Dr Axel Buether, one of the world’s leading colour experts and pioneer of modern evidence-based colour psychology, has worked in collaboration with flooring manufacturer, Bona, to develop a new colour collection for the education sector

I have studied the effects of colour for decades, and my work spans various industries, including the education sector.

The impact of colour is astounding: the colour of our surroundings significantly influences our moods, emotions, and, ultimately, our wellbeing.

In education, this influence becomes even more critical, as the built environment shapes cognitive, emotional, and social development.

From classrooms to hallways and cafeterias; the careful application of colour ensures that each space is optimally designed for its intended purpose.

The applied research projects I have been involved in focus on the effects of the environmental factor colour – its processing consumes more than 60% of the brain’s neuronal capacity – on human experience, behaviour, wellbeing, and health.

Colour psychology in education

The psychology of colour is a fascinating topic.

The use of colour yields astonishing results, and different colours serve distinct purposes.

In education, colours need to foster a stimulating teaching and learning environment while maintaining balance.

From classrooms to hallways and cafeterias; the careful application of colour ensures that each space is optimally designed for its intended purpose

Too much colour may create sensory overload, affecting concentration and making students and staff feel distracted, anxious, or unwell.

On the other hand, insufficient or poorly-chosen colours can make spaces feel cold, unwelcoming, or monotonous, hindering engagement.

The purposeful use of colour

Colour is an atmospheric environmental factor that can make us tired, listless, and sick; or it can keep us awake, active, and healthy.

It therefore has the strength to shape educational experiences by inspiring young people and sparking creativity.

While some colours may evoke negative outcomes, others can calm or energise, enhancing engagement in learning.

The use of colour is not just about creating aesthetically-pleasing spaces though; it has profound implications for motivation, behaviour, attention, feelings, and performance.

The right colour choices enhance the wellbeing of both students and teachers, with measurable benefits for academic outcomes and emotional health.

For instance, earthy and soothing natural tones, such as sage green and dove blue, can foster concentration and calm, making them ideal for classrooms where alertness, focus, and motivation are key.

Warm, natural accent colours like ochre, clay, and curry tones are perfect for promoting social interactions and creative work, making them well suited for collaborative spaces or art rooms.

In dining areas or break rooms, appetite-stimulating shades inspired by nature, such as berry, olive, and plant-based tones, not only complement the natural colours of food, but also enhance the overall dining experience by promoting relaxation and supporting digestion.

Integrating colour into design

Designing with colour is about more than just walls. I have found that the colour of flooring has a significant impact on how people perceive and interact with a space.

This insight led to my latest collaboration: the development of the Bona Resilient Colour Collection, a pioneering range of flooring products inspired by nature.

Colour is an atmospheric environmental factor that can make us tired, listless, and sick; or it can keep us awake, active, and healthy

These floor colours are specifically designed to perfectly harmonise with a wide range of wall and furnishing colours, enabling a cohesive and purpose-driven design for educational spaces.

The Bona Resilient Colour Collection works beautifully on resilient floor surfaces, including PVC, rubber, vinyl, and linoleum, which are widely used in educational settings.

And this collection brings the outdoors indoors, offering colours inspired by the natural world to create spaces that support wellbeing and connection to nature.

The concept of biophilic design – the integration of natural elements into indoor spaces – is especially effective in education.

By mimicking the calming effects of natural environments, students and staff can experience reduced stress and improved focus, leading to a more-harmonious learning atmosphere.

The connection between colour and wellbeing

By incorporating natural elements into interior spaces, starting with the floor, profound improvements in wellbeing can be achieved.

Evidence shows that natural colour palettes improve physical health and boost trust and confidence, enhance concentration and creativity among students, and improve focus among staff.

Recent research, ‘Colour as a Design Tool: The Effects of Light and Surface Colours on Human Experience and Behaviour in Built Spaces,’ reports that a positive atmosphere can improve the wellbeing of building occupants by up to 100%. This translates directly to education, where optimal colour design can enhance academic performance and emotional resilience.

Schools that integrate effective colour concepts report reduced absenteeism, fewer instances of teacher burnout, and a stronger sense of community among students, staff, and parents

Furthermore, the research highlights the financial benefits of improved design: schools that integrate effective colour concepts report reduced absenteeism, fewer instances of teacher burnout, and a stronger sense of community among students, staff, and parents.

These findings underscore the importance of intentional colour design in addressing challenges such as teacher recruitment and retention.

Designing for engagement and identity

Educational spaces should evoke a sense of identity and belonging.

Colour is a key tool in achieving this, from the entrance foyer to the hallways, classrooms, and shared spaces.

A cohesive colour scheme helps students, parents, and educators connect emotionally with the school environment, fostering pride and engagement.

In addition, colour can support inclusivity and accessibility.

Thoughtful use of high-contrast colours, for example, ensures that spaces are navigable for students with visual impairments.

Combining these design strategies creates environments that are not only beautiful, but also equitable and functional.

Bringing the outdoors in

People thrive in natural environments and connecting with nature has numerous benefits.

Colour schemes in education should draw from nature, using earthy shades and soft tones to radiate warmth and comfort while creating a calm and healing atmosphere.

By mimicking the calming effects of natural environments, students and staff can experience reduced stress and improved focus, leading to a more-harmonious learning atmosphere

To maximise these effects, add splashes of complementary colours through furniture, decor, or learning materials. And tailor these elements to the specific use of the space – whether it’s a classroom, library, or cafeteria.

The transformative power of colour plays a crucial role in shaping the learning environment, influencing wellbeing and supporting educational outcomes.

From walls to floors, every design element contributes to creating spaces that promote focus, creativity, and comfort.

Thoughtfully-designed flooring provides a solid foundation for achieving these goals and integrating colour harmoniously into educational spaces.

https://www.bona.com/en/facility-solutions/design/