A square color scheme is defined by its simplicity, stability, and functionality. Square color schemes are a unique and fun way to add interest to graphic design. Combining red, yellow, and blue or cyan, magenta, and green can create dynamic color palettes that aren’t boring like many traditional color schemes. But how do you use square color schemes?
In this blog, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about squares schemes, so let’s dive in!
What Is A Square Color Scheme?
A square color scheme is based on the principle of using evenly spaced colors. In addition, you choose the color palette of this scheme type based on the position of the color wheel.
If you decide to include red in your square color scheme, then the other colors that will be part of your scheme are blue-violet , green, and yellow-orange.
But this is not all. You can create your own square color schemes regardless of which main color you choose.
In addition to the square color scheme, there is something similar called a rectangular color scheme. A rectangular color scheme is the richest of all available color schemes because it gives you the most variety. But remember: creating such a scheme isn’t easy, and if you don’t choose the right proportions, the results can be unsightly.
How To Create A Square Color Palette?
To create a square color palette, choose your favorite color. Then you can identify the other colors that are at an equal distance from that color. You have to count three spaces clockwise or counter-clockwise on the color wheel to find the next color for your palette, to which you will end up with two pairs of complementary colors.
However, if you’re using a more complex color wheel than the traditional one, which has 12 colors, you’ll need to use software so you can create a visually aesthetic and appealing design.
How to Create a Rectangular Color Palette
Similar to creating the square color palette, you can choose a color you would like to appear in your color palette and simply count two spaces on the color wheel in either direction. The other two colors should be just opposite on the color wheel.
In addition, you should be careful when using rectangular colors because they tend to be overwhelming. This comes from their vibrancy and expressivity.
Colors Scheme Examples
Now that we covered the basics, let’s see some color scheme examples in which square and rectangular schemes have been implemented.
Square Color Harmony
Rectangular Color Harmony
Color theory is not an easy concept to grasp and digest so quickly. It is super important to know the basic rules so you can create amazing designs. The images that you just saw above are perfect color scheme examples in which color theory has been applied successfully. And you can tell because the results are stunning!
Now let’s jump into some tricks that can help you summon your inner graphic designer.
Bonus: What Is Color Harmony & Why You Need To Know About It
Tips & Tricks
Start with dark
You will choose four colors for your palette and they will have different shades, tints, and tones. If you make your darkest color dominant, it’ll be easier to choose lighter ones that match. You can also arrange your colors starting from the bottom – the lowest part of your image should be the darkest, and the highest should be the brightest. For example, if you have to design a room, the floor will be the darkest color and the ceiling the lightest.
Combine with black
A modern way you can make use of a square color scheme is by combining it with black. Therefore, your dominant color will be black and the four colors that you choose for your palette will act as accent colors. For example, this can be used in decorating modern bedrooms or kitchens.
Combine with white
This is the opposite of what you just read above. You can also combine your square color scheme with white. Now, you have chosen white as your dominant color, and the square palette is giving your design vibrancy and life. If you happen to be an interior designer, this is a nice way to decorate a small room so it looks bigger.
Follow the 60-30-10 rule
If you’re new to interior design, this rule is one that you need to remember. It is a classic rule of thumb that helps you balance your color palette. You need to make sure that 60% of your decorating space is the dominant color, 30% should be the secondary color and 10% should be an accent.
If you’re still unsure what this means, here’s an example of how that can be used:
To Wrap Things Up
The square color scheme is a simple and effective design layout. However, there are certain guidelines to follow in order to create an effective design using this pattern.
In this blog, we’ve provided you with some useful tips that will help you create amazing designs using square color harmony. However, if you’re new to all of this and you still feel this is too much, we’ve got your back!
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