Psychology of Color: Why We Love Certain Shades

Different colors can impact the way we think, what we buy and even our design choices. Find the perfect shade that fits your aesthetic with this helpful guide featuring 18 popular hues.

By: Ryan Reed

Related To:

Did you know that a bright yellow room can promote creativity or that apricot orange can act as an appetite stimulant? This Pinterest-worthy graphic explains the fascinating affect color has on us.

Psychology of Color

Psychology of Color

Photo by: Graphic by Hannah Slaughter

Graphic by Hannah Slaughter

Color Guide

See All Photos

Shop This Look

Next Up

Beautiful Filing Cabinet Makeover

Turn an old filing cabinet into a stylish statement piece for your home office.

Which Color vs. Color Are You?

Personality traits play a major role in the colors we choose to wear and decorate with. Take our quiz and find out which on-trend hue from the spring edition of Color vs. Color you match with, then learn how to use it throughout your home.

3 Ways to Use Leftover Paint

Add decorative touches to household items with your spare cans of paint.

How to Simply Paint a Room

Learn how to paint both walls and molding like a pro with these simple steps.

How to Paint a DIY Mountain Wall Mural

HGTV shows you how to create a custom mountainscape painting. It is easy; no advanced artistic skills are required. It’s also inexpensive, and you can make it any size and color palette you want.

How to Paint an Ombre Effect on a Dresser

Use several shades of the same paint color to bring a colorful touch to a piece of furniture.

HGTV Obsessed Episode 30: Annie Sloan

This episode is all about paint. Annie Sloan, the creator of Chalk Paint® shares her success story. Then Kristin Luna, of Do More Art talks about how outdoor art can transform and uplift communities. Finally, Betsy Helmuth, host of the Affordable Interior Design podcast, shares valuable tips for choosing paint colors.

Paint Glossary: All About Paint, Color and Tools

Learn what type of paint to use, which tools will work best and the basics for picking color schemes.

How to Paint a Staircase

Learn how to paint a decorative runner on a wooden staircase.

30 Black-Owned Home & Lifestyle Brands We Love

Shop with a purpose — today and every day — by supporting these incredible Black-owned home decor brands.

More from:

Color Vs. Color

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.