This study is devoted to perception of color and shape by children of different ages. The article considers specificity of influence of these means of architectural expression on various spheres of activity of the child (educational, game and sports, rest, etc.). Since color has a huge impact on our sensory perception of the world, thinking and actions, the relevance of this topic is undeniable. Color can influence the mood and performance of students, which plays a crucial role in the educational process. The paper studies and summarizes the results of research in the field of psychology, pedagogy, medicine, as well as physiology, devoted to the study of the characteristics of the perception of color and shape by children of different ages. Age groups with characteristic psychophysiological features have been identified. On the example of foreign design experience, successful design options for educational and public spaces of educational organizations are considered, recommendations are given for the design and design of premises for various functional purposes, taking into account the age characteristics of students. Colors that have a positive effect on the psycho-emotional state of children, and color combinations that should be avoided have been identified. The percentage ratio of primary and secondary colors in the design of the interiors of educational organizations is determined. In addition, an experimental project of a general education organization with a combined block of primary classes is developed, taking into account the above recommendations.