Colour - Product, Surface, Effect

The consideration of colour and paint is a fundamental element of architecture, without which further refinements could hardly be possible. Both the material qualities of paints and coatings, as well as the subjective sensations of colour and tone are of great significance. The various influences of different light sources on the perception of colour are just as important as the two relevant principles of paint mixture; additive and subtractive. As coating materials, paints can be sub-divided by their type of pigment and type of binder. Selection of a paint or coating should only be made after the binder system has first been decided upon. Decorative finishing techniques demand particular attention within the study of paints and coatings; glazing and spatula techniques are considered here. Research into the science of colours is addressed, with particular reference to names, effects and values of colour. In order to achieve a particular desired result it is necessary to consider not only classical colour theory, and the psychology of colour (functional or aesthetic decisions) with its statements on the effect of colour, but also to take into account colour research in relation to trends, cycles and personal preferences. Decisions relating to colour can only be met in relation to the complete system of humanity; social interaction, spatial and physical environments.