Influence of Color Schemes on Psychological Responses, User Experience, and Cultural Integration in Lagos’s Cultural Centers

This study investigates the influence of color schemes on psychological responses, user experience, and cultural integration in Lagos’s cultural centers, focusing on Terra Kulture and the John Randle Center for Yoruba Culture and History. Employing an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, the research integrates quantitative surveys (n=284) and qualitative case study analyses to examine how color impacts diverse demographic groups. Findings reveal that earthy tones, warm accents, and cool muted tones are preferred, with earthy tones most favored (45.8%) for their connection to nature and cultural heritage. Psychological responses to colors vary significantly by ethnicity (p<0.001), with groups like Yoruba and Igbo favoring deep red and cool blue, while Ijaw and Edo prefer warm yellow and earthy green. Culturally significant colors enhance inclusivity when integrated through accent walls (67.3%), furniture/fabrics (66.2%), and lighting design (56.3%). Terra Kulture was identified as a leading example (48.2%) of balancing cultural identity with modern functionality. The study underscores the need for culturally informed color strategies to foster emotional resonance and inclusivity in Lagos’s multicultural urban context, offering recommendations for architects to create cohesive and meaningful public spaces.