing Spaces for Inner Peace

Holi isn’t just about external revelry; it’s also a time for reflection and inner peace. Bedrooms can be transformed into sanctuaries of tranquillity using the psychology of colour. Soft blues and calming greens are well-known for their ability to induce relaxation and promote feelings of well-being. “Paint your bedroom walls a serene sky blue, or introduce calming greens through botanical prints or lush indoor plants. To add a touch of Holi’s vibrancy without compromising the serenity, incorporate pops of colour through artwork or decorative accents that resonate with you – perhaps through a sculpture or a bespoke cabinet”, says Ar. Sanjay.

Unleashing Imagination with Bold Accents

Holi isn’t just about colours. It’s about embracing the the lack of it , and brightening up neutral moments with dashes of colour just like the festival. Ar. Prashant Kochhar, Associate Partner & Principal Architect of LTDF Architecture + Interior Design explains, “Take inspiration from the festival splashing and reminding us of Colour, and how it is expected to be wearing white or light shades so all the colours may show”! Often, a dominantly neutral backdrop serves a crucial purpose—it acts as a canvas that accentuates the presence of color, making it more vivid and impactful. When a splash of color is introduced into a space that is fundamentally understated and serene, that color doesn’t just add a visual element; it infuses the space with personality and vibrancy. It’s almost as if the color becomes more alive, its effects magnified, against the calm, neutral setting.

Therefore, the expectation to add a “touch of whimsy” with a bright color in these design styles is not merely a trend but a profound recognition of the power of contrast and balance. It acknowledges that while simplicity, functionality, and tranquility are foundational, the essence of a space is truly brought to life through deliberate, thoughtful splashes of color. This approach allows for creativity and personal expression, ensuring that spaces are not just visually appealing but are also intimate reflections of those who inhabit them.

He further states, “Colors can influence mood, evoke emotions, and create focal points that guide the eye and the spirit through a space. The addition of a bold, whimsical color—a vivid blue vase, a bright yellow throw pillow, or a lush green plant—becomes not merely a design choice but a statement, a moment of joy, a reflection of the dwellers personality.”

As you experiment with colour this Holi, remember that there are no hard and fast rules. Embrace the spirit of the festival – embrace the unexpected, celebrate joy, and create a space that reflects your unique personality. It’s a constant reminder to embrace life’s vibrancy and nurture the emotional well-being of yourself and those you love. So, this Holi, let your home become a canvas for your emotions, a testament to the transformative power of colour. Happy Holi!