Style expert Sarah Ambrose talks about psychology of color - DC Breaking Local News Weather Sports FOX 5 WTTG

A lot of people are afraid of color, but Art Van style expert Sarah Ambrose says it's all about color.

Color can be used to decorate homes, inspire emotions, or set the mood. Cooler colors like blues and green are a lot more calming. According to Ambrose, cooler colors are usually found in hospitals because they make people relax and feel more at home. Warmer colors like reds, pinks, yellows and oranges have a tendency to cause people passion and excitement. Restaurants use a lot of red because it stimulates the appetite and makes people want to eat more.

When it comes to decorating the home, many people become nervous when using color in furniture. Ambrose says there is nothing wrong with using a blue couch and a yellow couch together. For those who use throw pillows, it's not all about the throw pillows for adding colors. Choosing furniture and wall colors brings more to a room than throw pillows and other minute decorations.

"If you wear a color a lot, that might be a good color to use on your walls," said Sarah Ambrose, Visual Merchandiser. In terms of wall colors, a darker color will make the room feel smaller and create a more cozy feel. To make a larger room feel more cozy, choose a darker wall color, such as espresso brown.

The color of the year is emerald, a bright, strong green. Those looking to brighten up a room and switch things around without painting walls, try a comfy emerald green chair or couch.

Sarah's tips: "Look in your closet for color inspiration if you're a little nervous about using colors, those will be colors you feel safe with already."

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