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Colour Schemes: Symbolism Of Colour

By: Astin Softech Click author's name for more of his/her articles

Colour is of course one of the most important considerations for a interior designer when contemplating the overall design of a room. Designers in London know that colour need not be expensive – in fact, it can be as cheap as a can of paint or a bunch of flowers! Yes it most cases it is colour that can make or break the interior design of a London room.

This article has been written to give a brief overview of the history and symbolism of colour, with specific regard to colour usage in the world of interior design in London.

Black is almost universally is associated with death (Japan being the exception). So, quite apart from its lack of light reflecting qualities, black in any quantity is seen as gloomy and depressing. Its use in armour and military uniforms also gives a masculine slant to its use.

White, at the other extreme, is associated in the interior design world and beyond with purity and light. Note its use in weddings throughout the world and religious celebrations, such as First Holy Communion, Easter celebrations, and the like. Its use in London interior design colour scheming draws on these occasions.

Red is an interesting colour symbolically. Red, the colour of blood, is traditionally warlike and is used in uniform, banners, and heraldry throughout UK and worldwide military history. These connections link red with danger and death. Yet red’s brightness and clarity is also used in many interior design situations in London to symbolise joy and happiness. The military connection throws it into the so-called masculine area of interior design.

Pink is usually seen as a weak colour, as opposed to the strength of red. It’s a short step for pink to be seen as feminine. In London, and indeed many western cultures, pink for girls and blue for boys has become accepted practice in interior designs of nurseries.

Green is the colour of life and natural vegetation. In the UK, the ancient May Day celebration sees the May King draped in newly-sprouted spring vegetation; whilst the May Queen is clothed in the white of purity and life. The symbolism of green goes back to very early times. Green was used by the ancient Egyptians to promote growth and fertility in their sacrifices to the Gods. This link with nature makes green a relaxing colour to use in London interior designs.

Yellows can be bright and sunny, symbolic of sunshine and happiness, and are often used in interior designs in London. At the other end, certain shades represent cowardice and disease.

Blues also have dual symbolism. The spiritual virtues of the Virgin Mary link blue with serenity and the cerulean-blue of the clear sky. Darker blues are more reminiscent of dull, angry skies and the misery of depression, and are not as commonly used in interior design projects in London as lighter blues.

Royal purple is well known for its association with pomp and ceremony; it is only rarely used by interior designers in normal domestic interiors due to it’s powerful symbolism.

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