The Psychology of Red Kitchens
Choosing the correct colour scheme can affect the overall design of a kitchen as well as how you feel in it – but why and how? In the first of a series of posts, we explore the psychology of red kitchens.
As a highly energetic colour, red is closely associated with passion. Its warmth is emotive and is often used to express both love and peril. Due to its association with danger as well as food sources (a link to our hunter gather days), red has a dramatic effect on the human psyche, causing changes in metabolism, respiration rate, appetite and blood pressure.
Obviously, there are many shades of red, from rich maroon to vibrant scarlet and some, such as crimson or cinnabar, have subtle additions of blue or yellow. These different hues accentuate specific emotive responses and alter the feeling of a kitchen when used.
Eating Room Red by Farrow & Ball is a prime example of how red can be transformed when different colours are added to produce an alternative shade. It is a rich burgundy and has an air of restrained sophistication due to the deep pigmentation which reduces its energy – a fact that is apparent when you compare it to true red.
How to Use Red Effectively in a Kitchen
Using red in a kitchen is a great way to create a bold look – perfect if you want to make a statement. For those wanting a subtler design, including red in moderation can be done easily with accessories or small appliances. In this kitchen, attention is drawn to the red island which is balanced against a more neutral background.
Pair red cabinet doors and a pale solid maple worktop for a striking look. Using different coloured base and wall cabinets is a great way to ensure that the red does not overpower the room, particularly in smaller spaces.
Key Considerations
- •Instil feelings of passion, love, warmth and excitement
- •Easy to use in moderation for a subtler look
- •Pair with neutral colours
- •Consider using red accents
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