Solutions & Tips • 12 Jun 2018
Color can be instinctive; yet grasping the fundamental rules of color theory is an essential tool for taking much of the guesswork out of any selection. There is science behind many of the emotive choices we make, as we instinctively search for balance. Color theory follows clear rules based on the color wheel, a circle of three primary, three secondary and six tertiary colors. From this visual tool, it is possible to select the color combinations most harmonious to the human eye.
Monochromatic
Highly sophisticated and subtle, monochromic schemes follow colors through a series of gradients, moving from pale to dark, but always grouped within one specific color hue. For example, grey may move from the palest shade of dove through to a dark charcoal.
Complementary
Essentially complementary colors are placed diametrically opposite each other on the color wheel, so green is opposite to red and so on. It is best not to present equal proportions of complementary colors, as a dominant shade will deliver more impact.
Split Complementary
A favorite with interior designers everywhere, this clever technique uses the principles of complementary colorsbut instead creates a trio using the colors from both sides of the direct opposite. For example,red would be paired with mid-blue and yellow-green.
Analogous
These color groupings work by choosing colors next to one other on the color wheel. This is a useful technique for highly commercial projects as these colors work well together and often evoke a calm and restful effect with wide appeal.
Triadic
A Triadic scheme is a variant of split complimentary where three colors are taken from equal spacing within the color wheel for a harmonious and vibrant effect. With no single dominant color, balance the scheme with varying tints and shades of the chosen hues.
Tetradic
Using two sets of complementary colors in a four-color harmony results in a Tetradic combination. There are rich decorating possibilities in this more complex theory, for the most successful outcome select one dominant color and three supporting tones.
