Grey Is Not A Color

Why Grey? And Why It’s a Problem

In the design of our cities, grey has become the default color for building facades. It’s perceived as neutral, modern, and versatile. However, from the standpoint of environmental psychology, grey can have unintended consequences for the people who live, work, and play in these spaces.

The Emotional Impact of Grey

Studies have shown that colors influence our emotions and behavior. Grey, in large amounts, tends to evoke feelings of monotony, dullness, and even sadness. It can contribute to a sense of coldness or sterility in our urban environments. When we surround ourselves with grey, we disconnect from the vibrant and diverse colors of nature. This disconnect can affect our well-being, leading to a lack of visual stimulation and a diminished sense of place.

Nature-Inspired Alternatives

Instead of defaulting to grey, we propose using color combinations inspired by nature.

Humans have a deep, instinctive connection to the natural world. Our brains are wired to respond positively to the colors found in nature—such as the greens of forests, the blues of water, and the warm tones of earth. These colors can evoke feelings of calm, happiness, and comfort. Incorporating nature-inspired colors into our buildings helps create environments that feel more welcoming, dynamic, and harmonious.

• Almond Milk & Chestnut → Warm and inviting
• Terracotta & Espresso → Earthy and grounded
• Buttercream & Fresh Linen → Bright and cheerful
• Ocean Mist & Sand Dune → Calm and soothing
• Olive Grove & Deep Forest → Rich and natural
• Merlot & Snowcap → Bold and striking

This article serves as a brief introduction, to set the stage for a deeper exploration of how reintroducing nature-inspired colors into the built environment can bring our cities to life.