It’s not a surprise that color is a huge component of how we experience our environment, but are you taking that into account when you choose colors for your home? You may love a white room, but did you know you may be inadvertently making a room less cozy and too sterile with too much white? Or that green is the perfect choice for an entryway because it eases the transition from the outdoors?

Modern color psychology dates back to its origins in the early 19th century with a scholarly book known as Theory of Colors. Though there is some debate regarding the implications of certain shades, researchers, interior designers and marketing professionals seem to agree on these basic tenants:

Red: Symbolizes power and passion. It can be used to warm up spaces and make them feel more intimate.

Orange: Offers a jolt of energy and innovation. It’s best used as an accent because too much can leave people feeling overwhelmed.

Yellow: Associated with happiness, creation, and creativity. It works well in combination with a calming neutral and in rooms with lots of natural light to create a peaceful environment.

Green: Known for its soothing qualities. Green is the perfect choice for a foyer or entryway because it eases the transition from the outdoors.

Blue: Perpetuates feelings of calm and freshness. It’s a good fit for high traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

Purple: Connotes royalty and luxury. Purple is a great choice for formal living rooms or master bedrooms because it adds an air of lush sophistication.

Gray: Gives a sense of relaxation and serenity. Use gray in spaces like home offices or bathrooms.

Brown: Like green, brown’s natural roots give it a relaxing touch. Choose it for rooms where the family gathers and furniture groupings that will incite conversation.

Black: An assertion of power. Use black for statement pieces that you want to draw the eye.

White: Relates a sense of cleanliness and purity. It is great for defining a space, but use white in conjunction with other colors since too much reads as sterile.

Remember, when you choose which colors to include in your interior, three picks are better than one. Choose a neutral for the largest items like walls and flooring, a calmer color for furniture and other sturdy items. Then, pick a third more dramatic color to pop in your statement accessories and décor.