RECENT PSYCHOLGICAL RESEARCH CONFIRMS that color can significantly influence everything from mood to productivity. When used correctly in interior design, it can even affect a company's profits.

"I have to keep reminding my clients that color doesn't cost anything," says Sue Renaldi, Supervising Designer of VCE's Key Office Systems Design Team. "Most people think of state offices as gray or green. But it doesn't have to be that way: dull does not necessarily equal cheap. Choosing a pleasing color is no more expensive than choosing a drab color."

Color in the working environment can either be a source of motivation or depression. Renaldi says that when she first interviews a client prior to creating office space, she asks "What colors do you like the least?" She then draws up an office plan, being careful to create an environment that will welcome rather than repulse the people working within those walls. Because happy employees are productive employees, a pleasing color scheme can lead to higher profits.

Virginia Tech is a good example. Renaldi recently installed a system designed by VCE staff designer. The designer placed it against an existing taupe-colored granite wall. By choosing trim and surface colors to coordinate with the granite--then adding strong blue accents on the fabric panels--she was able to work with the architectural elements so successfully that "the client was overjoyed."

In today's marketplace, designers are especially conscious of the cost of office space. Renaldi notes that pale or cool colors can make a room appear larger than it is by creating the illusion that the walls are farther apart. Contrasting colors can draw attention to an object or an area. A charcoal armchair on a charcoal carpet will appear lost, but a white chair on that same charcoal carpet is striking. With clever use of color, designers, such as Renaldi, help companies turn smaller spaces and less furniture to their economic advantage.

Lighting affects color as well. In the past, harsh overhead fluorescent lights were common in most offices. Today, the new high intensity or halogen lamps--properly placed--can create less glare on computer monitors and help create a softer, more comfortable atmosphere. This makes for calmer, less strained, and thus, more productive employees.

For more information about planning your space, call 804-743-4100 or 800-823-2823 or email the Customer Service Department.