Burnt orange and terracotta are two similar shades of orange that are often confused with one another. While they share some similarities, there are some key differences between the two colors that set them apart. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into burnt orange vs. terracotta – from how they’re defined and what colors make up each shade to design uses and how to tell these warm orange hues apart.
Defining Burnt Orange and Terracotta
First, let’s start by defining what exactly burnt orange and terracotta colors are:
Burnt Orange
Burnt orange is a dark shade of orange that gets its name from looking like the color of burnt or scorched orange peels or embers. It sits between regular orange and brown on the color spectrum and has a reddish-orange tone that can vary from bright to more muted. The hex code for burnt orange is #CC5500.
Terracotta
Terracotta is an earthy type of orange, inspired by the natural clay used to make terracotta pottery and roof tiles. It’s a warm, reddish-orange hue that gets its rich color from iron oxide pigments. Terracotta sits closer to the brown and red end of the orange color spectrum. The hex code for terracotta is #E2725B.
Color Mixes and Origins
Now that we know how burnt orange and terracotta are defined, let’s look at what primary colors make up each of these secondary shades of orange:
What Makes Up Burnt Orange
Burnt orange is made up of a mix of red and yellow. It sits between the primary colors of red and yellow on the color wheel. The higher amount of red undertones gives burnt orange its deeper, almost brownish look compared to pure orange.
What Makes Up Terracotta
Terracotta clay’s distinct hue comes from its origins and composition. The clay contains iron oxide, which gives it a strong reddish-orange color. To recreate this color in paint or digital formats, terracotta contains a mix of red and orange, and sometimes brown. The higher red concentration gives terracotta an earthier look compared to burnt orange.
Comparing Burnt Orange and Terracotta
Now that we know the definitions and origins of burnt orange and terracotta, let’s directly compare the two shades:
| Color | Hue | Brightness | Hex Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burnt Orange | Reddish-orange | Bright to muted | #CC5500 |
| Terracotta | Reddish-orange, earthy | Muted | #E2725B |
Looking at this comparison, we can see some key differences:
- Burnt orange is a more vibrant, reddish shade while terracotta is earthier and muted.
- Burnt orange has a wider range of brightness while terracotta is a consistently muted tone.
- The hex codes show burnt orange having more yellow while terracotta leans more heavily into red tones.
So while both are reddish-oranges, burnt orange is brighter and more vibrant while terracotta is a more muted, earthy hue.
Design Uses
Now let’s examine how burnt orange and terracotta are each used in design:
Uses for Burnt Orange
Thanks to its eye-catching vibrancy, burnt orange pops when used in:
- Accent colors
- Call-to-action buttons
- Graphic design elements
- Logos and branding
Burnt orange injects energy into any design, making it a lively accent color. It also stands out well against neutral backgrounds. Brands like Netflix, HubSpot, and Arizona State University have used burnt orange in their logos and branding.
Uses for Terracotta
Terracotta’s earthy, muted personality makes it shine when used for:
- Home decor
- Craft projects
- Autumnal designs
- Rustic or boho aesthetics
Terracotta brings a natural, warm look to home decor, tableware, textiles, and craft projects. Its softer earth tones complement farmshouse, Mediterranean, Southwest, and bohemian aesthetics well. Many autumn designs also incorporate terracotta colors to evoke the fall season.
Telling Burnt Orange and Terracotta Apart
Now that you know the differences between burnt orange and terracotta, here are some tips for telling them apart:
- Burnt orange is more vibrant and intense while terracotta is softer and more muted.
- Burnt orange may have a slightly more yellow/orange cast while terracotta leans red/brown.
- Look at their surroundings – terracotta often complements earth tones better than burnt orange.
- Check the hex code – burnt orange will be closer to #FF7F00 while terracotta aligns with #E2725B.
- Remember terracotta’s connection to the earthy clay pottery.
When uncertain, viewing color swatches side-by-side can help train your eye to distinguish the subtly different hues.
Conclusion
So in summary, while burnt orange and terracotta do share an orangey-red color family, they have some distinct differences:
- Burnt orange is brighter and more vibrant while terracotta is a muted, earthy hue.
- Burnt orange contains more yellow tones compared to terracotta’s higher red concentration.
- Burnt orange works for bold accents and graphics while terracotta suits natural, rustic aesthetics.
- Remembering terracotta’s clay origins can help distinguish it from the more fiery burnt orange.
So next time you come across these two similar shades of orange, you’ll know exactly how to tell burnt orange and terracotta apart.