Colour yourself smart with orange

No doubt about it, orange is a power colour. Some theorists maintain that when you’re in the presence of orange, you increase the oxygen supply to the brain which stimulates mental activity. It’s also thought to encourage sociability, by energising people and lessening their inhibitions.

If bold orange walls aren’t your thing, subtle colour is just as successful in creating a stimulating, sociable environment. You could try soft, earthy hues like nectarine, coral, orange rose, sunset and saffron. Work them into a study room and you might just give yourself the mental edge.