Colour plays a powerful role in how we experience the world. From the clothes we wear to the way we decorate our homes, colour can influence our emotions, energy levels, and even decision-making. While decorating with your favourite shades may feel like a personal choice, colour psychology and ancient practices like Feng Shui suggest that certain colours can have negative effects if used excessively or in the wrong setting. Here’s a look at 10 colours that may disrupt the energy in your home and why they should be used with caution.
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Dark or harsh black can feel overwhelming
Black is a classic choice for modern, minimalist interiors, and its sleek appearance makes it a popular accent. However, when used too generously, especially on walls or large furniture pieces, black can absorb light and make a room feel small, heavy, and gloomy. This darkness can reduce a sense of openness and negatively impact your mood. If you enjoy the look of black, consider using it sparingly as an accent, such as in accessories or a single piece of furniture, and pair it with lighter hues to balance the overall space.
Intense red may create restlessness
Red is a bold, energetic colour often associated with passion, power, and alertness. While it can be eye-catching and dynamic, intense shades of red are not ideal for spaces meant for relaxation, such as bedrooms or living rooms. Overuse of red can lead to feelings of anxiety, aggression, or overstimulation. However, it can work in smaller doses in rooms where high energy is appropriate, like a dining area, where red is believed to stimulate appetite.
Overpowering orange can clash and cause discomfort
Bright orange carries similar risks to red. While it can evoke enthusiasm and creativity, its overpowering nature can quickly become visually jarring and difficult to pair with other colours. Too much orange may create a chaotic or uncomfortable atmosphere, particularly in intimate or calm settings. Using it in moderation, perhaps through a small decorative element or accent wall, is a safer way to harness its vibrant energy.
Bright yellow can lead to eye strain and irritability
Yellow is often thought of as a cheerful and uplifting colour, but when used in high saturation or over large areas, it can be surprisingly overstimulating. Bright yellow may cause eye strain and even trigger feelings of frustration or restlessness. This is particularly problematic in spaces designed for relaxation, like bedrooms and lounges. Softer tones like pastel yellow can maintain a sunny vibe without overwhelming the senses.
Neon or fluorescent colours can feel chaotic
Neon colours are attention-grabbing and vibrant, but they can create a sense of visual clutter and chaos in the home. These bold shades are often difficult to live with long-term due to their intensity and rapid trend cycles. Rooms decorated with neon tones may feel overstimulating and are likely to go out of fashion quickly. If you love bright accents, try using them in artwork or small decor pieces that can be changed out easily.
Cold grey may feel lifeless or bleak
Grey is widely used as a neutral base in interior design, but colder shades of grey can make a room feel flat and unwelcoming. Without the warmth of undertones like beige, blush, or blue, grey may create a sterile or even depressing atmosphere. To avoid this, balance cold greys with warmer textures, natural materials, or colourful accents that add softness and warmth.
Muddy brown can dull a space
While earthy tones can bring comfort and grounding energy, muddy or overly dark browns may make a room feel heavy, uninspired, and dark. This is especially true in small spaces with limited natural light. Instead, opt for warmer shades like taupe, caramel, or tan to maintain a cosy yet lively feeling.
Stark white can feel cold and clinical
White is often used to brighten a space and create a clean aesthetic, but too much stark white can feel sterile, much like a hospital environment. A room that lacks contrast or texture in an all-white scheme may end up feeling flat and uninviting. Soften the look with warm neutrals, pastel tones, or layered textures through fabrics, rugs, and furnishings to add comfort and interest.
Saturated or dark purple can feel too dramatic
Rich purples like eggplant or deep plum may seem luxurious, but in large amounts they can feel too intense, moody, or sombre. These shades may also make social or relaxation spaces feel overly serious or enclosed. Lighter tones like lavender or mauve provide a more calming and sophisticated alternative that still adds personality to a space.
Heavy green can be jarring rather than calming
While green is often associated with balance and nature, very dark or intense shades can lose that soothing quality. Bold greens may come across as jarring and create discomfort if used too heavily. Softer greens like sage, mint, or olive are more effective at creating a tranquil and harmonious environment.When decorating your home, it’s important to balance personal taste with how different colours influence your mood and space. If you’re drawn to bold or darker tones, consider using them in moderation and pairing them with softer or warmer hues to avoid visual imbalance. The right colour choices can transform your home into a space that feels peaceful, energised, and inviting.Also Read: 6 common mistakes that are slowly killing your aloe vera plant and how to fix them
