Five Points to Consider When Deciding on Website Colours

Colours can be powerful components of web design, and yet often are overlooked or merely seen as an additional aesthetic touch. Getting website colours right for your small business has a direct effect on how users engage with and respond to it. The careful selection of hues, shading, contrasts and lightness that perfectly complements the content presents visitors with an inviting visual experience. To reap the rewards of successful web design colour strategies requires understanding how various eye-catching tones can spur customers into action. Here are five points to consider when you’re deciding on the website colours, that you’re going to use.

1. Colour psychology plays a vital role in website design. Different colours evoke different emotions, and as such, businesses use colours strategically to create the desired mood among visitors. For example, blue represents trust and security, while red is associated with passion and excitement.

2. Consistency is key. When designing a website, it is essential to maintain a consistent colour palette throughout the site. This helps to establish a visual hierarchy, making it easier for visitors to navigate the site and find the information they need. Consistency also aids in brand recognition and reinforcement.

3. Contrast is critical. For text to be readable, it must have sufficient contrast from its background. There are several tools available online to assist in choosing colours with the right contrast ratios. When using contrasting colours, be mindful of accessibility guidelines, making sure your site is accessible to everyone.

4. Colour can influence how users interact with a website. Lighter colours tend to promote calmness, while vibrant colours incite action. Therefore, understanding the user’s goal and choosing colours that support that goal can significantly improve user engagement.

5. When designing a website, do not overuse bright colours, as it can create visual clutter and make it challenging for visitors to focus on crucial information. The golden rule for designers is to use colour sparingly and strategically, focusing on functional and aesthetic goals.

Something you might also need to consider is that your choice of colours may look totally different on one device compared with another – so checking on a few different ones is helpful.  About 18 months ago I bought a new laptop and when I logged onto some of my client’s websites ( and my own)  the colours looked totally different from how they looked on the old laptop.

A Final Thought on Website Colours

In conclusion, colour is an essential factor to consider when designing websites. Choosing the right website colours can determine whether a user stays on a site or leaves immediately. Professional web designers focus on creating visual designs that are aesthetically pleasing and functional while adhering to accessibility guidelines.

What colours did you choose for your website- tell me in the comment and leave a link so we can go check it out.