Tetradic Colors

Tetradic or rectangular color schemes use four colors arranged in two complementary pairs on the color wheel. This creates the richest, most complex color combinations available, offering tremendous variety and potential for layered, sophisticated spaces. However, tetradic schemes are also the most challenging to balance successfully. The key to working with tetradic schemes is choosing one color to dominate while using the other three as supporting players. These schemes work best when colors are adjusted in saturation and value—rarely do four fully saturated colors create livable spaces. Tetradic schemes excel in eclectic interiors, gallery walls, and spaces where richness and complexity are design goals.