Colour theory - Part 3

Colour Theory - Part 3

Once you've learnt the basic principles of colour theory, you can put it into practice to create successful room schemes and pleasing colour combinations.

Trying Combinations

Colours that sit opposite each other on the colour wheel are complementary, meaning they are aesthetically pleasing when paired together. When the paint colours themselves are mixed together, they will create a neutral brown or black colour.

Main colour:

• Paloma
• Neutral containing purple and yellow

Paired with:

• Old Violet
• Louis Blue
• Old Ochre
• Original

These colours work nicely together because they all contain the same tones of purple and yellow.

Adding oomph:

• Olive Green
• Firle

Accents of brighter colours can be introduced, and you'll find colours that also contain similar undertones will work best - so in this case, yellow-toned greens.

Things to Remember...

• Don't be afraid to experiment! In fact, experimenting is what it's all about. Try different things, and if they don't work, go back to where you were and try something else.
• Remember, if a colour turns out too bright, you can use a wax on top to mute it a little.
• You always need white in a room; it adds freshness and allows everything else to pop.
• A wall colour should connect to other elements within the room for a cohesive feel. It could be a rug that echoes the wall colour, or an accessory for example.
• White can always be added to a colour to make that colour paler.

Assignment

Have a go at creating a colour palette, as I did in this lesson, and experiment with how the colours work together - doing is the best way to learning!