Arch. Viola Curti 11.3.2025 @2024 Giovanetti Home SA
He firmly believed that colors were not just an aesthetic element, but had a direct impact on people’s mood and behavior.
1. Color and emotion
Le Corbusier suggested that colors could influence people’s emotions and feelings. In his view, each color was capable of evoking specific moods. For example, warm colors such as red and orange could evoke feelings of energy and vitality, while cool colors such as blue and green were more conducive to relaxation and serenity. This relationship between color and the human psyche was a key component of his approach to space design.
2. Palet of colors
Throughout his career, Le Corbusier developed a color palette called “Polychromie Architecturale,” a selection of colors specifically designed for architecture. This palette included a wide range of colors, each with an effective psychological function. The choice of colors was not random; each shade was designed to interact harmoniously with the environment and to positively influence the experience of those living in or visiting a space.
3. Function and atmosphere
Le Corbusier believed that color could also play a functional role in defining spaces and atmospheres. For example, he used brighter colors in areas intended for social interaction, such as dining rooms or living rooms, while preferring more neutral and calm tones for private or resting spaces, such as bedrooms or studies. This approach not only created a charming aesthetic, but also contributed to an appropriate emotional experience in each room.
4. Cultural perspective
In addition, Le Corbusier also considered the cultural and social context in which colors were used. He was aware that the perception of color could vary significantly from one culture to another, and therefore color design should take into account local sensitivities and cultural experiences.
5. Practical applications.
Le Corbusier’s ideas about colors were put into practice in many of his projects, such as the famous Unité d’Habitation in Marseille, where the strategic use of colors contributed not only to the aesthetic appeal of the building but also to the well-being of its inhabitants.
In sum, the link between colors and mood in Le Corbusier’s vision was rooted in the belief that design could and should influence people’s lives. Through the careful and conscious use of colors, he sought to create environments that promoted positive emotions, comfort and a better quality of life.
