What Colors Should You Use in Your Office?

We tend to underestimate color. We think of it as decoration—something nice to look at, maybe a way to freshen up a wall. But anyone who’s ever walked into a room and instantly felt calm, energized, or focused knows: color works hard.

In today’s work environments, leaders—whether architects, designers, or executives—are recognizing that every detail shapes performance, mood, and even brand perception. At Gebesa, we’ve seen this firsthand: the right color choices, paired with the right furniture, can transform not just how a space looks but how it feels and functions.

This isn’t just theory. It’s something you notice the moment you step into a space. Color can sharpen your focus, spark your imagination, or simply make you want to stay and do your best work. So, we pulled together some insights on how different industries are using color to elevate their spaces—and how you can, too.

1. Marketing, Advertising, and Creative Teams: Energize Every Corner

For creative teams like marketing or advertising, “boring” isn’t in the vocabulary. These are high-energy environments where bold ideas matter, so the palette needs to reflect that. 

• Orange: Sparks creativity, energy, and optimism.
• Mustard or soft yellow: Boosts mental energy and focus.
• Blue or aqua accents: Balance overstimulation and bring harmony.

But here’s the trick: balance. Too much color and the space can feel overwhelming. That’s why many agencies ground their designs with neutrals—white, light gray—and layer in bright accents with furniture or accessories. We’ve seen great success with lounge zones that invite playfulness without sacrificing function.

2025 trends to complement: 

• Biophilic design: Interestingly, biophilic design is gaining traction here—bringing in natural elements to reduce stress and boost creativity. Studies show employees in biophilic spaces are 15% more creative and 6% more productive.*
• Smart tech: Pair that with smart tech that automates routine tasks, and you’re giving people room to think big.
• Also try with Flexible workstations: Adaptable spaces for both solo and team work.

You may be interested in: Office decoration trends 2025: flexible and functional space

In legal or corporate offices, the tone shifts.

Here, it’s about trust, sophistication, and a touch of restraint. The best spaces in this category strike a balance between tradition and evolution—formal, but not frozen in time.

Recommended colors:

• Charcoal or anthracite gray: Sophisticated but not aggressive.
• Navy blue or bottle green: Inspire trust and stability.
• Warm beige or off-white: Add brightness without losing formality.
• Mocha Mousse (Pantone 2025): Adds warmth and sophistication.
  
  

Design tip:

Pair dark executive desks with upholstered ergonomic chairs in muted tones. Light wood storage solutions can soften the atmosphere without compromising professionalism.

Healthcare spaces are another world entirely.

In clinics, hospitals, or labs, color does quiet, powerful work. Antibacterial finishes, calming textures—these small details have a big impact, reassuring patients and supporting staff well-being.

Recommended colors:

• Soft green or sage: Communicates calm, balance, and nature.
• Sky blue or light gray: Helps reduce anxiety.
• Crisp white or ivory: Reinforces cleanliness.
  
  

2025 trends to complement:

• Clinical biophilia: The trend toward “clinical biophilia” is fascinating—introducing natural elements to ease stress. 
• Flexible zones: This refers to flexible layouts that adapt to changing needs in order to make spaces smarter and more humane.

Beauty Salons, Spas, and Wellness: Style, Warmth, and Sensory Appeal

When you walk into a beauty salon or spa, you feel it before you think it. The colors are part of the experience, they create a quiet kind of luxury, a space where people can unwind. Here, less really is more. 

Recommended colors:

• Blush pink or soft pastels: Add a feminine, stylish touch without overwhelming.
• Soft gold or champagne: Evoke luxury and distinction.
• Pearl gray or satin white: Highlight details without overpowering.
  

Design tip: Incorporate lounge furniture with soft textiles and metallic details, a reception desk in pearly tones… it’s about setting the right mood without shouting.

Tech and Engineering Firms: Focus, Order, and Functionality

Tech and engineering offices, on the other hand, are all about focus and adaptability. It’s about how spaces flex to support different work styles. 

Recommended colors:

• Steel gray or graphite: Ideal for deep focus.
• Electric blue or turquoise accents: Stimulate mental engagement.
• Dark green: Supports logical thinking.

Design tip:

Use adjustable desks and ergonomic chairs in neutral tones, with color pops in accessories or lighting. Gebesa’s modular solutions meet the demands of today’s dynamic tech spaces.

About trends: Tech companies push toward self-managed offices, on-demand workstations, and visible sustainability features, the design conversation gets even more exciting.

So, how do you choose the right palette?

Forget the idea of “best color.” The magic happens in the mix—how color interacts with light, materials, and movement. What works in the morning might feel different in the afternoon. The same shade can energize or soothe depending on how it’s used.

Ask yourself:

• What kind of energy does this team need?
  
  
• How will the light shift over the day?
  
  
• Where should I use bold accents, and where do I need calm?
  
  

It’s about creating intentional contrasts and making sure the space supports, rather than competes with, the work being done.

And yes, the science backs it up.

Studies show that color can boost productivity by as much as 15% and lower stress by 25%. But the secret isn’t slapping yellow paint on every wall—it’s thoughtful design. Knowing your people, your work, your culture—and designing for that.

At Gebesa, we believe details matter. Our approach to customizable furniture lets you weave together color, texture, and function in ways that truly reflect who you are as a company.

In the end, an office isn’t just a space to work. It’s a statement of who you are, how you work, and what you value.
 

When color, light, layout, and furniture come together, you create more than a beautiful room—you build an environment where people want to show up, contribute, and thrive.

We’d love to help you get there. Let’s explore what’s possible.