How Lap Architects Use Colour to Shape Commercial Spaces

By Lap Architects

At YesColours, we believe that colour is far more than a visual choice. It is a strategic tool that shapes experiences, reinforces brand identity, and elevates spaces. From commercial interiors to bespoke residential projects, our approach combines applied colour science with creative insight, helping designers and clients make informed decisions that are both impactful and enduring. Colour is where function meets emotion and it plays a pivotal role in every design decision we guide.

What role does colour play in shaping your design decisions?

When thinking of design decisions, colour is a powerful tool that shapes user experience and reinforces brand identity. It’s not just about aesthetics, we use colour strategically to influence behaviour, guide circulation, and create atmosphere.

Our choices are always context-driven,  guided by light, materials, function, and the client's vision. Ultimately, colour helps us create spaces that are not only visually coherent, but also purposeful and memorable.

 

In what ways do colour and finish influence your creative process?

Colour and finish are central to our creative process, they help us translate spatial concepts into tactile and engaging environments.

In commercial projects, these elements are critical for defining atmosphere, supporting brand identity, and enhancing user experience. Early in the design phase, we explore how finishes interact with light, texture, and volume, using them to ground our concepts in sensory reality.

 

Youngs | The Spread Eagle Public House 

 

How do sustainable factors, colour saturation and durability impact your paint decision’s?

Paint choices are always performance-driven. Sustainability, colour saturation, and durability are key considerations, especially in high-traffic environments. Durability is essential and finishes must stand up to daily wear without compromising appearance. We look for products with proven resilience and cleanability to ensure our designs remain vibrant over time.

 

Busy Bees | Odyssey

 

How does colour influence the atmosphere and functionality of a space?

Colour plays a vital role in shaping both the atmosphere and function of commercial spaces. It sets the emotional tone which could becalming, energising, focused and helps define how a space is used.

For example, in a workplace, we might use calming neutrals in focus areas and energising accents in collaborative zones. In retail or hospitality, colour can direct attention, evoke emotion, be used for wayfinding and support the client's branding.

 

Fuller Smith & Turner | The George and Dragon

 

Is contemporary architecture being influenced by any emerging trends?

Contemporary architecture is being hugely influenced by regenerative and sustainable design. Going beyond simple sustainability, modern buildings strive to actively restore and enhance their surroundings by incorporating features like green roofs, rainwater collection systems, low-carbon materials, and adaptive reuse of existing structures to support and nurture local ecosystems instead of merely minimising environmental impact.

 

Private Developer | Woodfield Avenue

 

How can designers and clients make bolder colour choices with confidence?

Bold colour doesn’t mean risky design. With the right strategy, it can elevate a space and enhance the users experience.

We encourage clients to approach bold colour through intentionality and context. Start by grounding choices in brand identity, desired atmosphere, and how people will use the space. Bold doesn’t always mean bright. It can be deep, moody, or unexpected, as long as it supports the space’s purpose.

To build confidence, we use visualisation tools, sample mock-ups, and material boards to show how colour performs in real light and at scale.

 

Decorative interior of a restaurant with a large tree and hanging lights.

Youngs Brewery | Smiths Cocktail Bar

We’re thrilled to showcase LAP Architects as part of our series on colour in contemporary design. Their work highlights how colour is much more than decoration,  it shapes emotion, functionality, and the way people move through a space. At YesColours, we partner with designers to harness colour thoughtfully, combining creativity and applied colour science to create interiors that are both memorable and purposeful.

LAP Architects’ projects show that when colour is considered intentionally, it can define atmosphere, strengthen brand identity, and enhance user experience. At YesColours, we help architects, interior designers, and trade professionals bring these ambitions to life.


Take the next step
If you are an interior designer, architect, or trade professional, sign up for the YesColours Trade Programme  today. Our programme offers exclusive discounts, bespoke colours, and access to our colour services. Learn more about our products, get personalised guidance, and speak directly with one of our business development managers to see how we can support your projects.