The Nature of Color
What element most influences the mood of a room? Color! And what most influences our response to color? The way it occurs in nature. To create the mood you desire in a room, take your cue from nature. Observe the play and mix of color in the natural world; then translate that color confidently into your home.

Yellow, orange and red are associated with sun and fire, so we think of these colors as warm, cheerful and inviting. Hues of blue, at the other end of the spectrum, remind us of cool mountain lakes and oceans -- tranquil and refreshing.

Designer Tips

• Yellow, the color of sunshine and spring flowers, brings warmth and lightness to a home. It reflects light and can be used to brighten a dark room.
• Tones of orange, tan and golden brown are warm, cosy colors, popular for sitting rooms. Brighter accents can enliven a basic color scheme of neutral browns.
• Plums and purples have a formal, almost regal association - the result of cultural influences rather than their presence in nature. Select strong purples to deliver impact and drama, and use paler tints of mauve and lavender to create a subtle, delicate effect.

Read more about Culture Zapping color into your design.