Excerpt from Exterior Decoration: A Treatise on the Artistic Use of Colors in the Ornamentation of Buildings, and a Series of Designs, Illustrating the Effects of Different Combinations of Colors in Connection With Various Styles of Architecture
Many of the suggestions concerning the choice of colors as regards their combination and contrast will apply equally well in the choice of colors according to the location of the structure on which they are to be employed, and its surroundings. What we wish to avoid, as in our selection of colors with regard to their fitness of association in the building, is anything that will render the effect of the painter’s work in contrast with the surround ings, either harshly prominent or lifelessly dull, and this is a general rule that will apply to every structure. Whether plain or of elaborate form. Ordinarily, as we before remarked, the dark, warm colors, dulled to pre vent obtrusiveness in tint and glaring effect, on account alike of their restful subdued appearance, and the readiness with which they may be made to harmonize with their surroundings, are to be preferred, and especially where, on account of the construction or location of a building, it is desired to give it an air of stability of warmth and comfort. A house occupying an elevated site, for instance, particularly if seen from below, with the cold tinted sky for a background, would always lack solidity in appearance, and even if sheltered by trees, would have a cheerless look when they lost their leaves, if painted in light colors. It should be remembered, too, that such a house would appear to recede from the vision according to the rule that makes dark or warm-colored objects look nearer, such as are light or cold colored more remote or smaller. A change to an agreeable combination of dark colors, relieved with a little warmth and brightness, would give a house so situated a more important air, a more substantial and far more comfortable aspect, and in place of being a distant and obtrusive white point in the landscape, the warmth and taste displayed in the coloring would bring it into increased and agreeable prominence. Even the plainest and most unpretentious dwelling so located, by judicious treatment could be rendered attractive.
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