Colour Harmony as a Universal Phenomenon in Urban Design

Colour harmony is a powerful and universal phenomenon that has a profound impact on how we perceive and interact with our surroundings. At the 15th Congress of the International Colour Association, colour harmony was presented as a transcultural concept that has played an important role in urban design and architecture throughout history. This article explores what colour harmony is, why it matters and how it can be applied to enrich urban spaces and preserve their cultural identity.

What is Colour Harmony?

Colour harmony refers to the aesthetic balance and coherence between colours in a given context. It is the result of a combination of colours that together create a sense of balance, calm or visual appeal. Colour harmony can be influenced by various factors, such as:

• Hue: The specific hues of the colours.
• Lightness: The lightness or darkness of the colours.
• Chroma: The contrast and intensity of the colours.

Colour harmony is not only a subjective experience, but also a concept that can be analysed and applied using scientific methods, such as the CIELAB colour space. It plays a crucial role in how people perceive and interpret visual information, and it can be used to convey emotions, atmosphere and meaning.