When thinking about your web design I believe just as critical as the style, layout and navigation is to choose the right color combination. There are many great sites that would be even more appealing if the color palette had been given more thought. Conversely some very simple designs are brought to a new level of visual appeal by having warm welcoming shades.

Our eyes by reacting to images (quite naturally) have a huge impact on our interest, and online this is more paramount than almost anywhere. Here is a great example of linking the colors to the product, in this case tea. As soon as you land on the page the entire aura of the page is conducive to wanting a nice warm cup of tea.

This example shows how you can ensure the image is the focus while the stunning combination of darker tones frames the rest of the site beautifully. How we train the eye is crucial in a design with impact. In the first few seconds on a page the purpose of the site must be clear and colour is key to achieving this.

Finally this site is quite minimal but the color combinations are muted just enough that the cartoonish aspect of the image sets a cooler tone. I especially like the repeated branding of the ‘grape green’ used throughout the site.

I find it interesting that (and yes I know it’s aimed at childen) that this famous homepage has such a dreadful mix of palettes. Yes louder colors are more appealing to kids (in theory) but just check the rollovers when you navigate. A shocker…call the design police.

We’re always happy to work with clients on choosing the right color palette combinations with our client and help ensure the branding via use of color and shade runs through every page of our design.

Thanks – back with more soon.

Tim at greenseedwebdesign.com