Ever walked into a space and immediately felt something—maybe energized, relaxed, or nostalgic—without really knowing why? Chances are, color had a lot to do with it. At Pulling Paint, we've seen firsthand how color choices in murals and signage can make a business environment thrive.

The Hidden Power of Color

Color affects our brains in ways we don't even realize. It can:

• Grab attention when and where you want it
• Trigger specific emotions
• Build trust (or break it)
• Connect with memories and cultural associations
• Push people toward certain choices

This explains why color psychology isn't just some fluffy concept—it's a serious business tool. SCORE's research found that 93% of consumers put visual appearance and color above everything else when shopping, and 85% say color is the main reason they buy specific products. (Source: straitsresearch.com)  

It's Not Just "Blue Means Trust"

Most of us have heard those simplified color meanings: red is exciting, blue is trustworthy, green means growth. There's some truth there, but it gets way more in-depth in real-world applications.

Green might represent growth for a tech startup, but for a luxury brand, it could feel too casual. Red might energize a sports bar mural but could send the wrong message in a children's hospital. Context changes everything. (Source: 99 Designs)

This complexity is exactly why we spend so much time understanding a client's brand, audience, and goals before we ever pick up a paintbrush.

The Game-Changer: Shade and Saturation

The magic happens in the details. Color's true power lies not just in its hue, but in its precise shade and saturation—these subtle variations transform how your space connects with customers. Vibrant, saturated colors command immediate attention and trigger powerful emotional responses—ideal for spaces where you want instant impact. Meanwhile, softer pastels and muted tones create an atmosphere of calm reflection, perfect for encouraging longer, more thoughtful engagement.

Imagine the difference: a bold teal wall energizes a fast-casual restaurant, creating the perfect dynamic environment for high energy and quick table turnover. That same color, when softened and subdued, transforms into an inviting backdrop for a jewelry store, where customers feel at ease lingering longer and considering their special purchase with care. The right shade doesn't just decorate your space—it strategically shapes the entire customer experience.

Color Psychology in Action: Our Recent Projects

The LGBTQ+ Community Center in Whittier

One of our most vibrant projects demonstrates these principles perfectly. For the LGBTQ+ Community Center in Whittier, CA, we executed a dramatic exterior transformation using diagonal colored stripes that flow across the building's surface. This project showcases the exceptional design work of DLR Group, the architecture firm based in Los Angeles, California, which created the original concept.

The dynamic design uses movement and energy through color placement—not just as decoration but as communication. The diagonal patterns create a sense of forward motion and progress, perfectly aligned with the center's mission. We deliberately avoided simply plastering rainbow colors in static blocks, instead bringing to life DLR Group's modern design that feels inclusive, energetic, and welcoming.

"Bananas" Children's Art Center in Mar Vista

For a children's educational arts center called "Bananas," we took a completely different color approach. Working closely with the owners, we developed a design featuring a soft yellow background with playful banana imagery, creating an instantly recognizable and approachable space that appeals to kids while still looking professional.

The tagline "play • create • celebrate" is reinforced by the cheerful yellow tone, which psychologically promotes optimism, creativity, and friendly energy—exactly what you want in a children's learning environment. Through our collaborative design process with the owners, we selected a gentle shade that avoids being overstimulating (which brighter yellows can sometimes be for children) while still creating a sunny, positive atmosphere.

Rodeo Athletic Club in Silverlake

For Rodeo Athletic Club, we created sophisticated signage and wayfinding elements using a completely different color strategy. The cool blue interior elements, paired with a striking horse silhouette, create a distinctive atmosphere that communicates both energy and professionalism.

The bold black lettering against neutral backgrounds for exterior signage creates high visibility from the street—solving a practical business problem through color contrast. Inside, the continued color theme helps members navigate the space intuitively, reducing confusion and enhancing the customer experience.

Murals That Drive Business Results

Well-designed murals do more than decorate—they actively help businesses succeed:

• Restaurants with warm-colored murals see increased appetite and faster table turnover
• Retail spaces use strategic color placement to guide customers toward featured products
• Workplaces with the right color balance see improved productivity and happier employees

Source: https://www.keyinteriors.us/

The Bottom Line: Color as Strategy

As mural artists, we're essentially visual psychologists, using colors to communicate feelings and ideas that words can't easily express. At Pulling Paint, we're not just creating art—we're designing experiences that support specific business goals.

When you're planning your next space redesign or branding update, remember that color choices aren't just about what looks good—they're strategic decisions that directly impact how customers behave, how employees perform, and ultimately, your bottom line.

Ready to see how strategic color choices could transform your business space? Drop us a line to talk about your custom mural or signage project.