The Psychology of Color in Retail and Hospitality Design
When it comes to establishing the interior design of restaurants, there's truly more than what meets the eye. Colors are a powerful thing, and many establishments make use of the psychology behind these hues in order to attract and retain customers.
Many researchers have already dove into how these colors stimulate an emotional response from people. They are linked to the creation of positive thoughts and urging the customer with their decision-making process.
But what are truly the best colors for restaurants? How do designers incorporate colors for retail and hospitality establishments? What is the psychology behind?
Let's find out.
What Colors are Most Commonly Used For Fast Food Restaurants?
If you've been to quite a number of restaurants, you may see some frequent colors popping up. Red, green, orange, yellow, and pink being the most popular.
But these colors are far from being chosen because the owner or designer likes a certain color. Most of the time, there's a reasoning behind which colors are strategically placed for a brand and their brick-and-mortar space.
Let's take a look at some of the most common colors and see how they evoke a sense of interest in the retail and hospitality space:
Red
The usage of red in restaurants goes all the way back to the 1950s when black-and-white checkered tiles and bright red seats ruled. Up until now, red is still popularly used as the main brand color in many restaurant chains. Think McDonalds, KFC, and Wendy's, among many other examples.
What's special about red is that studies have proven the physical effects of this color. This includes increased respiration rate and blood pressure, making the customers' hearts beat faster and, in a way, making them feel hungrier. Red also triggers passion, grabs attention, and stimulates appetite, just like how apples, often associated with this color, can make your mouth water. It's a bold color that encourages impulsivity, prompting customers to make quicker decisions and dive into their meals without hesitation.
There's even a book called A Perfect Red, in which the author describes it as the "color of desire." That sounds about right!
YELLOW
Yellow is a classic color known for evoking warmth and happiness. It's the color of sunshine, energy, and cheer. In restaurants, yellow is used to create a welcoming environment, sparking feelings of comfort and joy. It also has the psychological effect of making people feel hungry, which is why it’s often seen in fast food and casual dining spots. Yellow also encourages quick decisions and makes the environment feel friendly, so customers are more likely to enjoy their meal and stick around.
GREEN
Green is the color of nature, freshness, and health. It’s no surprise that it's often used by restaurants that emphasize natural or organic foods. Whether it's a salad bar, a vegan spot, or a restaurant that promotes sustainability, green signals that the food is fresh, healthy, and good for you. For customers looking to make healthier choices, green makes them feel at ease and assured that they’re choosing something nutritious.
PINK
Pink, often linked to romance, calmness, and sweetness, is a color that works especially well for bakeries, cafes, and dessert shops. It’s soft and inviting, evoking a sense of relaxation and indulgence. Pink isn’t typically used in large quantities in main dining areas but can be seen in accents or displays, especially when it comes to treats like cupcakes, pastries, and candies. It's also used to create a playful, light-hearted vibe that encourages customers to unwind and enjoy something sweet.
7 Best Colors for Restaurants in 2025
When it comes to restaurant design, color plays a big role in creating the right atmosphere. In the coming year, expect a shift toward more personal, warm, and bold tones, with less of the cool neutrals we’ve seen in recent years.
Here are the best colors for restaurants in 2025, based on Sherwin-Williams's Director of Color Marketing Sue Wadden's selection:
1. Rich Black
Deep, dramatic hues like rich black and ebony will dominate restaurant interiors. They pair well with lighter tones, grounding the space and creating an elegant, timeless look. Think dark, glossy walls or accents that elevate the mood of the entire space.
2. Fiery Red
Rich, sultry reds are making a comeback, and they’re perfect for restaurants aiming to create a warm, inviting environment. You can never go wrong with a classic shade of red! The ruby tones will come off as nostalgic and elegant. These colors work well in dining areas where you want to energize the mood while still keeping things classy.
3. Caramel Brown
Forget the drab browns of the past! In 2025, dessert-inspired browns, like caramel, toffee, and mocha, are seen to be taking over. These warm, earthy tones bring comfort and relaxation, making them perfect for restaurant settings where you want guests to feel cozy and at home. They also pair beautifully with natural materials like wood and stone.
4. Deep Sea Blue
A deep, mystical purple-blue is set to be a standout. These rich blue shades feel calming and classy but also bold enough to make a statement. Whether it's used on feature walls or in upholstery, this color can add a sophisticated vibe to your restaurant.
5. Warm Beige
The shift from cool, stark whites to warmer neutrals continues. Shades like soft beige, honey, and caramel will warm up your space, creating a serene and comforting atmosphere. These hues provide a neutral backdrop that can be paired with brighter accent colors or natural materials for a welcoming vibe.
6. Purple Majesty
Rich purples (think deep plum and aubergine) are on the rise in restaurant interiors. Plum works particularly well in intimate dining areas or upscale restaurants that want to add a bit of drama.
7. Candy-Colored Pops
For a playful touch, consider using bright, candy-colored accents in your restaurant. Bold hues like pinks and lilacs are showing up, bringing an element of fun and whimsy to the design. These cheerful shades can work great in casual dining spots or areas where you want to create a lively, lighthearted atmosphere.
Create Memorable Commercial Spaces with Erin Morris
Bringing your brand to life through design starts with a team that truly understands your vision.
At Erin Morris, we specialize in creating brand-driven commercial spaces that go beyond just looking good. We design environments that blend functionality with personality, making your business stand out.
Don't settle for ordinary. Partner with us to create a space that connects with your customers and elevates your brand. Contact us today, and let’s make your vision a reality!