Week 7 Page 13: Using Neutral Colors

Black, Gray and White

Often designers tend to overlook the usefulness of the neutral colors black, gray and white (off-whites). These colors harmonize with other hues and are an excellent way to offset the visual effects of two strong colors. Sometimes selective use of color in a mainly neutral palette creates the most effective designs.

This web site uses only black, white and grey (the new design seems to include a little more color now...).

• http://www.bloominteriordesign.com.au/ Links to an external site. (Archived version... the new site has color photos!)

The following example relies on grey, black and white with splashes of color (to make the cars stand out). Notice how the colors (e.g. red) are very striking when combined with the monotone colors:

• http://www.miniusa.com Links to an external site.

Designing with neutrals

Neutral colors can also create sophisticated color designs without the addition of color (or with very small amounts). For example, black can be used for edgier designs or in situations where other elements on the page need to stand out (photographs for example). The use of black with grey tints and white type can be visually interesting.