Colour theory

Colour theory encompasses a multitude of definitions,

concepts and design applications. As an introduction, here are a

few basic concepts.

A colour circle, based on red, yellow and blue, is traditional in the field of art. Sir Isaac Newton developed the first

circular diagram of colours in 1666.

Primary colours – red, yellow and blue. In traditional colour theory, these are the 3 pigment colours that can not be

mixed or formed by any combination of other colours. All other

colours are derived from these 3 hues. Secondary colours –

green, orange and purple. These are the colours formed by mixing the primary colours. Tertiary colours – yellow-orange, redorange, red-purple, blue-purple, blue-green and yellow-green.

These are the colours formed by mixing one primary and one

secondary colour.

Colour harmony

There are many theories for harmony. Here are some basic

formulas.

1) A colour scheme based on analogous colours. Analogous

colours are any three colours which are side by side on a 12 part colour wheel, such as yellow-green, yellow, and yelloworange. Usually one of the three colours predominates.

2) A colour scheme based on complementary colours. Complementary colours are any two colours which are directly opposite each other, such as red and green and red-purple and yellow-green.

3) A colour scheme based on nature. Nature provides a perfect

departure point for colour harmony.

When you choose a colour scheme, you’re also choosing a

mood. Research shows that colours can have a powerful effect

on your state of mind: choose the wrong colour for a room and

it could make you feel depressed, sluggish, irritable or anxious

every time you walk into it. To make your home work for you,

it’s a good idea to decide which particular feelings and activities you’d like each room to encourage, and then choose your

colour schemes accordingly.

White provides a blank canvas and allows your feelings

full play. Choose it, if you want to feel open to new ideas and

need space to think. Avoid it, if you’re feeling unsure or insecure.

Like those one-size clothes, cream fits everyone but only

really suits a few. Choose it as a calm backdrop to an intense

lifestyle. Avoid it, if you feel uninteresting or lacking in sparkle.

Red is a stimulating colour if you’re confident and versatile, overpowering if you’re not. Bright reds spell sexiness.

Choose it, if you’re an extrovert in all areas of life. Avoid it, if

you tire easily, often feel pressured or irritable or if you suffer

from claustrophobia.

Orange is impulsive and friendly. It is often chosen by fatalists who take life as it comes. Choose it if you’re outgoing

and want to create a sociable atmosphere. Avoid it if you’re

under stress. Pink blends caring and passion, hence its romantic associations. Choose it in warm shades for the bedroom. Avoid it in

cool pastel tones, if you don’t want to blunt your drive and energy.

Yellow is the colour of sunshine and optimism. Yellow is

the choice of those who want to compensate for a lack of control in the outside world. Choose it, if you’re feeling depressed

or mentally sluggish. Avoid it, if you tend to be impulsive or

slapdash.

Green is extremely restful and can have a deadening effect

in activity areas. Choose it, if you’re introverted or bookish.

Avoid it, if you’re lethargic or withdrawn.

Turquoise combines a soothing effect with a great sense

of renewal and energy. Choose it to promote positive relaxation

and to help fight insomnia. Avoid it: hardly ever. Such a wellbalanced colour can be used anywhere.

Blue appeals to conventional and conformist types.

Choose it to bring relaxation and harmony, to calm a driven

nature. Avoid it, if you feel passive and unambitious about life.

Violet is a spiritual and meditative colour. Paler shades indicate emotional immaturity. Choose it, if you’re extrovert and

to create grand impressions. Avoid it, if you’re an introvert in

any way.

Brown is colour of achievement, but it can be depressing

if the shade is too dark. Choose it, if you’re insecure, but

lighten it with bright colour accents. Avoid it, if you’re easily

depressed.

Black is ultimate achievement colour. For those whose

lives and personalities are completely formed. Choose it, if

you’re assured and successful or well on the way there. Avoid

it, if you’re low on self-confidence or anxious in any way.

Grey expresses achievement if used in darker tones.

Lighter ones suggest a need to impress. Choose it in small

quantities to make a confident statement. Avoid it over large

areas, if you feel uninspired.

1. True or false:

1) There are 5 primary colours.

2) Red and green can be considered complementary colours.

3) If you’re not confident enough you should choose white.

4) Cream suits bright personalities.

5) Orange fits easygoing people.

6) Yellow is perfect to cheer you up.

7) Green is a good choice for sluggish people.

8) Sociable people shouldn’t wear violet.

9) Black can enhance anxiety.