Quiet beige cubicles and carpeting with off-white walls have been normal color schemes in office spaces for many years, but now trends show that bold colors are in and they can set the tone for a positive office experience.
Read on and see what colors and office designs can do for your space and brand.
What is Color?
Light bounces off or reflects off an object and we see the colors. Color is “the aspect of things caused by differing qualities of light being reflected or emitted by them” as defined by Pantone.com.
We interpret the colors and they can influence our energy levels and emotions. And those personal traits influence how well we perform our jobs.
How Colors Impact Office Moods and Well-Being
Colors add depth, and warmth, and stir up creativity—or end up creating a dull environment, depending on your color scheme.
Imagine having an office decorated all in white: walls, chairs, and cubicles. You’re lost in a sea of white. It would seem stark, strange, and even disorienting. Browns and other monotone color schemes wouldn’t work, either.
Who wants to work surrounded by gray cinder-block walls?
Now, if those gray walls had hardwood décor or splashes of magenta they could be fun.
Photo: Source International Axis Chair
On the 2010 Office Furniture Office Inspirations web page, you can compare various office settings and see how colors and furnishings establish the setting and tone so work areas can feel spacious and inviting.
In a preview of the upcoming industry trade show NeoCon in Chicago, June 2023, interior designer Pallavi Dean of Roar, a Dubai-based interior design studio, told DeZeen magazine that, “The safe beige, grey, and white walls are on their way out.”
She says bold hues and darker tones add depth to space.
Photo: Source International Scape Seating
Click on The Modern Industrial Office which uses wood, metal, and red brick. Let in plenty of light and the space can convey strength and efficiency instead of being dark and overpowering.
Photo: Source International Lore Chair
Dean also believes, “We’re leaving the haven of neutrals and stepping into a rainbow!”
Look at the Abstract Modern Office and how a range of bold colors creates a playful and energetic atmosphere.
What color patterns are right for your office?
It will depend on the ambiance you want to create, so read the listing of colors and the moods they create.
Qualities of Colors and Their Impact
As you consider color schemes, remember that every color has variations. So there isn’t just one blue or red, but there are numerous shades of light blue leading to a color like teal and darker blues.
The advice of Dean is to, “Tread with caution when you choose your shade; it can impact your mood and change your perception of the size of your space.”
A comprehensive summary is found in a timeless article in Smashing Magazine which lists:
- Warm colors: red, yellow, and orange—think autumn leaves.
- Cool colors: green, blue, and purple—water and night. These colors are relaxing.
- Neutral colors: black, white, gray, brown, beige, and tan. These colors serve as backgrounds and can convey elegance. Brown offers warmth and wholesomeness.
Shades of blue may help reduce tensions, foster relaxation, and lead to greater employee output while yellows can get creative juices flowing. A 2018 article in LinkedIn’s Pulse, “The Surprising Effect of Color in the Office” says that “white is the worst color to paint the office” since it’s sterile and can “hinder productivity.”
Match Furnishings with Your Environment
Creating the best office designs and color schemes for your office has never been easier. If you want to refresh your office to reflect your brand and make your space a destination, then choose from the types of furnishings in the color patterns that work best.
For example, the DARRAN Chameleon Workspace comes in a variety of veneer, laminate, and metal finishes.
Photo: DARRAN Chameleon Workspace
It might fit with the Green Office or the Abstract Modern Office, depending on the colors you choose.
Photo: Rouillard Lead X Chair
Choose the right office color schemes of your ergonomic chairs and lounge furniture to blend in.
Leverage Color for Maximum Office Productivity
Photo: Source International Repeat Benches
You’re in control of your office space—from workstations to the colors of your breakroom. The available color combinations for a range of modular furniture give you the opportunity to make an environment that reflects your brand and sets the tone for your team.
Benefit from Office Color Schemes Experts
Plan your space and choose office color schemes for furnishings with expert input from the team at 2010 Office Furniture. They have over a half-century of experience assisting clients who are among Southern California’s most distinguished corporations, nonprofits, and small businesses.
Contact them with your project needs and questions.
Read Also: Design Your Office Space for Residential Comfort and Professional Results
Main Photo: Stylex Dau Seating
Resources & Special Thanks to Respective Product Manufacturers: DARRAN, Rouillard, Source International & Stylex
