Browse colour families

Colour Families

Most colours have strong associations that help us to understand how these colours can impact the mood of a room.

Red

Red is passionate, romantic and energetic. Dark reds such as Burgundy and Sun Dried Tomato have a rich and elegant feeling. Pale Pinks are comforting and empathetic.

Orange

Orange is a youthful, exuberent and cheerful colour. If a bright orange seems too daring try a rust brown or coral shade.

Yellow

Yellow is optimistic, happy and warm. It can brighten areas with little sunlight and gold and ochre tones create a warm and established atmosphere.

Green

Green is soothing, fresh and versatile. It is nature's favourite colour and because it is easy on the eyes, it is a colour that is soothing and popular.

Blue

Blue is America's favourite colour. It is soothing, cooling and dependable. Aquas are more frivolous and sunny while Navy is a more serious dark colour that is not as somber as black.

Purple

Purple is a romantic, sensual and introspective colour. When a redder shade is used it is vivacious while a bluer shade is more restful. Lavender is gaining in popularity and conveys refinement.

Neutrals

The true neutrals are black, white and grey but any colour that is muted in intensity can be considered a neutral. There are warm and cool neutrals and their versatility is endless.

Browns

Brown is a relaxed neutral that is comforting and nature-oriented. Darker browns are more sophisticated while lighter beiges and tans can be used anywhere. Brown's association with coffee and chocolate make it a sensual colour.