Adjacent colors, also known as analogous colors, are groups of colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. They usually consist of 3-5 colors that are within close proximity on the color circle. Some common examples of adjacent color schemes are red, orange, and yellow or green, blue-green, and blue. Adjacent colors create color harmony in designs and are easy on the eyes. In this article, we will discuss what adjacent colors are, how they are used, and examples of adjacent color schemes.
What Are Adjacent Colors?
Adjacent colors, sometimes called analogous colors, are groups of colors that sit next to each other on the standard color wheel. For example, yellow, yellow-orange, and orange are adjacent colors, as are violet, blue-violet, and blue.
Adjacent color schemes consist of three to five colors that are connected on the color circle. They often contain one dominant hue, plus the colors on both sides of the dominant hue. The colors usually differ by only one or two hues, creating a subtle graded look.
How Adjacent Colors Are Used
Adjacent colors are commonly used together in designs to create harmonious and pleasing color combinations. They are easy on the eyes and work well when you want a natural, subtle look. Some ways adjacent colors are utilized include:
- Web design – Web designers often use adjacent colors for website backgrounds or themes to create cohesive palettes.
- Graphic design – Adjacent colors are favored in graphic design for flyers, logos, brochures and branding where harmony is key.
- Interior design – Interior decorators pick adjacent shades of paint, furnishings and decor to give spaces a smooth, natural look.
- Fashion – Clothing and accessories regularly feature adjacent hues to cultivate put-together, cohesive styles.
- Packaging – On product packaging, adjacent colors can make attractive, eye-catching combinations.
- Art – Painters blend analogous paints on the color wheel to generate visual interest.
The gradual transition between the hues in an adjacent color scheme creates a sense of harmony and order. The colors have enough contrast to be stimulating but not so much contrast as to clash. This makes them very versatile and usable in any industry where aesthetics and color coordination matter.
Examples of Adjacent Color Schemes
Here are some classic examples of adjacent color schemes:
Yellow, Yellow-Orange, Orange
This analogous scheme takes colors from the warm yellow and orange family. It’s bright and energetic. Brands with a youthful, fun image often utilize this combination.
Red, Red-Orange, Orange
Slightly amped up, this analogous trio adds bold red to the mix. It’s passionate and lively. Fast food chains and sports teams may leverage this scheme.
Orange, Red-Orange, Red
Here orange takes center stage, sandwiched between red and red-orange. This scheme conveys warmth, excitement and intensity.
Green, Blue-Green, Blue
On the cool end of the color wheel are these tranquil analogous colors. The green and blue tones are refreshing and relaxing. Spas, nature companies and health brands often use this combination.
Blue, Blue-Violet, Violet
This scheme shifts blue toward the violet side of the wheel. It feels sophisticated, spiritual and intuitive. It may be seen in beauty, mysticism and psychotherapy themes.
Violet, Red-Violet, Red
A bolder analogous triad, this scheme bridges warm and cool with violet as the link. It has an artsy, creative vibe. Fashion labels and art galleries may feature this combination.
Benefits of Using Adjacent Colors
Some key benefits of utilizing adjacent colors include:
- Harmony – The colors naturally look cohesive and harmonious.
- Subtle vibrancy – There is enough contrast for vibrancy without being jarring.
- Easy on the eyes – Adjacent colors are comfortable and gentle on the eyes.
- Natural gradient – The colors flow smoothly from one to the next.
- Versatility – Adjacent schemes work in most industries and settings.
- Interesting combinations – Colors adjacent on the wheel make unexpected combinations.
- Distinct palettes – Each palette has a unique aesthetic.
Tips for Using Adjacent Colors
Some tips for working with adjacent colors effectively:
- Choose 3-5 adjacent hues for your scheme. More than 5 colors may start to look unharmonious.
- Make one color dominant. Let one color stand out as the main color.
- Add contrast with neutrals. Shades of white, black and gray nicely complement analogous schemes.
- Use tints and shades. Vary the adjacent hues into lighter tints and darker shades.
- Add textures. Use different textures like glossy, matte, metallic, etc. for visual interest.
- Watch proportions. Use the colors judiciously in proper proportions for optimal results.
Conclusion
Adjacent colors, also called analogous colors, offer an easy way to create eye-pleasing, harmonious color combinations. These color schemes take hues next to each other on the color wheel to form subtle, graded palettes. They are versatile for all types of designs and deliver natural color harmony. Following basic principles, adjacent colors can be selected and applied effectively. Experiment with analogous triads and tetrads to take advantage of their cohesive beauty.