Introductory Concepts for Interior Design: Understanding Colour Schemes

Introductory Concepts for Interior Design: Understanding Colour Schemes


Colour can be used as the foundation for a comprehensive multi-room interior design theme, or alternatively it can be deployed to either masterfully accentuate or adroitly conceal other elements within a design scheme. The London interior design community is a circle of professionals who are widely regarded as some of the world's greatest thought leaders in colour design. In this article, I will draw on my experience working alongside some of these top interior designers and seeing first-hand their use of colour in everyday projects.


The first and simplest colour schemes are known as the "monochromatics." These are based on a single colour or hue. The interior designer will use this colour as the foundation, and then introduce more or less subtle deviations to bring out tints or create beautiful shadow effects. Many London Interior Design Consultancies specialise in so-called "tonal differences" to create visual interest and generate a distinctive and delightful "designer look" for any project. One of the most prominent trends in London interior design today involves the use of monochromatic colour schemes together with an accent colour that can articulate and better showcase the more subtle adjacent differences in hues and tones.


Colour wheels, swatches and comparison charts are an important component of the interior designer's toolbox. These can be used to create "related colour" schemes. The intention with this approach is to select hues that are adjacent on colour charts or swatch strips. These colour combinations can be used to develop a subtle and sophisticated effect that might be appropriate for high-end or luxury-focused interior design projects. In London, "related colour" schemes are again often used in conjunction with accent colours to appeal to the most demanding clientele.


"Contrasting colour schemes" rely on combinations of colours from opposite sides of the colour spectrum. This is one of the most challenging interior design styles, because it requires the interior designer to carefully avoid creating a "colour clash" effect while unifying hues that have very little in common. However, skilled interior design teams often use this approach to great effect in some of London's most upmarket modern or minimalist residences.


In summary, colour schemes are the foundation of the interior design profession. London's remarkable community of colour innovators is constantly coming up with new ideas and approaches to best showcase some of the world's greatest interiors.


Achromatics in Interior Design: The Hidden Complexity of No-Colour Approaches


The word "achromatic" originated in the late eighteenth century, via French but originally from two Greek words. In Greek, "a" means "without" while "kromatikos" derives from "kroma," meaning "colour." Accordingly, the meaning of "achromatic" is colourless, without colour, or colour free. In recent years, some of London's most famous interior designers have increasingly begun to focus on achromatic design. In this article, I will explain how this seemingly simple approach is actually highly complex. By referencing interviews and my own experience from collaborating with London's Top Interior Design professionals, I will aim to unpack the meaning of this branch of design theory and demonstrate how this challenging approach can lead to amazing results ... and delighted clients!


When most people think of interior design, they often imagine pretty colours, beautiful furniture combinations and enchanting fabrics. So when I tell my interior design students or interns that "no-colour" design is a thriving trend today, they often look at me in amazement. The intention with achromatic colour schemes is to create classy, classical and sometimes dramatic themes that can focus on just one room or extend throughout a flat or house. The only allowable colours are black, white, and any shade of grey that you can imagine. Some less experienced interior designers will tend to stay away from these types of assignment, since they realise that it is all too easy to inadvertently create effects that are overly strident, overpowering or shocking. However, in my experience, the achromatic interior design approach can be perfect for high-wealth London clients who really appreciate modern, abstract art and edgy, minimalist themes.


I am always honoured whenever anyone refers to me as a thought leader in the London interior design community. I was recently asked by a prominent interior design journalist and London socialite about my secrets to "making achromatic work." I replied that it was simple - one must just focus on the minimalist intent behind the interior design project at hand. Minimalism is really all about simple, massive forms and pronounced simplicity. Subtle shadings to accentuate the mystery of minimalist design can really evoke a powerful response for the fashionable London homeowner - and her dinner party guests! Many designers will think of black on white, but what about black on black? Even inexperienced interior design students can come up with a theme that incorporates white on black, but how about white on white? Or even grey on grey? Creativity is key, and with the limited but sophisticated  achromatic palette the interior designer's imagination is truly her greatest asset.