Analogous color schemes are colors that are next to each other on the color wheel that go together well, creating serene and comfortable expressions. This combination of color would be considered a “down to earth” color scheme and what would be an analogous color scheme on the color wheel.
Keep in mind that the high contrast of complementary colors creates a vibrant look, but this color scheme is tricky to pull off and must be managed well to avoid clashing.Īre you emphasizing an environmental consciousness vibe along with your design? Use a combination of colors found in nature and are harmonious and pleasing to the eye. A complementary color scheme would the use of two colors opposite each other on the color wheel. If your expression in design is bold, you may want to consider a complementary color scheme, but use with caution. An example of a mysterious and provocative expression shown in this architecture design portfolio here. Finally, the shades category are colors mixed with black and reveal a mysterious, dark, estranged, provocative expression, as Tuite details in his explanation. The tints category are colors mixed with white to express a lighter, calm, overall peaceful feeling. The pures category are colors that are often incorporated into bright designs and express lively, cheerful, summery feelings. Tuite explains colors can fall into one of three categories: pures, tints, and shades. Next, this is where the psychology behind color in design comes into play in terms of your portfolio presentation.Īccording to Colm Tuite, a user experience designer from Dublin, there is real science behind picking colors to create a feeling or expression in thought. To select the best color schemes, ask yourself: What word(s) describe or emulate my expression of architectural design? For instance, inviting, colorful, contemporary, bold, lively, provocative, minimal, balanced, elegant, or any combination thereof?
Conversely, if your content material is very subdued, use a color scheme to help draw attention to your work. Generally, if your content material is bright in color, select a muted color palette, as part of the portfolio layout. The colors you choose should blend the content of your portfolio to tell a story, represent a playful expression, or feeling captured in your overall design style. You’ll also want to be sure to adhere to specific layout rules consistently throughout to give your portfolio cohesion. Aim for a clean expression, avoid clutter, and embrace white space should it flow well with your content. The best color schemes for an architectural portfolio mend way so that your portfolio’s contents are easy to absorb for the viewer. By choosing the best color schemes for your portfolio, you can be sure to display an accurate expression and feeling emulated through your work to potential employers. The portfolio helps firms to determine if you are the best match for the designs created or associated with the branding of the firm to which you are applying.Īs you plan the overall layout of your portfolio, be mindful of flow in visual appeal, as this is an essential element to accurate presentation of your work and talent. Additionally, the portfolio captures the essence of your design expertise in combination with your style or expression. Your portfolio is an opportunity to showcase your expertise acquired within the craft architectural scholars refer to as “scientific art” to potential employers. When applying for an architecture job, you need to make sure your portfolio matches your experience and talents claimed in your resume.