Neuroaesthetics - Q&A

1/ Did the nursery need to declutter as part of the project to help with children's neurodivergence?

When we first visited, there were a lot of toys and old furniture, but the school handled that. My goal was to design a space that wasn’t overwhelming, with fewer toys and games to create a calming environment. It’s done intentionally to support the children's imagination and curiosity, with open spaces and minimal clutter to enhance their experience.

2/ What are your thoughts on the use of sound and music in this space?

Sound and music need to be adaptable. Constant music might cause sensory overload for some children, while others may enjoy it. We’ve included speakers, and the interactive light game responds to sound, which has received positive feedback. The key is flexibility, allowing children to explore sound and sight in a way that works for them.

3/ You’ve covered the use of color well, but can you expand on the use of patterns when designing for neurodiverse children?

For patterns, we chose ones that connect to nature. We used a bark-like textured wallpaper and a soft, watercolour forest mural. Both are playful but not overwhelming, with organic shapes and gentle colors that create a calming environment for the children without harsh lines or angles.

4/ What should designers keep in mind when planning future projects involving the use of colour?

Designers should use colour with purpose, often to define zones within a space, like using vibrant colours for collaboration areas and calmer tones for quiet zones. It’s important to consider how colour impacts mood, well-being, and how long people stay in a space. Bright, bold colours can be used effectively but should be applied thoughtfully and not overpower the environment.

1/ Why is it important for designers to apply Colour & Design Psychology early in the process, and how does it impact a project's success?

Colour is often an afterthought, seen as decoration. However, when we recognize colour's ability to influence behavior, it becomes essential. Designing a space with intended user behaviors in mind from the start informs the choice of colours, materials, and finishes. This approach is logical, measurable, and eliminates guesswork—leading to better project outcomes.

2/ What are your thoughts on 'colour drenching' a space?

Colour drenching, where a dominant colour covers walls, floors, ceilings, and even furniture, is a bold trend that creates an immersive, dramatic effect. It evokes strong emotions depending on the colour, saturation, and context. While it can provide a "wow" factor and instant impact, it may not support long-term emotional well-being. Additionally, it can pose safety issues for those with difficulty distinguishing surfaces, raising concerns about its inclusivity.

3/ What hue, tone, or shade for a neurodivergent teen?

It's great you're considering colours to support a neurodivergent teen, but there's no one-size-fits-all approach. As Dr. Stephen Shore says, "if you've met one person with autism, you've met one person with autism." And it’s the same with any neurodivergent style. What works for one person won’t necessarily work for another. Each individual has unique needs. My approach, shared in the webinar, involves an interdisciplinary team to gather information. I then provide guidance on the colour palette and design style that best supports the teen's specific needs, using Applied Colour and Design Psychology.

4/ Why does blue feel more spacious than red? Does it relate to blue being more trustworthy?

Light blue creates an illusion of more space due to its lightness. In contrast, red feels more intense because its wavelength advances towards us faster, making it more attention-grabbing. It's not that blue is inherently more spacious, but lighter colors give the illusion of space, while red demands attention.

5/ How do we design larger spaces like offices or hotels when one color may annoy one person but excite another?

It's key to understand your target market. Each hotel or office has different goals and clientele—some want a relaxed vibe, others a more energetic feel. The design should align with the desired behavior of the visitors, whether it's to make them stay longer, feel energized, or relaxed. Tailor the color and design to achieve the client's goals for the space.

6/ Is dark blue really calming, despite the common belief that blue is always calm?

Dark blue isn’t necessarily calm. The calming effect of blue depends on its saturation, with lighter blues generally feeling more soothing, while darker blues can feel more intense.

7/ What are some misconceptions about color usage in design, and how can applied color and design psychology help correct them?

One big misconception is the idea of "neutral" colors—there's no such thing. For example, not all pinks are soothing—bright pinks like magenta or Barbie pink can be energizing. Similarly, lime green and turquoise blue have too much yellow to be relaxing, making them unsuitable for spaces like bedrooms. Another misconception is that gray is sophisticated, but it can feel draining for many people. Design psychology helps by considering how color, lighting, and context affect emotions and behaviors, ensuring spaces align with their intended purpose.

8/ Do low-saturation colors make you feel calmer and more likely to stay in a space?

Low-saturation colors like light pinks or blues can be soothing, but their effect varies based on personal preference and context. While they may create a calming environment, it doesn't guarantee that someone will want to stay longer. Some people might find muted colors unappealing. It's not a one-size-fits-all answer—how the color interacts with other design elements and the individual's preferences matters too. The emotional impact of color is complex, just like we are.

Project related questions? Ask the interior designer or color specialist.