If you’ve ever looked up in awe at the wondrous colors of a rainbow, welcome to the club. Even though you might not notice it, hues have a magical way of lifting our spirits and lightening our mood. Color psychology is real, and the feelings we get from our favorite tones can transform how we live. Using paint colors strategically in your home can turn a ho-hum space into an ahh-inducing retreat. Here’s what you need to know to create the vibe you want using colors you love.

Gray 

Many use light and dark gray paint to cultivate an edgy, sophisticated look. Gray is industrial and versatile, and brings a touch of color to an otherwise bland area. 

Mood-boosting benefits: Known for enhancing productivity, gray can motivate you to stay focused. 

Where to use it: Adding a gray accent wall to your home office modernizes the space while maintaining a cozy environment.

Keep in mind: Going overboard with gray can dampen your home’s mood. Use it sparingly to complement your color scheme.

Yellow 

The happiest of colors, cheery yellow can influence joy and instantly enliven a room. 

Mood-boosting benefits: Bright yellow encourages imagination, enthusiasm, and optimism. 

Where to use it: Bring the sunny shade indoors and build excitement with an accent wall in kids’ rooms and family gathering spaces. 

Keep in mind: Households with kids should steer clear of darker yellows, as some studies claim that mustard increases crying in babies. Instead, stick to a lemonade tone to keep your kiddo’s spirits high.

Pink 

Often associated with outdated powder rooms, people have strayed away from pink walls. However, they’re beginning to make a comeback for their fun burst of color. 

Mood-boosting benefits: Pink is energizing and playful. 

Where to use it: Putting pink in your bedroom, bathroom, or other places you get ready in the morning can give you a go-get-’em push as the sun rises. 

Keep in mind: Pass on the bubble gum shades and hold to natural tones—think about recreating a pink sand beach.

Green 

Green is synonymous with new beginnings, and painting walls green is ideal for elevating your home and prompting beneficial change. 

Mood-boosting benefits: Earthy green stimulates personal growth and has a calming effect. 

Where to use it: Using green paint in places you concentrate on growth, such as your gym or a reading nook, can relieve stress and promote relaxation. 

Keep in mind: After choosing your paint color, incorporate varying shades of green plants, throw pillows, and rugs for a gorgeous, natural forest look.

Purple 

This regal hue can spur creativity and provide balance. From deep violet to pale lavender, it’s easy to make a statement.

Mood-boosting benefits: Purple nurtures creativity and luxury. 

Where to use it: Paint purple where you like to create or spend time with others. It’s practical for an office, workout area, family room, or child’s playroom. 

Keep in mind: Decorate with nature-inspired colors (like green and yellow) to offset purple’s intensity.

White 

White can be anything but boring. When used with intention, it has the power to transform a dark space into the light and airy room you need. 

Mood-boosting benefits: Crisp white suggests cleanliness, purity, and serenity. 

Where to use it: Your kitchen, bathrooms, and dining room all offer fantastic opportunities to use white and produce an open and inviting escape. 

Keep in mind: If white feels too much like a doctor’s office, switch it up with off-white paint.