The Psychology of Color for the Office - Part 2
- Jennifer DeWitt
- May 19
- 2 min read
Last week, we began our exploration of how color affects productivity in offices. We discovered how different wall colors can enhance various cognitive states - from the analytical focus of blues and greens to the creative stimulation of subdued roses and terracottas.
Today, we continue our journey by examining how flooring, textiles, and lighting interact with wall colors to create a completely harmonious environment for focus and productivity.
Flooring and Textiles: Grounding Elements

Floor coverings and textiles complete my color strategy:
Choose floor coverings that provide a subtle contrast to the walls, creating definition without competition
Incorporate small accents in energizing but complementary colors for elements you interact with directly, such as desk accessories or a statement chair
Consider textiles with complex patterns that incorporate the wall color along with complementary hues to add depth without disconnection
The Impact of Light on Focus Zone Colors

A color strategy must account for how different light sources transform the perceived hue:
Northern exposure tends to cool colors, making warmer tones like terracotta and olive particularly effective for balancing the space
Southern exposure amplifies warmth, allowing deeper tones like Yorktowne Green or Green Smoke to maintain their complexity without becoming overwhelming
Eastern exposure creates warm morning light and cooler afternoon light, making colors like Setting Plaster or Dead Salmon particularly effective as they respond beautifully to changing light
Western exposure provides cooler morning light and warm afternoon light, making colors like Whale Gray or Iced Marble excellent choices as they maintain balance throughout the day
Always test colors in the space at different times of day before committing. What looks perfectly balanced in a showroom can read dramatically different under a home or office’s particular light conditions.
This post continues our series exploring the psychological aspects of interior design through color. Next week, we'll complete our exploration of the office with Part 3, focusing on implementing a strategic color plan that brings all these elements together for specific workspaces.
Ready to implement these strategies? Schedule a consultation to discover how our evidence-based approach to color can transform any office experience.
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