Many studies over the decades have shown that colors can influence our mood. Strategic use of color has the ability to boost your motivation, increase energy levels and increase overall productivity. So how can you use color to set the mood for your work? Here, we share the top five colors for the home office—plus some you might want to avoid.
1. Blue for overall productivity
Blue is an all-time favorite for office settings, and it’s easy to see why. Color is often used in the advertising industry to project security and trustworthiness.
Blue creates a pleasant and calm atmosphere, suitable for fast work. Also, it is known as a color that promotes creativity.
Blue color has a positive effect on the body, lowers blood pressure and slows the heart rate. This relieves stress, relaxes the body and mind. So, you can focus on completing their work tasks.
2. Yellow for creative jobs
Yellow is associated with originality, happiness and creativity. Whether you’re a writer or a designer, a yellow home office sets a calm working environment that gets your creative juices flowing.
The sunny color is also known to promote collaboration. Therefore, a yellow accent wall is an ideal backdrop for your online meetings.
However, it is important to note that excessive use of yellow color can cause eye fatigue. Pale tones are a great choice as they are not too harsh on the eyes.
3. Green for improved decision making
Green is a color associated with nature, reminiscent of lush foliage. It is located in the middle of the spectrum, making it easier for our eyes to process. Hence, it relieves eye strain and improves focus during long working hours.
The green is known to improve problem solving and memory while promoting positive thinking. It is an ideal color choice for jobs that involve decision-making and is also good for individuals who suffer from screen-induced eye strain.
4. Red to increase energy
Red is a fiery color that infuses energy into a room. It is ideal for active workplaces.
However, this is a very exciting color and should be used with caution. Increases red blood flow and heart rate, which can negatively impact your productivity. Going overboard with this bold color can overwhelm the mind and trigger anxiety, so it’s better to use it as an accent.
5. Brown for improved focus
Brown is a ground color that promotes stability. Warm browns help set a relaxing environment where your body can relax and focus on work tasks.
This calming color that brings nature inside is perfect for jobs that involve focus and concentration. A rich chocolate brown tone with neutrals is a pleasant color scheme for a workspace.
Colors to avoid in the home office
- white A boring color that does not create a flow of energy. Its only benefit is to promote a sense of cleanliness, but we can leave that for the clinical environment. You can still use white as a base, but layer other accent colors to set your desired mood.
- Gray The color is versatile and elegant, but it can make a home office feel depressing. Light gray is reminiscent of a cloudy and rainy day and won’t do much to improve productivity.
- black Too dark to use in a home office. Like gray, it can create a gloomy atmosphere.
