Analogous colours

Analogous colours, that is those which are next to one another anywhere around the wheel are unified by their common hue. They are harmonious when placed side by side and can safely be used together to create a restful atmosphere. The combinations of red + purple or red + orange, yellow + orange or yellow + green, blue + green or blue + purple all work together and can be extended further by adding variations on either side as for example, dark green + light green + yellow or violet + dark blue + light blue. In point of fact, the simple colour definitions given in this example are really too crude, as it is the subtle variation in chroma and value which work best in any combination.

Many of the best unified colour schemes utilise a single hue, introducing change through variation in shades, tints and tones. For example, dark red, terra cotta, pink and cream could be the range of colours used for a room, all in harmony with one another.

Complementary colours

Complementary colours are the ones which are directly opposite one another anywhere on the colour wheel which have completely different hues. These colours placed together clash with one another, seeming apparently to vibrate, creating excitement and tension. Red and green, blue and orange, purple and yellow combinations compete against each other. This element of competition extends to cover the opposite third of the circle so that for example, yellow will clash with both red and blue. This situation is described by the term ‘colour triad’ and it can create an image or an environment which is intense, hostile or simply uncomfortable. A complementary colour scheme can be softened by combining split complements together. This involves using a single hue with the two colours on either side of its complement. For example, yellow with a blue/purple and a red/purple. This is not such a confrontational mix as pure complements but retains elements of vitality and excitement.