Inspiring Hues…Textures & Patterns Alter How You See a Color
When choosing fabrics and finishes for your home, business or retail store, it’s of value to understand that all materials have attributes – textures and pattern- that tweak the way color is perceived. For instance, a high gloss finish on a wall tends to appear brighter. Similar to wetting something with water, a high-gloss sheen enhances color. Gloss often enriches and produces more fullness and richness to a color. If you have a muted sheen, the color is flatter.
Sunbrella Leaf Textured Pattern on Left Cushion
Closeup of Sunbrella Leaf Textured Fabric
The texture of a surface can change its observed color due to tiny shadows at the microscopic level. Very textured fabrics such as velvets, suede’s, chenille and pile may modify color when viewed at different perspectives because these textures absorb light, culminating in darker or lighter areas of color.
Textured Fabric on Top of Cushion
Closeup View of Sunbrella Textured Fabric
Small-scale patterns on fabrics, rugs or walls can alter the predominant color of a room based on how the patterns are observed. When looked at up close, small scale, multicolored patterns isolate the colors so that each color is well defined. But when observed from afar, the colors become blended and the outcome may be a surprising and perhaps unattractive third color. In interior and exterior design it is valuable to contemplate small-scale multi colored patterns from a distance so that you have a precise image of the colors your space exudes.
Small Scale & Textured Sunbrella Fabric Design
Closeup Perspective of Small Scale & Textured Sunbrella Fabric Design
Color is a very important element in design and there are many variables that influence how we see color, including light, pattern, texture and the other colors that are nearby. So take the time to identify your favorites, try to think about how they make you feel and why you find yourself drawn to them. These will be the colors and feelings that you want to convey in your home, business or retail store.
Stay tuned for more inspiring hues….
