COLOR THEORY J ade S ch er b
Table of Contents
Informative
Analysis Me + Color
Theory + Color Designers + Color Film + Color Balance + Color Healthcare + Color Rhythm + Color Retail + Color Proportion + Scale + Color Photography + Color Variety + Color Rendering + Color Culture + Color
Me + Color C o lo r fo r m e i s e v e r yth i n g. It b r i n gs li fe i n to th e wo r ld I li v e i n an d i n fluen ces m y m o o d. I e n jo y wear i n g co lo r b e cau se i t e n h an ce s m y pe r so n ali ty. C o lo r i n de si gn i s i mpor tan t to study so th at th e co r r e ct ch o i ce s wi ll b e appli e d.
M y fav o r i te co lo r stem s fr o m th e pr i m ar y co lo r b lu e. Th e co m b i n ati o n s an d h ue s o f a b lu e-gr e e n appe al to m e m o st b e cau se th e r esulti n g co lo r i s b e au ti fu l an d calm i n g. It r em i n ds m e o f m y h o m e wh er e th e o ce an waves lap li gh tly o n th e sh o r e. Th e co lo r I m o st co m m o n ly wear i s o li v e gr e e n an d b e i ge b e cau se i t e n h an ce s m y o li v e-tan sk i n co lo r an d m y b lu e e ye s. Th e co lo r I wear le ast i s r ed b e cau se I fi n d i t v e r y str i k i n g an d co n tr asti n g to m y sk i n to n e . I te n d to e n jo y m i n i m ali sm wh e n appli e d to m y li v i n g spaces. Li gh t sh ades o f gr e e n , pi n k , b e i ge , gr e y, an d wh i te ar e m o st so o th i n g to m e . O n th e o ppo si te si de o f th e scale I e n jo y b o ld de si gn s such as M o r o ccan o r Asi an b e cau se th e y b r i n g i n co lo r an d patte r n s th at e x ci te m e .
Theory + Color Color theory is the study and practice of a set of principles used to understand the relationship among colors. Light is the essence of color, meaning color is the result of light reflected off the surface of an object into the eye, resulting in color vision.
Th e r e ar e th r e e pr o pe r ti e s o f li gh t: reflection: when light hits an object and reflects a color diffraction: when light is partially obstructed refraction: when light bends
Direct Color results from viewing a color on a particular surface. Indirect Color results from adjoining or opposite wall surfaces or objects reflecting their color.
The key factor that determines a color characteristic in the interior environment is the light source. When a color changes in appearance in different lighting condition it is called metamerism.
Color theorists have made their way in the history books because of their observations and discoveries. Isaac Newton discovered how color refracts when light hits a prism. Albert Munsell developed the color tree and developed the three dimensions of color: hue, value, and chroma. Josef Albers is known for defining the color relationships. Johannes Itten created the 12pointed color star and is also known for color contrasts. Faber Birren has written an extensive collection of 25 books on color. Terms hue: pure color value: lightness or darkness of a color chroma: purity of a color tint: adding white to a color tone: adding grey to a color shades: adding black to a color chromatic: all color except black achromatic: black, white, and grey primary hues: red, blue, yellow secondary hues: violet, green, orange tertiary hues: red-violet, blue-violet, blue-green, yellow-green, yellow-orange, red-orange split complimentary: composed of three colors consisting of one main hue plus two adjacent to its compliment
Designers + Color Chapel of St. Ignatius Designer: Steven Holl Location: Seattle, Washington Steven Holl was born in 1947 in Bremerton, Washington. He graduated from the University of Washington and decided to pursue architecture studies in Rome in 1970. In 1976 he attended graduate school in London, and after years of study he started up STEVEN HOLL ARCHITECTS in New York City. Holl has been recognized for several awards including: Honorary Fellow of The Royal Institute of British Architects, The National Design Award in Architecture, and the 2012 AIA Gold Medal. He has also been named by TIME Magazine “America’s Best Architect” for his buildings that “satisfy the spirit as well as the eye’. Today, Steven Holl is considered to be one of America’s most important architects because of his ability to blend space and light and stick to a concept driven design. He specializes in seamlessly integrating new projects into contexts with particular cultural and historic importance. Holl is a Professor at Colombia’s Graduate School of Architecture and Planning.
The Chapel of St. Ignatius is a Jesuit Chapel for Seattle University. Construction took place from 1994 to 1997. The theme of light directly corresponds to part of the Jesuit Catholic worship service, such as the south facing light parallels to the procession. As shown in the picture to the right, the light is sculpted by seven different volumes emerging from the structure. Each volume represents a specific room within the church. In the beginning stages of Holl’s Church of St. Ignatius, it is clear that light is a focal point of the design. Complimentary colors have been chosen to distinguish particular features of the interior. His structural notes suggest using zinc for the roof and wood for the structure. The contrast between materials would also reflect or absorb exterior light in different ways, creating an interesting effect of light. Early sketches brought Holl to his final design for the Chapel of St. Ignatius. From his watercolor sketches on the left, a neutral color palette is represented for both the interior and exterior of the building. The layout of the Chapel is comprised of six main sections that pertain to the Chapel’s function. Each section is represented by a color keeping with the concept that Holl wanted to apply. Both primary and complimentary colors are enforced in the distribution of the lights.
Blessed Sacrament
Procession
Nave
Narthex
Choir Reconciliation Chapel
The left picture is a view of the Procession, or the entrance. The three-story light well allows for natural lighting into the area and also illuminates the ceiling. To brighten up the space the walls were made of white plaster. The entrance door was constructed of wood to give organic contrast to the abstract structure. The dark concrete floor is meant to reflect the refracted light that floods the interior. The Narthex, in the above picture, is the lobby area that opens up to the exterior of the Chapel (shown in the left side of the Procession).
The two pictures presented to the right are views of the Nave. Each picture varies greatly in how light is perceived during different times of the day. The picture on the left is during the morning hours of the day where the natural light beams in through the windows behind the wall panel. A yellow light accents the natural lighting creating a broader effect. In the right picture, taken at a later time in the day, the colors of green and blue accent the wall panel. The white walls are dimmed by the lack of natural light and the polished concrete floor reflectance is greater. The use of artificial light warms the space and gives off an orange hue to the white walls.
The Blessed Sacrament is a room flooded with orange light. The white walls are coated in beeswax to have a richer absorption of light. The small window allows for some natural light to balance the darkness of the room.
The subtle direction of light vertically pointing to the Choir helps to pull attention to another section of the Chapel. This red light well can also be seen from the exterior front view. As the sun rotates, the beam of red light deepens to the corner of the walls. Blue accent lighting surrounds the ceiling detail and adds value to the red light well. The red and blue hues add intensity to the ceiling while casting a pleasing effect towards the north are of the Chapel.
Conclusion The Chapel of St. Ignatius is an exceptional example of the use of light and color. Natural light affects color in different ways depending on factors such as the time of day, the reflectance or absorption of a material, or the strength of sunlight. Steven Holl chose to use both primary colors and complimentary colors in order to achieve a successful mood. The contrast of true colors to neutral colors gives the interior of the Chapel an intriguing aesthetic. The exterior of the Chapel is just as appealing with its serene courtyard and unique bell tower. Holl wanted to create a non traditional Chapel without taking from the function, and in doing so he developed an iconic example of good architecture.
Film + Color Life of Pi The movie begins with a writer seeking to hear the intriguing story of a man named Pi Patel. Pi goes on to tell the writer that he grew up in Pondicherry, India where his family owned a zoo. Pi is raised on the Hindu religion but is introduced to Christianity and Islam and decides to follow all three religions, which is unusual to his father. When Pi is 16 his father decides for the family to move to Canada where they will sell the zoo animals. Pi’s family books passage with the animals on a Japanese freighter, but the journey is unsuccessful due to a storm that sinks the freighter, leaving Pi to survive alone on a lifeboat. After the seas calm, Pi awakens to discover he is not alone of the lifeboat but in the presence of a zebra, hyena, and orangutan. The hyena kills both the zebra and the orangutan before being killed by a tiger that suddenly emerges from underneath the tarp. The tiger also tries to kill Pi but retreats under the tarp for a few days. Pi names the tiger Richard Parker, after the tiger in his family’s zoo. The story continues with Pi learning to survive on the boat with a tiger, resorting to fishing, training the tiger, and drifting off into imaginary states of the mind. Pi and the tiger happen upon an island where they are able to gather food and rest for a few days before realizing the island is carnivorous and setting back out to sea. The movie ends with Pi washing up on shore and parting with the tiger, and then telling his story in the hospital to doctors who think he is delusional.
Main Color Palette Life of Pi utilizes color throughout the movie to highlight themes, objects, and symbols.
Themes Islam Themes Hinduism Richard Parker Objects Boat Oars Buoy Tarpaulin Whistle Life Jacket Symbols Hope Energy Creativity Determination Survival
Themes Hinduism Islam Objects Can of Food Sun Beach Sand Symbols Knowledge Paradise Respect Positivity Spiritual Victory
Objects Mosque Streets Island Sea Turtles Symbols Beauty Joy Health Growth Harmony Hope
Themes Christianity Objects Sky Ocean Symbols Purity
Scene Analysis After Pi finds himself on a life boat with a tiger he decides to make a raft and float at a distance to protect himself from potential death. While floating on the raft Pi discovers the bioluminescence of night time sea life. While gazing in the open waters Pi is surprised by the breaching of a whale, which lands on the rope connecting him to the boat. This disruption leads Pi to swim back to the boat and learn to coexist with the tiger. Color Analysis The night scenes shown to the left show a broad range of blue colors with a hint of green. Green symbolizes beauty, hope, and harmony in the movie Life of Pi. As Pi floats in the water he is able to gain a sense of peace and harmony when the ocean lights up with green luminescence. The blue ocean surrounding him is now calm therefor grounding him in his new journey. The mood of the scenes depict serenity rather than hostility due to the ranges of blue shades. The shades of blue are soft and have a pleasing contrast against the dark night sky. The bright green is engaging & helps clarify a dream like state of mind.
Scene Analysis Pi is able to fish for food to sustain himself and the tiger. Through this he is able to tame the tiger and let his guard down a bit. Self-reflectance is shown through scenes of tranquility and peace. Pi has many of these scenes in both the day and night. While at sea, Pi comes by an island where he is able to find an abundance of food for himself and Richard Parker. After some amount of time spent resting and rejuvenating Pi comes to the realization that the island is carnivorous leading him to leave. Color Analysis In the top scene there is a great contrast in the boat and sea. The orange interior of the boat represents hope, determination, and survival. Having this stimulating color in the boat in important for Pi because it gives him strength to keep living. The golden scene represents spirituality and positivity. On his journey Pi reflects on his situation and his outlook begins to change. The island has tones of greens and browns which conveys stability and harmony. Pi is able to find comfort while on the island which is important for him to move on as a stronger person.
Scene Analysis After being at sea for several months, Pi and the tiger are exhausted, famished, and near death. Pi comforts the tiger, finally creating a bond of friendship and trust. The lifeboat finally washes up on a beach leading Pi to lay on the sand and rejoice. The tiger gets off the boat and walks towards the jungle never looking back. Pi is left heartbroken after the tiger retreats into the jungle without an appropriate goodbye. Color Analysis In the final scenes of the movie the colors become muted in appearance. This color change is a result of the protagonist's weak state of being. The tiger is so weak that he gives in to Pi’s touch, shown in the top scene. The tiger’s dull color gives the audience a grasp on the movie’s mood change. When Pi washes up on shore, the colors turn to various shades of browns and golds giving a sense of victory as well as solemnness. As the tiger retreats into the jungle, the recurring colors of gold, green, and blue are presented, highlighting the feelings of positivity, hope, & purity.
Balance + Color
Balance is the relationship of different hues to one another when each is perceived to be equal in perceived visual weight. Good color balance involves to the amount of color used, the number of colors used, the visual weight of colors, and the location of colors within the space. Interior spaces should have a minimum of a 3value scheme. Contrast is the opposition in order to show or emphasize differences between two objects. Yellow is the brightest of the primary and secondary hues, whereas blue is the darkest, creating a strong contrast between the two. Hue balance are colors that when placed next to one another intensify the other hue, making each to appear brighter. Colors opposite on the color wheel give this complementary effect of hue balance.
Healthcare + Color
Healthcare Design is changing because of evidence based design and research suggesting that a healthcare environment can improve patient well-being if the correct application is present. Goals of healing environments are: to strive to heal the patient, support the staff, and engage the family. Research suggests that there are 12 aspects of a healing environment: 1. Provide single patient rooms 2. Ergonomic furniture 3. Furniture arrangement 4. Better air quality 5. Provide windows 6. Wayfinding methods 7. Building layouts + zoning 8. Access to nature 9. Natural lighting 10. Floor materials 11. Noise control 12. Positive distraction through aesthetics
Physical and mental well-being is the top concern for a hospital.
Eric Fromm coined the term biophilia which is the human attraction to nature. Providing healthcare patients and staff with access to nature, such as gardens and windows, has been proven to provide mental relief and increase positive attitudes.
Rhythm + Color
Rhythm is the natural evolutionary trait that can be transferred to interior spaces and can be further emphasized with color. Rhythm can be achieved through color contrast or similarity in hue, value, and intensity.
Types of rhythm include: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Repetition Alternation Progression Continuation Radiation
The purpose of rhythm is to provide an opportunity to move the viewer through the space, creating moments for emphasizing or downplaying various design elements. Lighting levels need to be considered for desired effect of rhythm. Stronger levels create stronger visual reaction while dimmer levels create more subtle results. As a general rule of thumb, design elements should either be grouped together or isolated from each other completely.
Retail + Color
Contrast of Hue Contrast is defined as the “visual (characteristics of shape and color), dimensional, or
quantitative differences that distinguish one shape, part of a shape, or group of shapes from another shape, another part of the same shape, or another group of shapes.” (Wong, 1997, p. 77) The Sleep Number store supplies contrast by creating a darker space as you travel to the back of the store. The sleep number store revolves around the concept of creating a cozy atmosphere, therefor the need for contrast is important to give viewers a sense of a nighttime setting for sleeping. The cream white walls and ceiling help to create a clean atmosphere free of turmoil. This implementation of light color and warm lighting creates a stress free environment Ideal for bedroom setting. The bottom picture’s view of the Sleep Number store shows the contrast between the front entrance and the back of the store. Coming into a space during the daytime can be bright and harsh on the eyes if too much white is present. The Sleep Number store implements good design by limiting the amount of lighting in a predominately white atmosphere. The use of the dim lighting towards the back of the store sets the tone for what the store is advertising: a good night's sleep. Partition walls also help to divide the space and create contrast among different areas in the store.
Contrast of Value The contrast in value is not as strong because of the overall mood in which the store is attempting to create. The Sleep Number store is advertising a good nights rest, so if they were to create a strong contrast in value between colors the store concept may be unclear making the design unsuccessful. However, the space pictured below shows greater contrast of value giving more importance to the bed.
A
colorful
ceiling
lights
feature
and
that
music
displays
provides
a
video
emphasis
of and
draws the viewer to the space in order to learn more about what is being featured.
Design Feature On the right side of the picture a child's bed set up is displayed to show differentiation and contrast between ages. This pop of color could be seen as negatively affecting the overall design because of the potential hierarchy it displays. On the other hand it could be a positive design feature because it brings a focus to the need of comfortable sleeping for all ages. The overall circulation of the space is round with subtle angles that soften the features of the store. This design feature further sets the mood for the store by creating an inviting atmosphere free of sharp angles. The space is fairly open and easy to maneuver around.
Contrast of Texture Contrast of texture is seen on the floor, walls, and furniture. Where as the walls are more contemporary
and painted in a matte white, the floor is comprised of a darker patterned carpet with areas of tile to give focus to certain features in the store. The furniture is soft and upholstered with fabric to give a cozy feeling in the space. This design feature evokes positive design by following the overall setting of the store and limiting the amount of hard surfaces that could be seen as uninviting in such a place. Since
sleeping
comfortably
involves
the
right
pillow
most of the time importance has been given to the PillowFit
section
difference
of
between
the
store.
flooring,
By
light
distinguishing
the
versus
and
dark
carpet versus vinyl, the viewer is drawn to the area designated for pillows. A clear color scheme of blues and grays is displayed because these colors often evoke comfort and relaxation.
Focal Point The innercircle LOUNGE is a focal point in the store because of the drop-down ceiling feature and the
inviting
area
displayed
beneath.
The
space
is
provided
to
relax
and
gain
a
better
understanding of the sleep number beds. This space also contains more lighting than the other spaces within the store, giving importance to communication with the employees.
Conclusion Retail stores can either be successful or unsuccessful depending on their design features, contrasts, use of color, and focal points. Good design gives attention to every detail in order to create the mood in which the store is attempting to set. Too much attention to one area can deteriorate from the overall concept so it is important to take into account all different aspects of color and design to create a unique environment appropriate for the whole space.
Proportion + Scale + Color
Proportion refers to the size relationships between elements (parts) and the visual composition or space (whole). Scale is the size of a shape in relation to a given known, in most cases, the human body and its position within space. Janet Ford defines six elements to consider for color proportioning: 1. Color with largest proportional area is the dominant color. 2. Smaller areas are subdominant colors. 3. Accent colors are those with a small relative area but offer a contrast because of variation in hue, intensity, or saturation. 4. Accent color equals small areas of light color on a dark background, or vice versa. 5. If large areas of light hue are used, the whole area will appear light if large areas of dark values are used, the whole area a ppears dark. 6. Alternating color by intensity rather than proportion will also change the perceived visual mix of color.
Whereas proportion is concerned with the relationships of various parts arranged to create scale is an aesthetically pleasing whole, concerned with the relative size of space.
Photography + Color
Variety + Color
Variety is the principle of design that is concerned with the combination of one or more color elements with shape, form, pattern, and texture create diversity and contrast in an interior space. A color scheme can enhance the visual interest of your interior space, which can also mean using an achromatic color scheme to create a sophisticated space full of dark and light contrasts. Variety adds a visual break from design in a complex manner. Line is the connection between two points in space. A line can be used to communicate direction of how the viewer analyzes a space. The use of vertical, diagonal, or horizontal lines create dimension and pattern in a space, which adds variety and complexity to an interior. Shape is another design tool used to add variety and interest into a space. The use of angles or curves in walls, furniture, patterns, or wayfinding can create visual interest. Careful application must be delivered in order not to confuse the viewer or create chaos within the space.
Materials used can vary in texture, color, pattern, or type. Wood textures add a natural aesthetic; and combine with the correct colors can create a welcoming interior. On the other hand the use of plastics and metal may create a sterile environment. It is important to add variety in materials when designing spaces so the correct intention of the space is clearly comprehendible.
Rendering + Color
Choice Description The color scheme I chose varies from cool hues to warm hues. Light grey tones represent cleanliness, clarity, and calmness. The olive-grey tone gives a structure as it relates to the muddy earth tones seen in root systems and nature bases, such as tree trunks or flower stems. Warm yellow tones create happiness and excitement, a large contrast to the calming grey tones. Together these colors applied in nearly all bedroom, or even a harmonious and joyful
combine a unique and inviting color scheme that can be spaces, whether it be a living room, dining room, a bathroom. I enjoy this color scheme because it is to me.
ACCENT 1
ACCENT 3
ACCENT 2
The color scheme chosen for my rendering shows an example of both an analogous and monochromatic color combination. The deep golden yellow transitioning to a light pastel yellow and then to a muddy olive-grey tone shows a pleasing analogous pairing on the color wheel. DOMINANT
SECONDARY 2
SECONDARY 1
Color Description
A monochromatic color scheme is shown in the light grey tones that help to calm down the vibrancy of strong colors. A combination of monochromatic tones with strong colors gives a balancing harmony to any space.
Experience + Results I enjoyed working on this rendering for a few reasons: I love working in Photoshop, rendering is FUN, and I always learn something new when doing an assignment. I recently started an internship working with a high-end residential firm and I am constantly absorbing knowledge of how to pair colors and create an inviting space. I know I have a lot to learn but I feel like this project helped me apply my new knowledge and create a fun, contemporary living room space.
Culture + Color
Color Palette Symbolism Red composes 7 stripes of 13 on the flag and symbolizes hardiness & valour.
White composes the other 6 stripes on the flag and symbolizes purity & innocence. Blue is the background for the 50 stars and symbolizes the Chief, vigilance, perseverance & justice. Green is the color of American money is often associated with greed. It also represents nature. Black represents power and strength and is closely related to the American Dream of success. Purple symbolizes loyalty and honor. The military’s highest award is the purple heart.
Home Culture My culture and country is most closely associated with America. Although my heritage predominately stems from German roots, my family has lived in America for generations and celebrates American traditions. It may sound clichÊ but I am proud to be and American! America is about freedom, ironic since the migrating Europeans stole the Native Americans’ freedom. However, the America that exists today believes in fighting for the rights that allow our land to remain a free country. The Independence Day for America is July 4th, 1776 and is celebrated annually by showcasing fireworks, enjoying each others company, and remembering the day America broke away from the British Empire. Since America is a melting pot of cultures many different religions and holidays are celebrated year round, some of which include Christmas, Hanukah, Thanksgiving, Labor Day, and Martin Luther King Day. America is the leading industry in entertainment and brings many cultures together and creates diversity and acceptance in America. Gay pride is a large part of the growing American culture as people are becoming more in touch with interests and differences.
Color Palette Symbolism Black is one of the flag colors to represent the semiofficial coat of arms of the Holy Roman Empire. Red symbolizes the Hanseatic League. Culture also sees it as energy and eroticism. Gold, along with black, represents the Austrian Empire. It also is seen as “the light of freedom”. White was used for the new German flag during Nazi rule but was changed back to gold after some debate. Green symbolizes ecology, health, & positivity and is a common color in style by its wide acceptance. Grey represents design, purism, and concrete. Germans predominately wear neutral colors.
Foreign Culture German culture interests me because my roots link strongly to German heritage. Exploring my heritage has always interested me since I do not know much about it. My sister has told me that our last name Scherb originates from Hamburg, Germany, a major port city in Northern Germany.
A popular trade from Germany is their luxury car brands such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche. These car brands are highly valued all over the world because of their expert manufacturing and because they show class and money. Germany is at the center of Europe, both geographically and politically. Germans are said to value structure, privacy, and punctuality. Historically Germany has been called “Das Land der Dichter und Denker" which translates to “the country of poets and thinkers”. The national colors of the Federal Republic of Germany are red, black, and gold and were re-established in 1949 with the adoption of the flag. Germans celebrate many Christian holidays such as Christmas and Easter, being that their main religion is Christianity. Oktoberfest is another main holiday that Germans look forward to every year, as it is the country’s traditional beer bash. The tradition is said to have started in 1810 with the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen.
COLOR THEORY J ade S ch er b