What the colour of your home says about you, according to science – and it’s bad news for people with red walls

The colour of the walls in your home is something that many budding interior designers spend hours deliberating over.

Now, a psychologist has revealed what your chosen shades say about you. 

Professor Geoff Beattie, a professor of psychology at Edge Hill University argues that choosing a colour scheme is a ‘psychological issue, not just an aesthetic one.’

‘A growing body of neuroscientific, behavioural and psychological research shows that colour is not merely a matter of taste,’ he explained in an article for The Conversation. 

‘The hues that surround us influence our emotional states, cognitive performance, social interactions, sleep – and even our long–term psychological wellbeing.

‘In other words, the colours of our walls might be shaping our lives in ways we rarely consider.’

If you want to boost your creativity and problem–solving skills, Professor Beattie advises choosing muted green paints. 

In contrast, red walls will make it difficult to focus on tasks, he warns. 

Whites, greys and beiges

If you’re not sure what colour to paint the walls of your home, you might be tempted to opt for netural shades. 

‘Neutral colours (whites, greys, beiges) are low in visual stimulation, which helps reduce sensory overload and stress,’ Professor Beattie explained. 

‘They enhance perceived spaciousness, and can have in both children and adults.’

However, the shade and context are crucial.  

‘Cold greys or stark whites may evoke sterility or sadness, particularly in poorly lit spaces,’ the expert warned. 

Blues and greens

With its connection to nature, green is linked to restoration and reduced mental fatigue, Professor Beattie explains.  

Meanwhile, blues – often associated with sky and water – can have a calming effect.

As we saw with the neutrals, however, shades are key. 

‘The psychological evidence says choose low– to mid–saturation shades rather than hyper–bright colours for your long–term comfort,’ Professor Beattie said. 

‘Blue and muted green are associated with enhanced creativity and improved problem–solving. 

‘A muted green home office or study may make you more innovative without you really noticing why.’

Yellows

Yellow is a great choice – but only in certain rooms, the expert explained. 

‘You should probably reserve warm, energising colours for social or active areas in the house. Soft yellow feels cheerful, presumably due to its association with sunlight – but high–saturation yellows may increase agitation,’ he said. 

Reds

As with yellows, reds will only work in certain rooms – and most definitely not in your home office. 

‘A red–accented study might feel “dynamic” initially, but it could backfire when you start on tasks requiring calm focus and clear thinking,’ Professor Beattie said. 

Instead, red might be a good option for the bedroom, with studies showing this colour can increase desire.