OUGD405 - Studio Brief 01 - Colour Research

Teenagers and colour

Asserting individuality and growth spurts, both physically and emotionally, are typical of this time.

Teenagers go through an identity crisis and often use black to hide this as they feel it is cool. Black needs to be combined with other colours if it is to be used as it is not beneficial to emotional development. It is without light. Using small amounts of fluoro brights will lift the young person away from the feeling of isolation or withdrawal from the world. Red is a favourite bright for this age group – intense energy. Bold blues and citrus greens also provide some tranquillity.

Purple is usually embraced when the mind develops social awareness and outward thoughts – this is later in the teenage years, usually between 14-17 years old. Texture and changing sheens in fabric (matt velvets to silky satins) offer a positive tactile experience to teenagers as well as being seen to be desirable from a cool point of view. At this age a fixation with metal and glass in all forms is prevalent – car fetishes with young boys and jewellery with girls.

Older people and colours
Becoming old can bring about a sense of loneliness and fear so decorating with the elderly in mind needs to address warmth, security and harmony. Variety in the colours in the immediate environment can boost interest in the world and keep cognitive function alive. Older people can be drawn to soft pastels but they may not have the vitality of hue needed to stimulate the mind and mood. Eyesight problems can also impair how the colour is seen and what is seen.

Softer shades of reds and oranges are warming and can help with circulation and energy levels. Peaches, apricots, warm tans, terracottas and pinks can also be used for this purpose. Reflecting on the past and thoughts of a spiritual future can also be reflected in colour choices. Soft blues, lavender mauves and violets are colours that connect to the spiritual or reflective mood. It is interesting to note that blue rinsed hair tints and lavender water are the province of the elderly lady. Studies carried out in nursing/rest homes indicate that soft pinky-beiges contrasted with soft blue/greens are soothing and peaceful. The judicious use of floral pattern can evoke the tranquillity of rural life and the simplicity of times past.