flexiblefullpage
billboard
interstitial1
catfish1
Currently Reading

Coloring in the Lines

Sponsored Content

Coloring in the Lines

Behind the science – and history – of finding the ‘right’ color


By powered by Valspar | December 12, 2014

Color as an important aspect of artistry and psychology has been well documented through the years, but the science of getting just the right hue can still be a tricky art. Attempts to understand color go back centuries, wrote David Euscher, IIDA, LEED AP, RID, in a blog post for A/E firm Page, where he is associate principal and senior designer. Long before Pantone and its proprietary color matching system, there was a 700-page tome, handmade in 1692, that described every color available to artists back then.

“What I find interesting about this book is it shows that, as observers of color in our environment, we have been trying to understand it so that we can capture the way colors affect us,” said Euscher in his blog post. “[We want to] repeat it, imitate it, and recreate the sensation or effect that was brought about by those colors.”

Created by a Dutch artist identified only as A. Boogert, the color guide describes how to create different colors using pigments and varying amounts of water. The art of mixing watercolors to create the “right” one continues in the methods available today to achieve a particular shade, said Euscher. “This book illustrates one author’s attempt to scientifically describe how to achieve specific colors so that producing [them] in artworks can be made more easily and reliably,” he wrote. Achieving the desired effect can go a long way in reinforcing corporate logos and schemes, or establishing moods and styles in different rooms, floors, or even separate facilities.

Today, artists and designers have at their disposal a variety of color reproduction systems, including Pantone, to achieve the desired effect clients are seeking. Selecting the ideal coating technology or paint system can mean the difference between a long-lasting façade color or an exterior that fades too easily soon after application.

Pantone itself has recently expanded beyond fashion—and into hospitality. In 2010, the company opened the Pantone Hotel in Brussels, Belgium. The hotel features minimalist color palettes inspired by Pantone’s own swatches. Designed by architect Olivier Hannaert and interior designer Michel Penneman, the colorful boutique hotel also spotlights Pantone-hued photos, bedding, and other small details found in a hotel room, transforming the hospitality experience into a truly “colorful” one for guests.

Related Stories

Architects | Aug 5, 2020

Final report: BD+C's 2020 Color Trends Report

This special research report from the editors of BD+C explores the leading trends and drivers related to the use of color on commercial, institutional, and multifamily building projects. 

Sponsored | | Jan 15, 2018

Innovations Pave the Way for High-Performing Metallic Coatings

Valspar's durable metallic coating systems are made to last while providing a vibrant sparkle

Sponsored | | Oct 10, 2017

Tracing Color Trends and the Paint Industry Through the Years

Innovations in technology mean today's architects have endless options when it comes to coating options.

Sponsored | | Sep 6, 2017

Special Effects: Going Beyond the Color Spectrum for Exteriors

AEC teams have endless options when it comes to choosing hues and effects for architectural coatings

Sponsored | | Jun 14, 2017

Psychology in the Coloring of Built Environments

Expert says some of color trend research really comes down to human psychological and emotional responses

Sponsored | | Apr 26, 2017

Advancements in Materials Open Up Color Trend Possibilities

For color experts, predicting trends before they happen requires a trained eye and being able to understand people

Sponsored | | Sep 9, 2015

Coloring with LEDs

Sponsored | Color Innovations Series | Aug 9, 2015

Campus Branding With Color

Iconic and identifiable colors play role in higher ed branding on campuses. - See more at: http://www.bdcnetwork.com/campus-branding-color#sthash.ijEP68Iy.dpuf

Sponsored | | Jun 18, 2015

The Nuance of Neutrals

 

boombox1
boombox2
native1

More In Category




halfpage1

Most Popular Content

  1. 2021 Giants 400 Report
  2. Top 150 Architecture Firms for 2019
  3. 13 projects that represent the future of affordable housing
  4. Sagrada Familia completion date pushed back due to coronavirus
  5. Top 160 Architecture Firms 2021