Dawn Scott, Senior Colour Designer & Inclusive Style Lead at Dulux, has actually produced a School of Spec module on specifying colour. Here she discusses colour theory and perception, along with the benefits of utilizing the Dulux colour notation system.
What is colour theory and why is it crucial in design?Colour theory is the science and art of utilizing colour intentionally. At its core, it explains how colours associate with one another on the colour wheel, how they communicate visually, and how they influence human perception. In design, colour theory surpasses aesthetics; it notifies how we create state of mind, support performance, and improve user experience. Colour perception is deeply rooted in psychology– specific hues can calm or energise, help wayfinding, or signal risk. For architects and specifiers, understanding these concepts assists equate innovative intent into practical, constructed outcomes that carry out along with they look.
How do we perceive colour?Colour perception is shaped by our biology and the environment around us. The human visual system responds to light bouncing off surface areas, so aspects like light source, surface texture, sheen level, and surrounding colours all affect what we see. A colour seen under warm synthetic light might appear completely different in cool daylight. Gloss finishes show more light and can appear darker than the very same colour in matt. Even the size of the painted location can impact perception. Colour is never seen in isolation, it’s always contextual.
Understanding colour in context– not in isolation– is the crucial to getting it best”
What is the Dulux colour notation system and how does it help designers interact colour accurately?The Dulux colour
notation system breaks down colour into 3 crucial homes: Hue– the colour family Light
- Reflectance Worth( LRV)– a percentage that demonstrates how much noticeable light a colour reflects Chroma– the strength or saturation of the colour For example, in
- the colour recommendation 30BB 08/263: 30BB suggests the Shade,
so blue in this instance 08 is the
- LRV– suggesting it reflects just 8 percent of noticeable light 263 is the Chroma, positioning it in the moderate saturation range on a scale from 0 to 999 LRV is especially essential when developing inclusive spaces, as it assists ensure suitable contrast
in between vital surfaces, such as floorings and walls, or walls and doorframes, which can help navigation, safety and compliance. Utilizing a standardised colour notation makes it easier for architects, specifiers and professionals to interact plainly and consistently. How can colour be utilized to affect how a space feels or performs?Colour has a powerful impact on spatial experience. Warm tones(reds, oranges )tend to feel more intimate and energising, while cool tones(blues, greens)feel calmer and more expansive. Darker colours can make walls appear closer or ceilings feel lower. Lighter tones can help open smaller areas. Colour zoning can be utilized for navigation, to specify function, or to support neurodiverse requirements. In healthcare and education settings, colour likewise adds to psychological health and wellbeing, sensory guideline, and ease of access. What practical guidance would you provide to architects and designers when selecting or specifying colour?Always test colours in context– preferably on website, on the substrate
, at the scale they will be utilized, and in the lighting conditions the area will experience(both natural and synthetic ). Know the impact of lighting temperatures and the finish you will be using, as gloss, matt or textured finishes all show light in a different way. Fan decks and sample cards work tools, but they should be a beginning point, not the final decision. Understanding colour in context– not in seclusion– is the key to getting it right.