The ongoing discussion about the influence of colours on our mood, productivity, and psychological well-being has been a topic of interest throughout history. In 1979, Alexander Schauss conducted one of the earliest studies exploring the connection between colour and mood.
This study focused on American prisons and found that painting the walls pink reduced aggressive behaviours among inmates. Although offices differ significantly from prisons, this research demonstrates how colours can impact our emotions and behaviour.
Colours play a more substantial role in our daily lives than we often realise. Particularly in the workplace, a thoughtful application of colours can enhance employees' productivity, well-being, and overall happiness.
This blog post will discuss the fifteen best colours you can use in your NZ office for 2024.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Psychology of Paint Colours
Top 13 Paint Colors for Office Spaces in NZ
Practical Tips for Painting Your Office Space in NZ
Conclusion
Understanding the Psychology of Paint Colours
Colours profoundly impact human psychology, influencing emotions, mood, and behaviour. Different colours evoke distinct reactions due to how our brains perceive and process them. Understanding these effects is crucial when choosing paint colours for various spaces.
Warm colours, which include shades like reds, oranges, and yellows, are known for their stimulating properties. These colours evoke feelings of energy, passion, and intimacy. They create a cosy and inviting atmosphere and are suitable for spaces encouraging social interaction and activity.
On the other hand, cool colours encompass hues like blues, greens, and purples, and they have a calming and soothing influence. Lighter shades of blue can promote a sense of tranquillity and help reduce stress, making them ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms.
Whites, greys and browns offer a versatile backdrop for various design styles. They create a sense of balance and allow other elements in the room to stand out.
Top 13 Paint Colors for Office Spaces in NZ
Yellow
A vibrant and energising colour, bright sunshine yellow stimulates creativity and optimism. It can foster a positive atmosphere and boost morale among employees. Pair it with soft blues or whites to balance its intensity.
Orange
Orange is known for promoting enthusiasm and motivation. An energetic orange burst can invigorate your office environment and encourage teamwork. Complement it with neutral greys or whites to create a dynamic and modern look.
Red
Red is a powerful and stimulating colour that can increase alertness and productivity. However, too much red can be overwhelming, so consider using it as an accent colour. Pair it with calming greens or greys to create a balanced yet motivational space.
Blue
Sky blue evokes a sense of calmness and tranquillity, making it an excellent choice for high-stress work environments. It can enhance focus and concentration while reducing anxiety. Combine it with whites or soft yellows for a serene and airy ambience.
Green
Seafoam green is a refreshing and rejuvenating colour that promotes balance and harmony. It can create a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for creative brainstorming sessions. Pair it with creams or light greys for a timeless and sophisticated look.
Lilac
Lilac is a unique and creative colour that encourages imaginative thinking. It can add a touch of elegance to your office while stimulating innovation. Combine it with greys or muted pinks for a contemporary and chic vibe.
Olive Green
Olive green represents growth, stability, and productivity. It can bring a sense of balance and grounding to your office environment. Pair it with warm browns or creams for a natural and inviting space.
Navy Blue
Navy blue exudes elegance and professionalism, making it a popular choice for sophisticated office settings. It can convey authority and confidence while complementing other colours like gold or white for a refined look.
Charcoal Grey
Charcoal grey is a versatile and classic colour that suits various office styles. It provides a sense of formality and sophistication and can be paired with almost any other colour to create a stylish and timeless space.
Beige
Beige is a neutral and timeless colour that promotes a calming and uncluttered environment. It can serve as a backdrop for accent colours and artwork while promoting a sense of openness and simplicity.
Earthy Terracotta
Terracotta is a warm and earthy colour that brings a touch of cosiness to your office. It can foster a welcoming and nurturing atmosphere, perfect for employee well-being. Combine it with creams or natural greens for a harmonious and inviting space.
White
White symbolises purity and simplicity, making it an excellent choice for modern and minimalist office designs. It can create an open, clean space that allows other colours and elements to stand out.
Pink
Pale pink has a calming and soothing effect, making it suitable for reducing stress and tension in the office. It can promote a sense of compassion and understanding among employees. Pair it with greys or soft blues for a gentle and sophisticated look.
Practical Tips for Painting Your Office Space in NZ
Before you get over-excited with picking a colour scheme, a preparation phase is essential, even before buying paints. These tips will help you reduce costly mistakes and help you achieve the office aesthetics you dream of.
Preparing the walls and surfaces
Before starting any painting project, preparing the office walls and surfaces is crucial. Begin by removing any furniture, artwork, or decorations from the room to provide ample space to work. Clean the walls thoroughly to remove dust, dirt, and grease, as these can affect the adhesion of the paint. Patch any holes or imperfections with spackling compound and sand the walls to create a smooth and even surface. Taping off baseboards, trim, and other areas that shouldn't be painted will ensure clean and precise edges.
Selecting high-quality paint and tools
Investing in high-quality colours and tools is essential for a successful office painting job. Choose a colour particularly designed for your painting surface (e.g., walls, ceiling, or trim). Consider the finish, such as matte, eggshell, satin, or semi-gloss, depending on your aesthetic preferences and the level of durability required for the office space. High-quality paint provides better coverage and a more even finish and tends to last longer, saving you time and money in the long run. Additionally, using quality brushes, rollers, and painter's tape will produce a professional-looking result.
Test patches and colour samples
Before committing to a particular paint colour, testing patches and colour samples on the office walls is wise. Lighting and other factors can significantly influence how a colour appears in space. Apply small paint samples to different office areas and observe them at different times of the day. This will help you gauge how the colours interact with the lighting and how they make you feel in the office environment. Considering the psychology of colours, as discussed earlier, can also guide your colour selection based on the desired ambience and atmosphere.
Hiring professional painters vs DIY approach
The decision to hire professional painters or take the DIY approach depends on various factors, including the size of the office space, the complexity of the project, and the available budget and time. Hiring professional painters can ensure a high-quality and efficient job, as they have the expertise, experience, and equipment to handle the project professionally. They can also advise on colour choices, finishes, and painting techniques. However, professional painting services may come at a higher cost.
On the other hand, opting for the DIY approach can appeal to some business owners looking to save money on painting expenses. DIY painting can give you a sense of accomplishment and control over the process. It allows for a more personalised touch and the flexibility to work on the project at your own pace. Additionally, the DIY approach might be manageable if you have a smaller office space with straightforward painting needs.
Conclusion
Understanding the psychology behind paint colours is essential when designing office spaces, as the right colour choices can enhance employees' performance and create a positive work environment.
Incorporating these carefully chosen paint colours and mindful combinations into your NZ office space can create a harmonious and inviting environment, fostering employee well-being and productivity. Remember to consider the psychology of colours and how they align with your office's goals and atmosphere. Doing so can create an office space that promotes positivity, creativity, and success.
