EVERYTHING IS BETTER IN COLOUR
Joie de vivre and bon appetit! How colours and materials can affect our mood and eating habits.
As early as the 19th century, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe already noted that experience teaches us that individual colours can arouse and intensify emotions and moods. Knowledge of the effects of individual colours is harnessed in a wide range of areas, such as advertising and light and colour therapy. And most people will certainly have heard that cold colours like blue are calming and warm colours like red, yellow and orange are considered to have a stimulating effect.
Indeed, there is no longer any doubt that colours, shapes, light and materials have a direct influence on how we feel. It is hardly surprising, therefore, that special emphasis is given to this notion in professional interior design. Colours and shapes also play an important role in the design of dining halls and canteens.
Young diners love colour and diversity
For catering in nurseries and primary schools, the focus should be on a cheerful design that nurtures trust – bright colours, harmonious shapes and a personalised design are guaranteed to create a relaxed atmosphere that promotes good moods all round.
Colours reminiscent of fresh fruit and vegetables automatically send signals to the brain that stimulate the appetite. Yellow, red, green and orange offer numerous fresh and cheerful nuances that can make even the most stubborn veggie-haters and fruit-refusers crave a fresh slice of nature on their plate.
The big kids want urban style
Style and atmosphere are well received by older pupils, teenagers and students. Things can certainly be a little more grown-up for this group: subtle or stylish colours like broom yellow or petrol green and laid-back wood designs are particularly on trend. However, timeless classics such as grey, white and black are always good choices for these target groups, too.
Individuality for identification and acceptance
The skilful use of colours and shapes creates a good atmosphere in the canteen – and can thus lead to a significant increase in visit frequency, too. The icing on the cake when it comes to design lies in true individuality, such as the use of the school logo, the children's artwork or a unique colour chosen by the pupils. This high degree of personalisation is subsequently reflected in the resounding acceptance of the canteen among pupils. It becomes a meeting place, the place to be, a space that pupils are proud of and simply enjoy being in.
Colours and their effect
In colour psychology, colours are thought to have direct effects on the body and soul. In everyday life, however, colours are rarely used in such absoluteness. It is their skilful combination and the plethora of mixed, intermediate tones that ultimately determine the effect. Below is a summary of the main basic colours and the properties that are attributed to them:
Red
stands for vitality and energy. Red can activate and bring warmth. It stimulates the circulation, metabolism and immune system. In rooms, red should only be used as a highlight, as too much red can make people restless.
Orange
is a symbol of optimism and joie de vivre. Orange is a mood enhancer and stands for open-mindedness, sociability and self-confidence. As a colour in rooms, orange promotes sociability and radiates cosiness.
Yellow
is the colour of the sun. Yellow stands for light, optimism and joy. Yellow makes rooms seem larger and more welcoming. Yellow promotes concentration and creativity and encourages conversation.
Green
is the colour of nature. It soothes, balances and stands for assurance. Green is perceived as generous and inspires trust. In rooms, green creates peace, creativity and a sense of security.
Cyan/turquoise
is a cool, fresh colour. Turquoise conveys spiritual openness and freedom. Turquoise gives rooms a very personal, special touch. It refreshes the senses and portrays clarity.
Blue
stands for peace, trust and longing. It is said to promote language skills and clear thinking. Blue is often used in rooms intended for relaxation.
Purple/violet
stands for dignity and protection. The tones are considered as the colours of inspiration and art and are thought to enhance concentration and self-confidence. Since purple is believed to suppress the appetite, it should only be used to a limited extent in dining areas.
Magenta/pink
are soft colours that bring joy as blossom in nature. They embody idealism, order and compassion. According to experts, pink is a colour that soothes and reduces aggression.
White
is a symbol of purity, clarity and innocence. White is a magical colour that can be used for any other shade since its light spectrum contains almost every colour. In rooms, white is the ideal colour to combine with others. It neutralises, brightens and invigorates.
Brown
is the calm tone of wood and earth. It conveys comfort and security. In rooms, brown has a calming and balancing effect. Earth tones like ochre or sienna and all types of wood can be used in virtually all spaces.
Grey
is the colour of neutrality and demureness. It is unobtrusive and unassuming. Grey offers other colours and shapes a subtle stage to unfold their effect. In rooms, grey should be combined with other colours.
Black
is an elegant, classy colour in fashion. Black is cool. It conveys a sense of seriousness and creates respect. In interior design, black should be used as an eye-catching contrast or to create a deliberate cool, sleek touch.
Have we whet your appetite for fresh colours and first-class technology for canteens?
The B.PRO professionals are on hand with non-binding advice:
Phone +49 7045 44-81900
Fax +49 7045 44-81212
catering@bpro-solutions.com
www.bpro-solutions.com
