You might not realize it, but the colors you choose for your website are one of your biggest decisions. Color is an important consideration for a site builder because of their effects on both body and mind; numerous studies show that red can stimulate your senses (maybe that's why it's used so often in casinos). Blue usually has an opposite effect, calming and relaxing mind and body.
For many years, color theory has been studied, and those studies have shown that there are emotions and meanings tied to almost every color. These associations are far from definite, as experience, environment, and other factors can change how colors are perceived. Colors can evoke emotion at both ends of the spectrum; for instance, black can evoke strength and power but also grief and evil. Orange can mean either fun, or warning. When choosing colors for your site, here are some things to take into consideration:
- Colors your company already uses. If there is already a color scheme in place, those shades should be used in the design of your site to build brand awareness.
- The type of site being created will largely determine color choice. If you are building a site for a lcoal market, consider using neutral or earth tones such as browns, blues and greens. Corporate sites usually use white, blue and green (those colors are symbolic of power, trust and money).
- The audience you're trying to reach should also play a role. Younger audiences tend to gravitate toward red, orange and yellow, while older people prefer a more neutral palette.
It's essential that the colors you select blend together well. Choosing the wrong colors can make your site very hard to read, driving away your customers. Pay special attention to text color; you want it to stand out from the background. When coming up with color schemes, choose three base colors and two accent colors. Adjust hue, brightness and saturation accordingly.
There are many sources of ideas for website colors- take a walk, or look through a magazine. Web design galleries, scheme generators and websites are all good places to start. For most people, color plays an important role in life as they affect the way we feel and act. Choosing the wrong colors for a website can have a detrimental effect- take the time to choose shades that coordinate well, and that effectively convey your company's message and goal.