Sustainable Flooring and the Psychology of Colour in Design

Dr Axel Buether, one of the world’s leading colour experts and pioneer of modern evidence-based colour psychology, has worked in collaboration with Bona to develop a new colour collection.

The Perfect Blend of Sustainability and Design

At Bona, we understand that modern architects are constantly seeking materials that combine functionality with sustainability. With flooring being the foundation of any interior space, we’re spotlighting Bona’s Resilient Solution Colour Collection, a cutting-edge range designed to seamlessly integrate style, durability, and environmental consciousness.

Bona’s collection offers 15 stunning standard colours inspired by nature and allows for customisation to suit any project requirements within settings such as:

• Care Sector Settings

• Educational Buildings

• Office Spaces

• Medical Practices

The Power of Colour Psychology in Design

Dr. Axel Buether, a prominent researcher in evidence-based colour psychology, has revealed how flooring and colour influence wellbeing, productivity, and emotional connections within physical spaces. Flooring is no longer just a functional element but a critical component that shapes how people perceive and interact with their surroundings.

For example:

• Educational Spaces: Natural tones like sage green and dove blue encourage calm and focus, enhancing both learning and teaching experiences.

• Office Environments: Warm, earthy accents such as ochre and clay promote creativity and collaboration in workplace settings.

• Medical Spaces: Soft hues from grey-blue or green palettes create trust, offering patients comfort without sterility.

This remarkable integration of biophilic design mimics nature’s calming effects, fostering connection, reduced stress, and improved engagement in interior environments.

The Connection Between Colour and Wellbeing in Education

By incorporating natural elements into interior spaces, starting with the floor, profound improvements in wellbeing can be achieved. Evidence shows that natural colour palettes improve physical health, boost trust and confidence, enhance concentration and creativity among students, and improve focus among staff.

Recent research, ‘Colour as a Design Tool: The Effects of Light and Surface Colours on Human Experience and Behaviour in Built Spaces,’ reports that a positive atmosphere can improve the wellbeing of building occupants by up to 100 per cent. This translates directly to education, where optimal colour design can enhance academic performance and emotional resilience.

Furthermore, the research highlights the financial benefits of improved design: schools that integrate effective colour concepts report reduced absenteeism, fewer instances of teacher burnout, and a stronger sense of community among students, staff, and parents. These findings underscore the importance of intentional colour design in addressing challenges such as teacher recruitment and retention.

Designing for Engagement and Identity

Educational spaces should evoke a sense of identity and belonging. Colour is a key tool in achieving this, from the entrance foyer to the hallways, classrooms, and shared spaces. A cohesive colour scheme helps students, parents, and educators connect emotionally with the school environment, fostering pride and engagement.

In addition, colour can support inclusivity and accessibility. Thoughtful use of high-contrast colours, for example, ensures that spaces are navigable for students with visual impairments. Combining these design strategies creates environments that are not only beautiful but also equitable and functional.

Why Bona’s Flooring Stands Out

Bona’s Resilient Colour Collection is designed for versatile use across materials like PVC, vinyl, and linoleum. Here’s how it benefits your next project:

• Sustainability: A choice aligned with your eco-conscious goals, reducing waste and extending the lifecycle of flooring through renewal solutions.

• Practical Design: Colours inspired by natural elements help soften sterile or overly industrialised spaces, creating welcoming environments.

• Durability: With high resistance to wear and tear, this flooring is ideal for areas with heavy foot traffic, from bustling school corridors to busy healthcare facilities.

Setting the Scene

Visualise your project’s potential with Bona’s Floor Visualiser Tool. Upload a photo of your space and explore over 15 different colour and chip combinations designed to provide clarity in your design decision-making process.

Try it now.

Key Contacts & Resources

Our solutions empower architects and designers to achieve exceptional results while keeping sustainability at the forefront. Want to discuss how this flooring can complement your next project?

Get in touch with our experts today!

🔗 Learn more about Bona Resilient Colour Collections: 

🔗 Discover Sustainability in Flooring: 

Thank you for your continued efforts to combine creativity, sustainability, and functionality in shaping the spaces of tomorrow.