January can feel a bit grey. The festive break is over, the days are short, and the campus can seem drained of energy. While we can’t change the weather, we can influence the environment our staff work in. The colours that surround us have a real impact on our mood and productivity. For schools and colleges, a few thoughtful changes can make a big difference in lifting spirits during the darkest month of the year.
This isn’t about huge, expensive redecorations. It's about using colour psychology in smart, simple ways to brighten spaces, boost moods, and help your campus feel more energising for the people who make it run.
Why colour matters for your staff
Think about how different colours make you feel. It’s a concept that’s been studied for years. Certain hues can energise us, while others can have a calming effect. In a busy school environment, getting this balance right can directly affect staff wellbeing and, by extension, their effectiveness. When staff feel good in their workspace, they are often more focused and positive.
During a month like January, when natural light is scarce and motivation can dip, the colours inside your buildings become even more important. A strategic use of colour can help counter the gloom and create a more positive atmosphere for everyone.
Practical ways to use colour on campus
You don't need a massive budget to make an impact. Small, targeted changes can transform key areas and give your staff a much-needed lift.
Staff rooms and communal areas
These spaces are crucial for downtime and collaboration. The goal here is to create an environment that feels both relaxing and refreshing.
Go for green: Green is often associated with balance, nature, and rest. It’s easy on the eyes and can help reduce feelings of stress. Try adding green accents with potted plants, colourful mugs, or even temporary tablecloths in shades of green. You could also put up nature-themed posters or wall prints.
Introduce blue: Soft blues are known for their calming properties. They can help lower blood pressure and create a sense of peace. Add blue with removable artwork, blue scatter cushions, or something as simple as blue desk accessories. Even a stack of blue books or a blue lamp can help set the tone.
Corridors and high-traffic zones
These are the arteries of your campus. While they are transitional spaces, they set the tone for the entire building. Bland, neutral corridors can feel monotonous.
Warm it up with yellow and orange: Yellow is the colour of optimism and energy. Splashes of it can instantly make a space feel brighter and more cheerful. Orange is similarly warm and welcoming. You don't need to paint entire walls. Stick up colourful posters, use removable wall decals, or string up cheerful bunting. Swap in bright storage boxes or hang yellow and orange artwork. If you can, change the colour of information boards or add strips of colourful tape along the edges.
Classrooms and offices
While student learning is the priority in classrooms, the environment also affects the teachers who spend most of their day there.
Avoid overstimulation: Bright red can increase heart rate and create a sense of urgency. While a little can be good for highlighting important information, too much can be overwhelming and contribute to a feeling of stress. Use it sparingly through red folders, accent posters, or a single red cushion on a chair.
Easy colour pops: If repainting isn't possible, brighten workspaces with temporary fabric covers for chairs, colourful stationery holders, or even vibrant sticky notes along notice boards. Inexpensive photo frames or motivational quote cards in uplifting colours are an easy way to add pops of colour without making permanent changes.
Small changes, big impact
Making your campus a more colourful place doesn't have to be a major project. Start small.
Bring in plenty of low-maintenance plants.
Encourage departments to create colourful displays outside their classrooms.
By thoughtfully applying colour psychology, you can actively combat the January slump. It’s a simple, effective way to show your staff you care about their wellbeing and to create a more positive and energising campus for the term ahead.