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The Effect of Wall Colour on Indoor Thermal and Visual Comfort in Educational Buildings

Abstract

Wall colour is an architectural and interior design element that can influence the environmental quality and perceptual experience of educational buildings. The colour and reflectance characteristics of interior wall surfaces affect the way light and radiant heat interact with classroom spaces. In educational environments, where students and teachers spend extended periods indoors, appropriate wall colour can contribute to visual comfort, perceived thermal conditions, and the overall quality of learning spaces. Understanding these effects is therefore important for developing comfortable and supportive educational environments. This study examines the effect of wall colour on indoor thermal and visual comfort in educational buildings. It considers different wall colour characteristics, including lightness, reflectance, saturation, and surface finish, and their relationship with indoor environmental conditions. The study evaluates how variations in wall colour affect the distribution and reflection of natural and artificial light within classrooms and other learning spaces. It also considers the relationship between wall colour, room proportions, window openings, and interior surface characteristics. The research further investigates the potential influence of wall colour on indoor thermal conditions. Light-coloured surfaces generally reflect a greater proportion of incident radiation, while darker surfaces may absorb more radiant energy and influence surface temperatures. The interaction between wall colour, solar exposure, wall materials, ventilation, and indoor heat gain is therefore considered. These relationships are particularly relevant in warm climates, where reducing excessive heat accumulation can contribute to improved occupant comfort and reduced dependence on mechanical cooling. Visual comfort is examined through factors such as daylight distribution, luminance, glare, contrast, and visibility of classroom surfaces. Wall colour can influence the perceived brightness of learning spaces and the effectiveness of daylight distribution across interior areas. Excessively bright or highly contrasting surfaces may create visual discomfort, while appropriately selected colours may improve visual balance and support comfortable learning conditions. The study therefore considers both measurable environmental conditions and user perceptions of visual quality. Challenges in selecting appropriate wall colours may arise from differences in building orientation, window size, daylight availability, artificial lighting systems, material finishes, and local climatic conditions. Colour preferences may also vary among users and institutions, meaning that purely aesthetic decisions may not always produce optimal environmental performance. Evaluating wall colour alongside other architectural and environmental factors can therefore provide a more reliable basis for selecting interior finishes in educational buildings. The study aims to establish the relationship between wall colour and indoor thermal and visual comfort in educational buildings. Its findings are expected to assist architects, designers, school administrators, and building professionals in making informed decisions concerning interior colour selection. The study contributes to environmentally responsive educational design by highlighting wall colour as a relatively simple architectural intervention that can influence indoor environmental quality, occupant comfort, daylight performance, and the overall learning experience.

Keywords: Wall colour, educational buildings, thermal comfort, visual comfort, classroom environment, surface reflectance, daylighting, solar heat gain, luminance, glare, indoor environmental quality, interior design, learning spaces, climate-responsive design.