Boysen came out with a set of cards ages ago that depicted 60 things to know about paint and colors. For this post, I would like to write about contrasting colors, also known as complementary colors, in home interiors.
If you want to learn about color theory, it is best to go back to the Color Wheel. Please click on the link to see the video that explains a simple color wheel, and also look at the color wheel that shows the primary, secondary, and tertiary colors.
Color Wheel
Primary colors are red, blue, and yellow.
Secondary colors are the mixture of two primary colors, or
yellow + red = orange
red + blue = violet
blue + yellow = green
Tertiary colors are the mixture of one primary color and a secondary color, or
yellow + orange = yellow orange
red + orange = red orange
red + violet = red violet
blue + violet = blue violet
blue + green = blue green
yellow + green = yellow green
If you are a visual learner, visit the link to watch the video and look at the infographics.
Contrasting or Complementary Colors
Based on this color wheel, contrasting or complementary colors are colors that are at the opposite sides of the wheel. In color psychology, such a color combination creates a strong visual impact and gives the room a vibrant feel. You can use the strong visual contrast to highlight elements in a living space.
Tip: Mixing complementary colors will usually result in a neutral color, like grey or brown, because they usually neutralize each other and create a muted color.
Red and Green
How about a green wall to show off your red refrigerator? The effect is bold and spirited, which works well for a kitchen. If you want to avoid channeling the Christmas vibe, you can use other tones of red and green. But if you’re up for this festive ambience, the swatches Bright Red and Cute Pixie is a great combination.
Blue and Orange
The understated effect of the blue and orange combination in this living room is because the primary color used is blue of Florida Waters painted on the wall, while the orange of Cheddar Cheese can be found only in the throw pillows. Yet, despite the small surface area, the orange glows in the darkness of the blue, and elevates the feel from dull to exciting. Add accessories of light wood and metal to get a snug living room that invites quiet and cozy interactions.
Violet and Yellow
Are you brave enough to paint your walls with the violet of Plum Preserve? If you are, add black and white graphic prints. It works also very well with black home accessories and a checkerboard floor. As a pièce de résistance, plonk a cheerful yellow stool, and use Glitter Yellow to coat it. Combining the curvy forms of the floor lamp and the vases with the geometric shapes of the floor, the shelf, the print, and the repeating lines of the slats in the backrest balances softness with structure and creates a dynamic tableau.
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