In our last two articles on understanding the color wheel, we dealt with the basics of color theory and learnt about various color schemes. You can read about them in part1 and part2.
In this concluding part of our 3 part series on the color wheel, we tell you more about interesting color schemes using up to four colors for creating eye-catching yet pleasing interiors. Let’s plunge right in!
Triadic scheme: A triadic scheme uses any three equally spaced colors on the color wheel. For example, green, orange and purple or red, blue and yellow.
The best way to use a triadic color scheme is to choose one dominant color and use the other two hues for accents.
In the home interiors featured here, shades of deep red dominate, with accents provided by the yellow chair and the blue table tops.
Tetradic scheme: The tetradic scheme is also called the rectangle color scheme, due to the shape it makes on the color wheel.
This color scheme uses two pairs of complementary colors, usually two warm and two cool colors. So, it is also called a double complementary color scheme.
As four colors are involved, this scheme creates a dramatic harmony of colors. However, if overused, this color scheme can easily produce a flashy and crude effect.
These vibrantly colored chairs in complementary colors of yellow and purple and blue and orange can be used to add a splash of color to any muted decor in neutral colors like beige or ivory.
Square scheme: This color scheme involves using four equally spaced colors such as red and green and orange and blue-green on the color wheel.
The key to successfully using this color scheme is to use one dominant color and smaller amounts of the other three colors.
The use of warm colors like yellow and red is balanced by blue and green accents in the living room featured here.
Color harmonies reflect your personal style. The color combinations mentioned in the color schemes are only suggestions and are by no means hard and fast rules. However, effective use of colors creates a visually balanced experience which in turn is pleasing.
We hope that our three part basic guide to color theory, will help you avoid pitfalls while experimenting with colors and help in unleashing your creativity. Do let us know in the comments.
