Choosing a paint color for an office can be a difficult decision. The right blue paint color can create an environment that is productive, creative, calming or energetic. When selecting a blue paint for an office there are several factors to consider including the purpose of the office, the amount of natural light, the size of the space and personal preference. In this article we will look at the psychology behind blue, the different shades of blue and make recommendations for the best blue paint colors for various office settings.
The Psychology of Blue
Blue is often described as a calming, tranquil color that can lower stress and anxiety. Unlike warm colors like red and orange that stimulate the senses, cool blues tend to have a relaxing effect. Lighter blues are thought to promote concentration and productivity. Darker blues are associated with stability, professionalism and authority. Here is a quick overview of the meanings associated with shades of blue:
– Light blue: Peaceful, tranquil, intelligent
– Sky blue: Calming, serene, ethereal
– Royal blue: Confident, dignified, professional
– Navy blue: Authoritative, powerful, corporate
– Baby blue: Soft, sweet, nurturing
So when considering blue paint for an office, think about the mood you want to cultivate. Lighter blues like sky blue may be better suited to creative spaces where you want to inspire innovation. Darker blues like navy work well in corporate settings where you want to project competence.
Factoring in Natural Light
The amount of natural light an office space receives should play a role in choosing a blue. Lighter blues will brighten up a dark space but can look cold and stark in a room flooded with light. Dark blues will add warmth in a sun-filled room but can make a dim office feel too gloomy. Here are some recommendations:
– Sunny office: Go for a deep or bright medium blue. Navy blue or royal blue are both good choices.
– Low natural light: Pastel blue or light sky blue will keep the space feeling bright and airy.
– Medium natural light: A soft powder blue is a flexible choice.
Take note of which direction the office faces as well. North-facing rooms will receive less direct sun while south-facing rooms will get more.
Consider the Size of the Space
A room’s size should also impact your choice of blue. Dark blues can make a small room feel cramped. Light blues will open up a small space. For large offices, a pale blue might look washed out or bland. Deep blue is bold enough to hold its own.
– Small office: Stick to light airy blues like sky blue or periwinkle.
– Medium office: Powder blue or muted medium blues work well.
– Large office: Navy blue, royal blue or cobalt blue will suit nicely.
You’ll want to avoid going too dark or too bright for the size of the space.
Purpose of the Office
Consider the office’s purpose and opt for a blue to match. Here are some recommendations:
– Executive office: Navy blue conveys authority and confidence.
– Corporate office: Royal blue or slate blue project professionalism.
– Creative office: A bright sky blue stimulates creativity.
– Healthcare office: Pale blue is calming and soothing.
– Financial office: Conservative navy blue inspires trust.
So be sure to keep in mind the work being done and the impression you want the space to give. A bank manager’s office will demand a different color than a children’s art studio.
Personal Preference
While considering all the factors that go into choosing an office blue, don’t forget about personal preference. Select a color you find attractive and enjoyable since you’ll likely be spending a great deal of time there. Cool blues aren’t for everyone – if you prefer warm tones go for a blue with subtle yellow undertones. Don’t override your own instincts just to follow the “rules” of color psychology. The office should reflect your own taste.
Best Blue Paint Colors for Offices
Now that we’ve looked at the various factors to consider, here is a list of the best blue paint colors for offices:
Peaceful Pale Blues
– Behr Marquee Sky Watch – A very soft, dreamy sky blue. Perfect for a creative, lively office space.
– Benjamin Moore Wisp – A barely blue, quiet grey-blue. A top choice for a relaxing, zen-like office.
– Sherwin-Williams Naval – A light powder blue similar to robin’s egg color. Cheerful and calm.
– Valspar Lakeshore Fog – A restful, elegant shade of blue-gray. Ideal for a professional healthcare office.
Productive Medium Blues
– Behr Pale Stream – A smooth muted blue, reminiscent of a pebble washed over time in a riverbed.
– Benjamin Moore Quiet Moments – A romantic, fanciful blue. Stimulating but serene.
– Sherwin-Williams Tradewind – A tropical medium blue, breezy and bright.
– Valspar Seaglass – A soft green-tinted blue, peaceful and comforting.
Authoritative Dark Blues
– Behr Mysterious – A regal, majestic blue perfect for an executive office.
– Benjamin Moore Hale Navy – A classic navy that projects confidence, professionalism and strength.
– Sherwin-Williams Naval – A rich navy blue that conveys trust and integrity.
– Valspar Deep Sea – A soothing, inky blue similar to the deepest depths of ocean waters.
Vibrant Bright Blues
– Behr Island Oasis – An aqua blue brimming with energy and vibrancy.
– Benjamin Moore Nebulous Blue – A striking contemporary blue. For the innovative thinker.
– Sherwin-Williams Jay Bird – A brilliant jewel-toned blue. Makes a bold creative statement.
– Valspar Starfish – A happy, bright blue. Uplifting and spirited.
Coordinating Blue Office Color Schemes
While blue can work well on its own, you may want to pull in coordinating accent colors to give the office more visual interest. Here are some recommended color schemes:
Blue and Green
Blue and green are analogous colors, meaning they sit next to each other on the color wheel. This makes them naturally complementary. Try pairing a minty green with a sky blue for a soothing, spa-like office. Or match a grassy sage green with a turquoise blue for an earthy, tranquil space.
Blue and Yellow
These are complementary colors opposite each other on the wheel. Contrast a sunny yellow against a deeper navy blue for a bold, vibrant office. Or choose pale buttery yellow accents for a softer look with a light airy blue as the main color.
Blue and White
Crisp white trim is a classic accent color for any shade of blue. White helps lighten up darker blues and keeps pale blues looking bright and fresh. White furnishings and accessories allow the blue color to take center stage.
Blue and Grey
Mixing blue with grey results in sophisticated, professional color combinations. Try a slate blue with dark charcoal grey accents or a powder blue with a warm taupe grey. Grey tempers the energy of blue.
Blue and Brown
Earthy browns help ground bright blues and keep them from feeling overwhelming. Nautical navy blue and tan is a durable combo for an office. Or pair sky blue walls with chocolate brown furnishings and decor.
Tips for Painting an Office Blue
Once you’ve selected the perfect blue paint color for your office, here are some tips to ensure it looks its best:
– Prime walls before painting for bolder color and easier application.
– Use flat or eggshell finish for walls to minimize imperfections. Use semi-gloss on trim.
– Paint ceilings white to give the illusion of higher ceilings.
– Add crown molding for a classic finish with blue walls.
– Include white or neutral-colored built-ins and cabinetry to allow the blue color to stand out.
– Install pendant lighting to brighten up a dark navy blue office.
– Add splashes of color with art, area rugs and accent pillows. Don’t overdo it.
– Include live plants and flowers to add natural vibrancy.
– Use sheer white curtains to soften the blue color near windows.
Following these tips will ensure your blue office paint job has maximum visual impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about choosing blue paint for an office:
Is blue good for office walls?
Yes, blue is an excellent color choice for office walls. Many shades of blue promote productivity, creativity and focus. Blue is calming yet stimulating, professional yet friendly. Just avoid very dark blues for small offices.
What blue goes well with wood trim?
A navy or royal blue pairs nicely with warm wood trim and floors. Soft powdery blues also complement wood tones. For a beachy look try a aqua blue with natural wood.
Can I use dark blue in a small office?
It’s best to avoid very dark blues like navy in a small office space as this can make the room feel closed in. Opt for lighter sky blues or pale blues. If going darker, choose a medium-light shade like periwinkle or muted slate blue.
Is blue good for concentration?
Many lighter and brighter blues are believed to improve concentration. Blue shades like sky blue, robin’s egg blue and turquoise enhance focus and clarity of thought. Avoid navy or gray-toned blues if concentration is a priority.
What color furniture goes with blue walls?
White or beige furniture allows blue walls to take center stage. Wood pieces also pair nicely. Chrome and metal finishes add modern flair. Incorporate neutral-toned patterned rugs and armchairs to pull the space together.
Conclusion
Selecting the ideal blue paint color for an office depends on several factors including the room size, natural lighting, purpose and personal preference. Light sky blues and pale powder blues promote relaxation and calm. Vibrant bright blues foster creativity and energy. Classic navy blues project professionalism and confidence. Whether you want to simulate productivity or creativity, there is a perfect blue office paint color for your needs. Follow the tips above to ensure your blue office walls look their absolute best.
