Colour is a strong, positive force that affects every person. We are learning that colour plays a strong part in determining our mental attitudes, our moods and our general outlook. Often we are not conscious of its influence. Pleasure in colour is universal and its importance continues to grow as we learn more about the fascinating secrets colour holds.

In the field of interior design we are greatly concerned with colour. One of the fields that we see more involvement in is the importance of colour and its effect on our behavior. In home decorating we have unlimited opportunity to use colour correctly or incorrectly, and the results of its use directly affect the lives of people.

It is interesting to note that there are over one million colours. All of these are variations of the three primary colours--red, yellow and blue. Warm and cool colours are so called because of the feelings they create. Colours that use red are considered warm colours. This is because of the association with fire and sunlight. Colours containing blue are considered cool colours, as they relate to the sky, the mountains and cool water.

A safe guide when using colour is -- the larger the area, the softer the colour should be; the smaller the area, the brighter the colour can be. Consequently, the ceiling, walls and floors would be considered to be the larger areas. The sofa, chairs and draperies could be considered lesser areas and accessories small areas.

Make a point of becoming aware of the use of colour around you. Remember that colour is that part of interior decorating that can give any room a living quality or can make it dull an uninspired.

BUILD A COLOUR SCHEME
When we build a colour scheme the first thing we must consider is individual taste. What colours do members of the family feel most comfortable with, or what colour represents the corporate image?

Next consider the structure and shape of the room. Consider architectural features such as doors, windows, fireplaces, built-in cupboards. The size and sun exposure of the room is very important. Is the room small or large? Do the windows face south or north? How much sun a room gets is an important consideration.

The character and function of the room are the next considerations. What is this room used for? What mood is to be established so that this room will best serve its purpose?

When we have answered the above questions we are on our way to creating the atmosphere we hope to achieve.