Warm vs. cold decors – how do they affect the interior?

Did you know that choosing decorations is more than just an aesthetic decision? It is also a way to create an atmosphere in the interior. Some shades make the space seem cosier and warmer, others give it a cool, elegant character. Whether you choose warm beiges, caramel browns and off-whites, or rather opt for austere greys or cool shades inspired by graphite or concrete, will not only affect the appearance of the room, but also how you feel in it.

Warm colours contain a touch of yellow, red or orange, which makes them feel friendly, energetic and cosy. They are associated with natural light – the brightness of the sun, flames of a bonfire, the colour of autumn leaves or sand on the beach. That is why they create a feeling of comfort and make interiors seem warmer. This group includes shades of beige, off-white, caramel, browns, brick reds, honey yellows and rusty terracotta. Interiors decorated in this colour scheme are cosy and harmonious, but it is worth remembering that intense, deep shades can make a room look smaller. Therefore, in smaller rooms, they work better in accents or in combination with lighter colours that balance their intensity. They are most commonly used in living rooms, bedrooms and dining rooms, where they promote relaxation and create a pleasant, warm atmosphere. They are also perfect for restaurants, hotels and cafés, adding cosiness and a welcoming feel to the interior.

Cool colours are shades in which blue, green or purple dominate, making them perceived as fresh, soothing and elegant. They are associated with nature in its calm, balanced form – the winter sky, the depths of the ocean, mountain lakes or the shade of trees. They have the ability to optically enlarge space, which is why they are perfect for smaller interiors, adding lightness and freshness. The cool palette includes shades of light grey, ice blue, bottle green, graphite, muted turquoise and deep navy blue. Cool colours promote concentration and calmness, which is why they are often used in offices, where they support focus and efficiency, in bathrooms, where they create an impression of freshness and cleanliness, and in minimalist arrangements, emphasising their elegance and modern character. They are also perfect for commercial spaces such as offices, reception areas and spas, where they help create an atmosphere of calm and professionalism.

Choosing decors is one thing, but how they look in different lighting conditions is equally important. Light can have a warm or cold colour temperature – both natural and artificial. In warm light (e.g. natural light at sunset or artificial light with a colour temperature of 2700-3000K), warm tones become even more intense and cosy, while cool tones can take on a softer, slightly softer appearance. In contrast, in cool light (e.g. on a cloudy day or under cool 5000-6000K LED bulbs), warm colours can appear more subdued and cool colours can appear more stark and expressive.

The perception of colours also depends to a large extent on the orientation of the room. Rooms with north-facing windows receive cooler, diffused light, which can make warm shades less expressive and cool shades even more pronounced. In contrast, south-facing rooms are bathed in warm, sunny light for most of the day, which brings out the depth of the colours and makes even cool decors look a little warmer. East and west light, on the other hand, change throughout the day, which can affect the perception of decors at different times. Therefore, when planning the colour palette in the interior, it is worth taking into account both artificial and natural lighting and its direction.

• To visually enlarge a space, it is worth using light, cool colours that reflect light and make the interior look lighter.
• If you want a cosy effect, warm shades of beige, brown and off-white are the best choice.
• Cool decors work well in modern, minimalist interiors.
• Warm accents in cool interiors – e.g. wooden furniture in the kitchen with a grey worktop and floor – will make the space warmer and more welcoming.

The right combination of colours and decorations not only achieves the desired style effect, but also influences the atmosphere of the interior, adapting it to individual needs and lifestyle.

Check also: How to brighten up an interior?