The Power and Psychology of Color in Design
Color is more than just a visual choice; it’s one of the most effective tools a designer can customize. Beyond Design has seen firsthand the power and psychology of color in design. On multiple occasions, we’ve seen products fail not because of their features, but because companies underestimated the gravity color has on purchasing decisions. Color is a major factor in whether new products thrive or fall flat. Color taps into user perception and emotions to influence how people form connections. Incorporating modern color trends into designs and branding will strengthen the connection between consumers and products.
Color is a powerful design tool that shapes how users perceive products and brands.
Color Trends in Product Design
Design trends constantly evolve and one of the most frequently changing leaders is color trends. The development of popular colors reflects cultural shift changes in society’s overall mood. Plus, advances in material science and technological innovation influence new possibilities for how shades and hues interact with texture and form. Designers use color to relate product designs and Visual Brand Languages (VBLs) to consumer lifestyles.
Here are noteworthy color trends that led the way in 2024 and will stay prominent in 2025:
Playful Tech Colors
Bold products with bright splashes of color command attention. Eclectic tones subconsciously connect with end users to stimulate emotions. One product that demonstrates playful color in tech is the Remington Wet Tech AQ7 Razor, developed by Beyond Design. This product used shades of ocean blue to signify strength and dependability, ultimately creating a trustworthy first impression. Tech products and accessories can enhance their appeal by clearly defining the emotions they wish to convey and aligning their designs with these insights.
Bold and bright colors catch users’ eyes and spark optimistic emotions.
Sustainable Color Palettes
The consumer-driven push towards sustainable and eco-friendly products has made natural and earthy tones increasingly relevant. Colors like sage green and mocha brown signal a return to nature, wellness, and sustainability. Our Why Design Matters blog, A Designers Guide to ESG Criteria, emphasizes how environmental and social well-being are top-of-mind when consumers decide what products to purchase. For the same reasons, patrons monitor ESG criteria, product designs embrace sustainable color palettes to bring attention to eco-conscious initiatives.
Sustainable designs and earthy tones shine a light on eco-friendly companies.
Minimalist Color Tones
Minimalistic color trends favor simplicity and restraint. Simple colors like monochrome, neutral warm, and cool gray keep designs neat and timeless. Subtle hues let users focus on functionality and elegance, instilling a sense of tranquility. A great example of a minimalist product with a matching color tone is the Bradley Verge Washbar, which comes in minimalistic metallic finishes. Minimalistic color tones and material finishes take pride in clean lines and sophisticated details that flawlessly fit and heighten modern design aesthetics.
Minimalist colors and tones have a calm, elegant, and timeless look.
The Psychological of Color and Branding
Colors affect the perception of products on conscious and subconscious levels. Every color in the rainbow has associated emotions, and designers harness these emotions to impact end users. As we established, blue is linked to dependability, so shades of it are common in healthcare and financial products. Meanwhile, red is an equally powerful color that grabs attention and emits urgency, typically seen on UI button prompts and For Sale/Rent signs.
You probably chose your favorite color based on how it makes you feel and what it represents. Likewise, your favorite brands and products were created with intentional choices based on the company’s ideology. Experienced design consultants, like Beyond Design, understand how to incorporate color into product designs to encourage specific feelings and actions that build more loyal customer relationships.
The biggest and most recognizable brands know that color matters in product design.
Pantone Color of the Year
December guarantees two occasions: Christmas and the Pantone Color of the Year. The Pantone Color of the Year award defines color trends across all design industries, including fashion, interior, and product. The selection process is based on research into current events, cultural movements, and artistic trends to identify THE COLOR that reflects the prevailing global mood.
For instance, the Pantone Color of the Year 2023, Viva Magenta, reflects the dynamic and bold optimism the world needed to recover from a pandemic. The shade of red represents resilience, vibrancy, and energy during a time of global revitalization.
In December 2023, Peach Fuzz was named the Color of the Year 2024 for its warmth and sense of togetherness. During uncertain times, soft peach hues foster empathy, community, and a longing for more meaningful moments.
Pantone announces the Color of the Year every December. What will be the Color of the Year 2025?
Concluding Thoughts on Color
Color is essential for developing exceptional products that resonate with users. The power of color and psychology in design influences emotions and perceptions, drives trends, and conveys deeper messages. Beyond Design understands the critical role that color plays in product development and works closely with our clients to ensure their products maximize the emotional impact of color. Whether inspired by trends, psychology, or award recognitions, colors must be strategically designed to create meaningful products and consumer experiences.
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