'Why has everything gone grey?'

In recent months, we have seen an increased use of grey in interiors. There could be a number of reasons for that. It could be seen as trendy/fashionable or aspirational.This gives a sense of belonging, inclusion, acceptance. Or perhaps during these uncertain times we are currently in, people may be looking for security.

Grey is the only colour that doesn't have any positive psychological properties. Grey is the colour to wear when you don't want to be seen, 'cloaking the personality'. It can convey seriousness and the message 'I mean business'.

It evokes a lack of confidence, fear of exposure, hiding. In the home surrounding yourself with grey is like cocooning yourself from the outside world, going into hibernation. Over time this can be energy draining and straining. There are many other colours that support the emotions without draining them.

The colours that we choose to decorate our homes with are often said to be a reflection of our collective psyche. Has the use of grey in interiors has become popular as a response to the difficult economic situation we are experiencing at the moment?

By using grey in our homes we are protecting ourselves, we may be fearful of the unknown and what is going to happen. We may be subconsciously withdrawing and using grey as a means of protection to feel safe and secure.

If we are anxious or nervous we may also turn to grey to feel calm, which is quite an extreme way to do it as it can be so draining without any support. There are better colours that support the emotions without draining or straining a person's energy.

It's best to use the shade of grey that resonates with you. There are warm greys (yellow based) and cool greys (blue based). Grey is best avoided in the bedroom, nurseries and any rooms for infants and children. It should also be avoided in any rooms that require creativity.

As grey doesn't have a 'personality' of its own, paired with any other colour, it allows that colour to be visible whilst grey takes a back seat. The key is to choose a grey that is from the same harmonious colour family as the rest of the colours you are using. That way it will harmoniously resonate and not jar or drain the other colours.

If you had a colour that was overpowering, you could tone it down (drain it) by using grey, or better still change the overpowering colour. Happy decorating.