What is a split complementary colour scheme? | Color scheme for Interior design

A Split Complementary Colour Scheme is a color scheme for interior design that is created by selecting one colour from the colour wheel and then using one colour from either side of its complementary colour. This creates a more pleasing colour scheme than a true complementary as it still has a strong visual contrast but not as profound. 

The split complementary colour scheme involves three colours. It is considered a good choice for beginners as it is rare to go wrong with it.

30 Examples of split complementary color scheme in Interiors - Sheet1
Split Complementary_©www.tigercolor.com
30 Examples of split complementary color scheme in Interiors - Sheet2
Split Complementary_©www.tigercolor.com

1. Color scheme for Interior design

30 Examples of split complementary color scheme in Interiors - Sheet3
Split Complementary_©Katarzyna Bialasiewicz

Against a neutral background, three split-complementary colours add joy to the room by making it more lively. Shades of orange, green and red are added into the decor through paintings, flowers and cushion covers.

2. 

30 Examples of split complementary color scheme in Interiors - Sheet4
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The living room is painted with bright shades of orange and blue while the third colour which is green is used in small quantities and shown through the cushions as well as with the help of plants. Another natural element is the fire which also brings colour into the room.

3.

30 Examples of split complementary color scheme in Interiors - Sheet5
Split Complementary_©www.decoholic.org

This room too has shades of orange, blue and green used. However, the manner in which the colour is used should be noted. While orange and blue is used for the furnishing, the green is brought into the room through more natural elements like plants.

4.

30 Examples of split complementary color scheme in Interiors - Sheet6
Split Complementary_©www.houzz.com

While orange and blue are the dominating colours in the room, you can notice specks of yellow in various parts or the room which are not highlighting any element but breaking the strong appeal of the orange and blue.

5. Color scheme for Interior design

30 Examples of split complementary color scheme in Interiors - Sheet7
Split Complementary_©www.onekindesign.com

One would not expect red-pink, green and yellow to go along with each other. The placement of these colours plays an important part for the room to look lively without contrasting each other out.

6.

30 Examples of split complementary color scheme in Interiors - Sheet8
Split Complementary_©design-milk.com

When you look at the picture you notice the strong use of green. To break this monotony, pink and orange are used which create a break in the line of vision and a modern look. 

7.

30 Examples of split complementary color scheme in Interiors - Sheet9
Split Complementary_©profeditor.wordpress.com

The red of the chair, the shelf and the adjacent table are what seeks attention while the green-yellow quietly complement the furniture. The little blue is added in the form of books, vases or other decor which could make it almost unnoticeable but does not.

8.

30 Examples of split complementary color scheme in Interiors - Sheet10
Split Complementary_©profeditor.wordpress.com

The room is set against a yellow wall. Thus, the blue and green against it stands out creating a perfect backdrop and mix of colours.

9.

30 Examples of split complementary color scheme in Interiors - Sheet11
Split Complementary_©www.idealhome.co.uk

The violet room is accentuated with the help of the green. The slight yellow-orange is brought out with the help of the lightning

10. Color scheme for Interior design

30 Examples of split complementary color scheme in Interiors - Sheet12
Split Complementary_©casaclaudia.abril.com.br

The orange, blue and green are perfectly arranged in such a way that no colour outshines the other. Home furnishing and natural elements are used for the arrangements.

 

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Author

Mithila’s curiosity is always keeping her on a lookout for new things to learn. She has a penchant for reading and holds interest in landscape, interiors and history. Along with these interests she’s constantly working on a way to inculcate her love for textiles in her practice.