Have you ever noticed that when you walk into a spa you immediately feel more serene? Most yoga studios understand the importance of a calming color palette as well, and it is not by chance. Color has long been known to be a powerful communication tool and can be used to generate reactions, alter thinking, suppress or stimulate appetite and can even raise blood pressure — so just imagine how important color choices are in our homes.
The Environmental Protection Agency reports that the average American spends 87 percent of their time indoors, so to say that interior design and color choices are important is an understatement. And no one knows this better than Florence McLaughlin, the color specialist behind Mill Valley’s Eye For Color. She says, “To create a feeling of well-being, you need to feel cozy and cared for. Color can achieve that.” One important factor to keep in mind is that “it differs from room to room because the same color will read differently depending on the amount of light.”
Where to start? “Soft muted tones like water colors can contribute to your wellness,” says McLaughlin. And perhaps more important in a place like Marin, you should take inspiration from the surrounding nature. “If you have a fig tree outside consider that for your palette. If you live by the water use the bay colors with its grays, blues and greens,” she adds, recommending that you change the colors every couple of years.
But color choices extend past what you use on the walls. Linens, textiles and furniture all contribute to the overall ambiance of a space — and are much easier to swap out when you need a change. “Surround yourself in really comfortable fabrics and textiles. Wear cashmere and linen. Add a throw made of natural fibers like alpaca or even nice cotton and lots of faux fur,” says McLaughlin, adding that her favorite shop for these items is Coyuchi in Point Reyes, because the brand uses organic and sustainable materials. “Wrapping ourselves in comfort is really important for wellness. And choose all-natural fibers for clothing, sleepwear, bedding and throws — in your favorite color scheme, of course.”
