Sheila Almendros
The primary colors are represented by the most vibrant tones of the palette, becoming the basis of everything in the decoration, from the coating to the colorful furniture. They are formed by pure colors and, together with their variations, create infinite design possibilities, for example, sensations, visual tricks and even solidification of styles, explained Fernanda Geraldini and Gabriela Zanardo, from Architecture Triad. To better understand the concept and its application, follow the article.
What are primary colors?
The primary colors are formed by the trio blue, red and yellow. According to the duo of architects, they cannot be created from the combination of other colors, hence the name “pure colors”. They can also be called “base colors” because when mixed together they create other colors on the color wheel.
Secondary colors
Secondary colors are formed by mixing the primary colors in equal proportions: yellow mixed with red results in orange, blue and yellow form green, and red and blue result in purple. In addition to this table, it is possible to create a new layer of tones – the tertiary colors.
tertiary colors
Tertiary colors are provided by mixing one color from the primary and one from the secondary table. They expand the range of shades: red-purple, red-orange, yellow-orange, yellow-green, blue-green and blue-purple.
Neutral colors
Neutral colors are formed by white, black and gray. They are not used in the aforementioned combinations. “This basic trio has low intensity and is used as a complement in other shades”, explained the duo from Tríade Arquitetura.
The 12 colors presented form a main set of tones: the color wheel. Next, discover how this essential piece can help you create a visual concept for your decor.
The color wheel and its combinations
The color wheel is a fundamental tool for creating varied and creative color palettes. The Tríade architects answered the main questions on the subject. Check it out and enjoy the tips to achieve the perfect balance in decoration:
What is color wheel?
Architecture Triad (TA): the color wheel is a representation of primary, secondary, tertiary colors and their variations. In all, the circle is divided into 12 parts, like a pizza, with 3 primary colors, 3 secondary colors and 6 tertiary colors.
What is the importance of the color wheel in decoration?
NF: with the chromatic circle, we were able to create harmony and unity for the environments we create, because colors are essential, conveying feelings and sensations. Therefore, choosing them correctly is essential.
How is the color wheel used to make color combinations in decoration?
NF: you can use the circle in various ways and make countless color combinations. For this, it is essential to know what you want to convey and what the concept of the project is. The concept options are: monochromatic, analogous colors, complementary colors and triad.
What are monochromatic colors?
NF: are the colors we usually call tone on tone. It’s the simplest category of all, as you just choose a color and use the shade variations. Remembering that this is a harmonic choice, capable of leaving modern environments.
What are analog colors?
NF: are the colors that are side by side on the color wheel, such as yellow, orange and green. This option is very good for creating a unit of color in space. If you complement it with cold touches, you will have a more sophisticated and formal atmosphere. Warm tones add relaxation and informality.
What are complementary colors and how to add them to the decor?
NF: Complementary colors are those that have the greatest contrast with each other. They are in opposite positions on the circle, like red and green. The complementary color of a primary will always be a secondary and vice versa. The complement of a tertiary will always be another tertiary. This type of combination is excellent for creating an environment with bright colors, more energy and personality. Just be careful with the excesses of very vibrant tones so as not to leave the space suffocating.
What is triad?
NF: the junction of three equidistant points (which have the same distance) on the color wheel, forming a triangle. By using this combination, you will have an environment full of personality, but softer.
When does the color wheel come into decoration planning?
NF: from the interview we do with the client. From that, we can already feel what he wants for the space and what he wants to convey. So, ideas are already starting to emerge and we already know what combinations to suggest.
Is it possible to plan a decoration without using the color wheel?
NF: we don’t think it’s possible, because we always use a certain color on the walls, so we complement it with objects and accessories. The color wheel is indispensable.
How can primary colors be highlighted in decor?
NF: we can highlight assembling compositions that were mentioned above, using the primary color as the main element of the decoration.
Can primary colors be combined with each other in the decor?
NF: yes, through triad combination, they can be combined to create a design concept. Even being colors with personality, it is possible to create a beautiful and harmonious environment.
The use of colors in decoration has always been essential to add identity to the environment. It is necessary to understand the use of colors and the whole concept behind each choice.
How to use primary colors in decoration ensuring good taste and personality
After the architects’ explanations, you will see the projects below with different eyes. The primary colors were used in the right measure for each type of decoration:
1. For a monochromatic wall, a yellow sofa
2. To highlight a primary color, use a neutral color
3. See how blue stands out with the trick
4. The three primary colors were present in different proportions
5. Red fits perfectly even in classic decorations
6. A palette formed by blue, yellow and a little red spice
7. See how primary colors work perfectly in the children’s room
8. The clean room came to life with the red sofa
9. When tiles match chairs
10. Red and yellow accessories added personality to the blue predominance
11. An infallible combination of furniture and bedding
12. Blue and yellow create a fun contrast
13. Ceramic in natural tones highlights the yellow woodwork
14. You can’t go wrong with red and black
15. An environment with a predominance of yellow gains a jovial atmosphere
16. Red looks amazing in vintage style
17. A pillow to warm the room
18. A creative palette to spark creativity in the youth bedroom
19. Red and blue in modern decor
20. In this project the primary colors were added to the textures
21. The light blue leaves the decor with a touch of lightness
22. Who said there is no marriage between yellow and blue?
23. The combination works just as well in more sober decorations
24. As for more fun environments
25. A striking color can also be added to prints
26. Pastel blue marries perfectly with gray
27. Primary colors can become the color point in the basic decoration
28. In softer tones, it conveys a unique warmth
29. A room completely marked by blue and red
30. The yellow glittering in front of the blue in the soft version
31. The blue tiles and their nuances ensured rusticity to the project
32. The red frame contrasts with the various shades of blue in the room
33. Speaking of red, how about highlighting the color in the bathroom?
34. It can make a perfect pair with yellow in woodworking and accessories
35. Or guarantee elegance next to blue in the entrance hall
36. Navy blue is a classic in tapestry
37. A room like this deserves an illustrious red carpet rolled out
38. Red and white form an unbeatable duo
39. The sectored blue demarcated the environment in the integrated kitchen
40. This project used and abused primary colors in different ways
When using one, two or all three primary tones, the balance of the card is guaranteed by the neutral colors in the decoration, which add a fine balance, whether in the details or with predominance. Working harmoniously with the proportions, you will have an environment full of identity and style.
