The Colour Red In Office Interior Design
Colour plays a crucial role in shaping the atmosphere, functionality and overall experience of a space.
In office design, colour choices go beyond mere aesthetics, influencing mood, productivity and even team dynamics.
Among the spectrum of colours available, red stands out as one of the most striking and impactful shades.
This post explores the meaning and effects of the colour red in office interiors, offering insights into its usage and benefits.
The Psychology of Red
Red is often associated with energy, passion and excitement.
It is a warm and dynamic colour which can evoke strong emotions and stimulate the senses.
In the context of an office environment, red is known to:
Increase Energy Levels: red has been shown to raise heart rates and stimulate the mind, making it a great choice for spaces where activity and motivation are key.
Encourage Action: the bold nature of red can inspire decisiveness and a sense of urgency, making it suitable for fast-paced work environments.
Foster Passion: red can ignite creativity and passion, which are essential for brainstorming sessions or innovation-focused teams.
Strategic Use of Red in Office Spaces
While red can be powerful, its intensity requires thoughtful application to ensure it enhances, rather than overwhelms, a workspace.
Here are some strategic ways to incorporate red into office interior design:
Accents and Highlights: instead of using red as a dominant colour, consider incorporating it in accents, such as chairs, artwork or office accessories. This approach adds vibrancy without overwhelming the space.
Collaborative Zones: use red in areas designed for collaboration, such as meeting rooms or breakout spaces. Its stimulating qualities can promote active discussions and creative thinking.
Brand Alignment: if red is part of your company’s branding, integrate it subtly into the design to reinforce brand identity while maintaining balance.
Balance with Neutrals: pair red with neutral tones such as white, grey or beige to create a balanced and professional atmosphere. This combination tempers red’s intensity and ensures a harmonious aesthetic.
The Potential Pitfalls of Red
While red has many positive attributes, it’s important to consider its potential downsides:
Overstimulation: excessive use of red can lead to feelings of restlessness or anxiety, particularly in high-pressure environments.
Aggressiveness: in some contexts, red can be perceived as aggressive or confrontational. Avoid using it in spaces meant for relaxation or conflict resolution.
Personal Preferences: individual reactions to red can vary, so consider employee feedback or preferences when integrating this colour into shared spaces.
Red’s Role in Modern Office Design Trends
In modern office design, red is often used to make a bold statement. For instance, open-plan offices may use red to delineate specific zones, while co-working spaces might employ it to create a dynamic feel.
Designers are increasingly using red in innovative ways, blending it with technology and sustainable materials to create vibrant, future-ready workspaces.
The colour red, when used thoughtfully, can play a part in transforming an office into a dynamic and stimulating environment. Its ability to energise, inspire and align with brand identity makes it a valuable tool in the hands of skilled designers.
However, its intensity demands careful consideration to ensure it supports, rather than hinders, productivity and well-being.
Image credit: Leaf Fall Autumn - Free photo on Pixabay
At Fenway®, we design, build, furnish and support office interior spaces in Central London. We responsibly deliver fit-out, refurbishment and alterations projects for occupiers and owners. We are focussed commercial property specialists ready to bring our expertise, energy and experience to your workspace. Contact us now to discuss your plans.