Color Ideas for Rebuilding an Animal Shelter

Go Natural

• Consider an interior and exterior color palette that enhances or complements the physical location of the shelter. Use colors that are locally appealing but not overused by every building on the block. Soothing earth-toned colors inside and out can enhance the shelter's appeal to those who visit.

  When choosing a natural color palette, apply splashes of complimenting color on accessories or focal points. Accent colors can be used to draw attention to shelter areas that house public information, reception desks or entrances to public viewing areas.

  If colors are used in animal housing areas, choose light or bright natural wall and floor colors that make the pet easily visible considering the sources of lighting. Avoid colors that will easily show dirt and typical wear and tear. Natural color schemes should remain fresh and appealing .

Stand Out

• Attention getting color schemes can make both city and rural shelters stand out and get noticed. Eye catching color schemes can enhance the attraction of a shelter when used in climates that tend to be dreary.

  When choosing a bold or bright color scheme, make certain to use colors with equal levels of intensity. Bright colors can enhance the moods of employees and visitors, but if used incorrectly can be overwhelming and can actually encourage feelings of stress.

  When using bright colors on an interior, use them to define specific shelter spaces. Rooms where potential adopters can visit shelter pets or the housing areas of any animals that might be viewed from common areas are good choices for bright or bold color use.

  Standout colors can be successful when chosen for rooms that house small, monotoned companion animals, but may be too much for spaces that house colorful pet birds.

  Choose lighter brights for kennel areas to showcase the animals available for adoption.

Color Trends

• Due to the budget restraints of many animal shelters, it is best for smaller shelters to avoid color palettes that will date the facility and make it look old or drab before its time. Trendy color schemes are more appropriate if your shelter budget allows the occasional update.

  Current color trends should be considered for large city shelters or shelters located in affluent or trendy urban areas. Keeping the shelter current on color trends may attract more visitors to shelters located within areas that reflect those demographics.