Complementary Colours

On the HSV colour wheel opposite colours are complementary colours, that when mixed produce a shade of grey.In colour theory, two colours are called complementary if, when mixed in the proper proportion, they produce a neutral colour (grey, white, or black).
Because of the limitations imposed by the range of colours that were available throughout most of the history of art, many artists still use a traditional set of complementary pairs, including:


white and black

red and green

blue and orange

yellow and violet

The use of complementary colours is an important aspect of aesthetically pleasing art and graphic design. This also extends to other fields such as contrasting colours in logos and retail display. When placed next to each other, complements make each other appear brighter. On an artistic colour wheel, complementary colours are placed opposite one another.

Sometimes we see combinations of colours that really 'work' or 'pop' against each other.  It's likely you'll be seeing complementary colours in action.  I always get confused by the term 'complementary ' because I think it should mean matching or similar colours but in fact, it's the opposite;

We can also use these theories in garden or windowbox design if we want to create really eyecatching compositions.  This flower shop in Nogent reminded me of how vibrant red and green are together.  Why not try some complementary colours in your windowboxes (as a smal experiment) or in a corner of your garden?  Have a look around and see what catches your eye in gardens and green spaces, you might suddenly be finding complementary colours everywhere!