Color Theory
Analogous Colors
Analogous colors are neighbors on the color wheel—typically three to five adjacent hues like blue, blue-green, and green. These schemes create harmonious, cohesive palettes because the colors share undertones. Analogous combinations feel natural and peaceful, often seen in landscapes and nature.
Analogous schemes are among the easiest to execute successfully because the colors are inherently compatible. The challenge is avoiding monotony—interiors need variation in value (light to dark) and saturation (muted to vibrant) to create visual interest within the harmonious palette.
Key Characteristics
- ✓Adjacent colors on the wheel
- ✓Share common undertones
- ✓Naturally harmonious
- ✓Peaceful, cohesive feeling
- ✓Easy to execute successfully
- ✓Requires value variation
Types & Variations
Warm analogous (yellows, oranges, reds)
Cool analogous (blues, greens, purples)
Narrow analogous (2-3 colors)
Broad analogous (4-5 colors)
Works Well With These Styles
Placement & Usage Tips
Analogous schemes work beautifully in bedrooms and spaces where calm is desired. Include neutrals to ground the palette. Vary values—use light tints to dark shades—to prevent flatness.
💡 Pro Tip
For successful analogous interiors, push beyond the obvious middle values. A blue room needs navy, sky blue, AND everything between. Without this range, analogous schemes feel one-note and boring.