The cheat code for choosing colours for UI/UX design
Pssst… still struggling to choose and place colours right, I gotcha
My journey into UI/UX design has been incredible. There’s been so much growth in the past year however there's been one aspect that I still find daunting and it's choosing colours. Colour selection is such an integral part of UI/UX design influencing user perception, emotions and interaction but the sheer number of colour pallets to choose from along with considerations such as accessibility, branding guidelines and aesthetic preferences can be overwhelming. Additionally, the process of experimenting with various colour combinations often consumes valuable time that could be spent on other aspects of the design process.
Despite the abundance of colour palette generators and tools available, designers (me included)still grapple with the task of finding the perfect hues that complement each other and align with the project’s objectives.
Introducing the Cheat Code:
Amidst the complexity of colour selection, I discovered a simple yet effective cheat code that can streamline the process for UI/UX designers especially when using 3 colour palettes. I discovered this technique when working on a design assignment from the Dev and Design BootCamp (Do your assignment guys).
The concept revolves around designing a small bar with text and a Call to Action (CTA) using just three distinct colours: one for the background, one for the CTA element, and one for the text. Let’s break down this approach further:
- Background Color: The background colour sets the tone for the entire design. It serves as the backdrop against which other elements stand out. When selecting the background colour, consider factors such as brand identity, user preferences, and the intended mood of the interface. Aim for a colour that enhances readability and visual hierarchy while complementing the overall aesthetic. If you have three colours for your design in mind, I’d suggest you use the colour closest to white for your background colour.
2. CTA Color: The Call to Action (CTA) is a critical element in UI/UX design, guiding users towards desired actions such as making a purchase, signing up, or navigating to another page. Choosing the right colour for the CTA button is crucial for grabbing users’ attention and encouraging interaction. Opt for a colour that contrasts with the background while maintaining harmony with the overall colour scheme. Bright, vibrant hues often perform well for CTAs, but ensure they align with brand guidelines and accessibility standards.
3. Text Color: The text colour plays a vital role in legibility and readability, ensuring that users can easily consume content without strain. When selecting the text colour, aim for a contrast level that facilitates effortless reading, especially for longer passages of text. While dark text on a light background is a common choice for readability, experiment with different colour combinations to find the optimal balance between aesthetics and usability.
Once you've placed three colours right, feel free to infuse more colours into your design.
Benefits:
This cheat code isn’t just about saving time (although that’s a nice perk). It’s about infusing your design process with a little more heart and a lot less headache. By simplifying colour selection, you free up mental space to focus on what really matters: creating delightful experiences for your users, and maintaining a consistent colour scheme across your design which promotes visual coherence and strengthens brand identity. By considering contrast and readability from the outset, designers can create interfaces that are more inclusive and accessible to all users.
So, the next time you find yourself drowning in a sea of colour choices, remember this cheat code. Let it be your guiding light, your beacon of hope. Because when you design with heart, anything is possible.
