The Right
Paint Color Can Enhance Mood, Apetite
The
words "paint" and "power" aren't often used together, but they
should be, according to color psychologists. That's because
studies show that the color of paint on a wall can have a profound
effect on the body and mind. If you are about to repaint a room,
here are some things you should know about the hues you might
use:
-
Red packs a wallop, physiologically speaking, increasing
blood pressure, heartbeat and energy in most people. It
instills feelings of intimacy, passion and sexuality. Red
also increases the appetite, which explains why it is used
so often in restaurants, and why it can be a good choice
for a formal dining room.
-
Orange, like red, tends to warm a room, but in a more friendly
and welcoming way. As a result, paints that come in various
shades and tints of orange work well in living rooms and
family rooms.
-
Yellow is also warm and welcoming, but it is more attention-
getting than either red or orange. For this reason, it is
a good paint color to use in poorly lit foyers or dark hallways.
-
Blue, which is part of the coot color palette, makes us
feel calm and tranquil, so it is ideal for use in bedrooms.
But since blue works as an appetite suppressant (perhaps
because there are few blue foods) it is not the best option
for a dining room ... unless you're on a diet.
-
Green is another relaxing color that is much more versatile
than blue. Light greens are ideal for bedrooms and living
rooms; midtones are good for kitchens and dining rooms (many
foods are green). Also, because green is calming, it is
often used in hospitals, workplaces and schools.
-
Violet is a tricky color, psychologically speaking. Many
adults dislike purples, but are fond of the rose family,
which can work in many rooms, including dining rooms, bedrooms
and libraries. Young children, on the other hand, respond
favorably to violet, so this color can be used successfully
in children's bedrooms and play areas.
These
general guidelines are a good starting point in your search
for a paint color. But experts are quick to add that color choice
is a very personal matter. You're the one who has to live with
your new paint color, so choose a hue that suits you, your family
and your lifestyle. And
after investing time to select just the right color of interior
paint, make sure it continues to look that way long-term by
investing in a top quality coating.
According
to experts at the Paint Quality Institute, a top-of-the-line
interior latex paint is often the best choice for walls, ceilings
and trim. Top quality paints go on smoothly and evenly, cover
well, resist stains, touch-up nicely and hold their color
over time.
For
more advice on color and interior painting, see a knowledgeable
salesperson at your local paint store, hardware store or decorating
center. Or visit the Paint Quality Institute's extensive Web
site at www.paintquality.com.
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