As part of the thematic month “Colors” on the Gradnja portalNatalija Istomina, an architect from Russia who lives and works in Belgrade, introduces us to this technique.
Color Blocking, or color blocking, is a technique that has long gone beyond the limits of fashion and graphic design, becoming an indispensable part of interior solutions. This approach provides the designer freedom to work with color: from creating striking accents to zoning the space.
In the interior, Color Blocking can be manifested in abstract compositions with large painted surfacesas well as in geometric murals. However, it is not just a set of colors—it is the art of color block interactionwhich create dynamics and atmosphere in the space.
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What is the essence of Color Blocking?
The basic idea of Color Blocking is to create large color blocks which stand out against the background of other interior elements and interact with each other.
It can be bold, contrasting combinations or softer tones of one palette. However, the essence remains the same — the designer works with surfaces, adding structure and compositional complexity.
Problems that Color Blocking solves
Space zoning: This technique is perfect for dividing open spaces into functional zones, creating visual boundaries without the use of partitions.
Spatial illusions: Correctly selected color blocks can visually change the dimensions of a room: make it taller, longer or more intimate and pleasant.
Color Blocking helps emphasize unique architectural elements such as arches, niches or columns, making them focal points of the space.
Correcting planning deficiencies: Uneven walls or unpleasant corners can be “hidden” behind bright colors, drawing attention to the color accent.
Highlighting architectural forms: Color Blocking helps emphasize unique architectural elements such as arches, niches or columns, making them focal points of the space.
In public spaces such as cafes, shops and offices, this approach can become a visual seal of the brand, reflecting its unique style.
Complicating a simple interior: The introduction of color blocks into a minimalist interior gives it depth and finality, creating a sense of carefully thought out composition.
Highlighting or masking individual elements: This technique makes it possible to emphasize important pieces of furniture or, on the contrary, makes invisible those elements that you do not want to draw attention to.
A reflection of individuality: Color Blocking is an expressive tool that helps reveal the design intent and authenticity of a project.
Image creation: In public spaces such as cafes, shops and offices, this approach can become a visual seal of the brand, reflecting its unique style.
The basis of the project concept: Color Blocking can become the starting point for the development of the whole interior designuniting all the elements of the space into a single, harmonious whole.
How I use Color Blocking in my projects
U my projects I often apply this technique, especially in public spaces where it is important to attract the attention of visitors and convey mood through visual elements. For example, in a project “Baraban” hostel the main concept is based on suprematism.
Inspired rhythmicity and music of this aesthetic, we decided on Color Blocking, which is naturally emphasized the style of the project and connected it with the history of the Russian avant-garde movement.
The interior of the “Texture” store has become a whole organism in which continuity and connection of all elements can be felt.
Also, one of my favorite examples of using Color Blocking is a project for “Texture” storewhere we managed to connect two-dimensional and three-dimensional surfaces.
The graphics flow into the architectural elements, creating a unique art object. The interior has become a complete organism in which continuity and connection of all elements can be felt.
How to use Color Blocking correctly?
Purpose and function: Before you start working, it is important to determine what purpose you want to achieve using this technique. Are these zones that you want to emphasize or divert attention from certain parts? What emotions do you want to evoke in the people staying in this space?
Palette selection: It is important not only to choose a harmonious color palette, but also to consider lightness, saturation and color temperature. You don't always have to use only bright colors — complex tones and monochromatic combinations can be equally expressive.
Number of colors: It is recommended to choose from two to four basic colors in order to avoid overcrowding and maintain balance in the interior.
Materials and surfaces: Color Blocking is not just paint on the walls. Floors, ceilings, furniture, textiles and even tilescan become part of the color composition. Experiment with textures: a combination of glossy and matte surfaces adds depth and interest.
Proportions and composition: It is important to correctly calculate the proportions of each color block and view the entire space as one complete canvas. This will ensure the cohesion of the interior.
Color Blocking as the basis of the entire project
Color Blocking is not just a trend, but a powerful tool to create a unique interior. This technique enables solving many problemsfrom zoning and correcting planning defects to emphasizing architectural forms and expressing brand identity.
Color Blocking can become the basis of the entire project, creating a space that it impresses, inspires and reflects individuality.
