“Color is a power which directly influences the soul,” said Wassily Kandinsky, the Russian painter and art theorist often considered as a founding father of abstract art. “[It] hides a power still unknown but real, which acts on every part of the human body.”

Colors shape so many aspects of our lives and most of us have been captivated by them since childhood, from mixing paints to witnessing rainbows. There’s evidence that color plays a powerful role in our lives, affecting our moods, feelings, how we work, and how we act.

For example, reds, oranges, and yellows are commonly associated with warmth and happiness, while browns, grays, and blacks can evoke sadness. This connection to color extends to design and architecture.

Just like texture, light, and shadow, the spaces around us are defined by color tones and variations, shaping our visual experience and emotions. In essence, color transforms how we perceive, feel, and ultimately experience the architecture that surrounds us.

Colors and Sustainability: A Growing Consideration

In today’s world of growing environmental concerns, sustainability in architecture is no longer just a “trend”, but one of the most important factors to take into consideration while designing a building. A greener approach in architecture focuses on minimizing a building’s environmental impact throughout its lifecycle, from construction to operation.

Hence, an increasing number of architects and construction executives started to consider the role of color in their designs, which extends far beyond aesthetics in sustainable architecture, playing a significant role in energy efficiency, material selection, and occupant comfort.

1. Color as a Key to Energy Savings

One of the most impactful ways color influences sustainability is through its effect on energy consumption. Lighter, reflective colors on building exteriors can significantly reduce heat absorption. This translates to lower cooling costs in hot climates, as buildings don’t require as much energy to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Conversely, in cooler climates, strategically placed darker colors can absorb heat from the sun, contributing to passive heating and reducing reliance on energy-intensive heating systems.

The impact of color extends beyond buildings themselves. Lighter-colored pavements in urban areas can reflect sunlight and heat, mitigating the urban heat island effect. This phenomenon occurs when cities absorb and retain heat due to an abundance of dark surfaces, leading to higher ambient temperatures and increased energy use for cooling.

2. Color Guiding Material Choices to Reduce Waste

Color choices can also influence the selection of building materials, impacting a building’s overall environmental footprint. Lighter colors often promote the use of local, naturally colored materials like stone or wood. This reduces transportation emissions associated with bringing in materials from faraway locations. 

Additionally, designs featuring certain colors may encourage the use of recycled or low-maintenance materials. For example, dark metal cladding can be highly durable and require minimal repainting, reducing waste and environmental footprint.

3. Color for Biodiversity and Harmony with Wildlife

Buildings can have a significant impact on wildlife. Bright colors can disrupt animal behavior and habitat use. To address this, architects are exploring the use of “camouflage colors” that blend with the surrounding landscape. This approach offers several benefits for biodiversity.

To begin with, by appearing less visually intrusive, camouflaged buildings create a less stressful environment for wildlife. Animals can move more freely and utilize their habitat without feeling disturbed by the presence of a brightly colored structure.

Furthermore, camouflage colors that mimic natural materials like rocks or vegetation can help minimize disruption to existing ecosystems. This is particularly important for species that are sensitive to human encroachment.

A Brushstroke for a Sustainable Future

While Wassily Kandinsky and many of history’s greatest artists spoke of color’s influence on the soul, its impact extends far beyond aesthetics. Color shapes our world, from influencing our moods to dictating how we experience the built environment.

In sustainable architecture, color is no longer an afterthought, but a powerful tool. From reducing energy consumption to promoting biodiversity through camouflage techniques, color is a key player in creating a more harmonious and environmentally responsible future.