Guidelines for using colour

Consider carefully before deviating from these natural guide-lines. Use the most intense hues and values in areas occupied for short periods of time such as formal dining rooms, hallways, staff lunchrooms, laundries, entrances, etc. Avoid monotony and treat the eye and psyche to at least a moderate variety. Visual stimulus or relief is vital. Harmonious colour selections are created by a pleasing relationship of the three dimensions of colour: hue, intensity and value.

The human eye is pleased when correct proportions in colour are achieved. A touch of contrasting colour can be lively and exciting but too much can become uncomfortable. On the other hand, too much moderation produces dullness. Personal taste and preferences are the most important considerations in choosing a colour scheme.

Think of colour as a chameleon:

• It changes depending upon accent colours.
• It is influenced by adjacent colours.
• White or beige colours will take on the tint of adjacent hues.
• Large areas intensify the colours.