Case Study - Smith Bros. Design

Blues were used as studies have shown the colour to be calming, relaxing and even have the impact of lowering the blood pressure - and light shades were chosen to make meeting rooms and offices seem larger and brighter. Hues of orange were a theme for the canteen and breakout areas as the bright colour has been shown to evoke excitement, enthusiasm and to energise. Red was avoided because it is shown to raise the blood pressure. ColourFutures™ has been dedicated to the expert analysis of social, economic and design trends for 17 years. Every year, AkzoNobel creates colour palettes that help professionals to transform interiors into spaces that impact occupants’ needs. The Global Aesthetic Centre in Amsterdam has been leading AkzoNobel’s colour trend analysis, colour research and design, and art direction for 27 years.

Rob Pace, Emerging Sector Manager, Dulux Trade said: “This was an exciting project for Dulux Trade, the team have worked hard in ensuring that Smith Bros. Design’s brief was fulfilled, to create a space that had a tangible impact on the occupants. “We have spent years funding and developing research in occupant centred colour and design, and being involved from the outset has meant the team have seen the development of this project through to the final result, demonstrating why colour should be considered a vital part of the design process. “Designing a space that is tailored to the workforce is really the best brief a design firm can get - seeing a company put time and effort into making their workspace an enjoyable place to be, as well as stimulating and productive is the ideal.”