Why Are These Colours A Thing?
In every design, one of the key elements that communicate emotion, identity and ‘vibe’ is colour (Turner, 2016). For this blog, there was great consideration put into the colour palette that is showcased throughout. Ultimately, these colours: red, yellow, grey and blue (in addition to black and white) were selected to emulate the identity of BuzzFeed, however their meanings go further than just ‘copying’ the multi-platform, global, media company.
Red is a powerful, eye-catching colour that represents a variety of things. This particular red was not only selected because it is associated with BuzzFeed, but it represents passion and power (Turner, 2016). In addition this colour draws the eye in and is memorable. Colour psychology suggests red can stimulate energy and enthusiasm, both things about my career I wish to communicate (Colour Affects, 2008).
Yellow is the colour of the sun! It is warm, happy and friendly and I hope to communicate that across the whole design (Colour Affects, 2008). This particular yellow is used throughout the blog as an accent colour, not only is it in the header as the ‘buttons’ but as this particular yellow is bright and bold, it is used to highlight certain components of the blog.
Blue is a colour associated with soothing and calmness, however in with the rise of social media, this particular blue has been more associated with technology, being perfect as a second accent colour throughout the blog (Colour Affects, 2008). A complementary colour to red on the colour wheel, this blue adds a dash of a ‘cool colour’ that counteracts the bright warm reds and yellows.
Although monotone (and technically a shade rather than a colour), grey is used as a pleasant colour to soften the bright, bold colours and complement the design (Turner, 2016). This specific grey, like the other colours in the palette, is the same as what is used on the BuzzFeed website. The colour adds a contemporary feel that could have been lost without it, making the blog modern and stylish.
References
Colour Affects. (2008). Psychological Properties Of Colours. [online] Available at: http://www.colour-affects.co.uk/psychological-properties-of-colours [Accessed 19 Sep. 2016].
Turner, B. (2016). KJB103 WEEK 3 LECTURE Colour and photography, Website and blog design. Media Design and Layout, Queensland University of Technology