White, Black, & Gray: Design Secrets You NEED to Know!

The Bauhaus movement, known for its stark functionality, understood precisely why white, black and gray are foundational elements. Color theory explains how these achromatic hues interact, influencing mood and perception in any space. Interior designers leverage the versatility of white, black, and gray palettes to create sophisticated and timeless interiors. Even the minimalist aesthetic championed by Marie Kondo utilizes these colors to promote tranquility and reduce visual clutter, showcasing that white black and gray are central to impactful design choices.

Embracing the Timeless Trio: White, Black, and Gray

White, black, and gray: these seemingly simple colors form the bedrock of countless designs, spanning diverse creative realms. From the sleek lines of a modern skyscraper to the minimalist elegance of a website interface, this trio continues to captivate and inspire.

Their enduring popularity stems from their inherent versatility. They are the ultimate chameleons, capable of adapting to any style, any mood, any purpose.

The Power of Neutrality

These colors possess a unique ability to recede into the background, allowing other elements to take center stage.

Or, conversely, they can command attention, creating bold statements that exude confidence and sophistication.

A Foundation for Sophistication and Modernity

White, black, and gray are not merely "safe" choices; they are powerful tools for crafting sophisticated, modern, and elegant aesthetics.

White evokes purity, cleanliness, and spaciousness.

Black speaks of power, mystery, and timelessness.

Gray, in its myriad shades, offers a calming neutrality, a bridge between the extremes.

Applications Across Design Disciplines

The influence of this monochromatic palette extends far beyond any single discipline:

• Interior Design: From minimalist apartments to grand, imposing living spaces, white, black, and gray provide a foundation for creating atmosphere and defining character.

• Graphic Design: Logos, websites, and marketing materials often leverage the stark contrast and clean lines achievable with these colors.

• Architecture: The interplay of light and shadow on white, black, and gray surfaces creates dramatic visual effects, shaping the perception of form and space.

• Fashion Design: High-fashion to streetwear outfits find inspiration in the monochromatic scheme.

Unveiling the Secrets: Mastering the Grayscale Spectrum

This blog embarks on a journey to unveil the design secrets to mastering the use of white, black, and gray.

We'll explore how to harness their potential for creating impactful designs that resonate with clarity, elegance, and timeless appeal. We’ll dive deep into creating impactful designs.

Color Theory and the Neutral Palette: The Foundations of Grayscale Design

Having celebrated the enduring appeal and versatility of white, black, and gray, let's now delve into the theoretical underpinnings that make this neutral palette so effective. Understanding the principles of color theory as they apply to these seemingly simple hues is crucial for harnessing their full potential.

Color Theory Basics for Neutrals

At its core, color theory explores how colors interact, mix, and evoke specific responses. While the traditional color wheel focuses on vibrant primaries and secondaries, neutral colors occupy a unique space. White, black, and gray exist outside this wheel, often considered the absence or combination of all colors.

The key to understanding their power lies in their relationship to saturation and value. Saturation refers to the intensity of a color, while value describes its lightness or darkness. Neutrals, by definition, have low saturation, allowing them to be easily modified in value to create a wide range of effects.

Defining the Neutral Color Palette

A neutral color palette extends beyond simply white, black, and gray. It encompasses the infinite shades, tints, and tones that can be derived from these base colors.

• Tints are created by adding white to a color, resulting in lighter, pastel-like variations.
• Shades are produced by adding black, creating darker, more intense versions.
• Tones are achieved by adding gray, resulting in muted, more complex variations.

This seemingly limited palette is, in reality, remarkably expansive, offering a surprising degree of nuance and versatility. Understanding these subtle differences and how they interact with each other is paramount to creating sophisticated and impactful designs.

The Psychological Impact of Neutrals

Each neutral color evokes distinct psychological associations, influencing how we perceive and respond to our environment. Mastering these associations can help designers create spaces and graphics that resonate on a deeper, more emotional level.

White: Purity, Peace and Simplicity

White is universally associated with purity, cleanliness, and innocence. It often evokes feelings of peace, tranquility, and spaciousness. In design, white can create a sense of openness and airiness, making spaces feel larger and more inviting. However, too much white can sometimes feel sterile or cold, requiring careful consideration of texture and accent colors.

Black: Power, Mystery and Elegance

Black, on the other hand, embodies power, mystery, and sophistication. It's often associated with elegance, formality, and a sense of timelessness. Black can create a dramatic and impactful visual statement, adding depth and contrast to a design. However, excessive use of black can feel oppressive or overwhelming, demanding a thoughtful approach to balance and lighting.

Gray: Balance, Neutrality and Calm

Gray occupies the middle ground, offering a sense of balance, neutrality, and calm. It can act as a sophisticated backdrop, allowing other colors to shine, or stand alone as a refined and understated design element. The psychological impact of gray depends heavily on its specific shade and tone. Lighter grays tend to feel more airy and serene, while darker grays evoke a sense of gravitas and sophistication. The use of gray can create a soothing, uncluttered and focused environment.

Unlocking Depth: The Power of a Monochromatic Color Scheme

Moving beyond the foundational principles of color theory and our understanding of the neutral palette, we now explore a potent application of these concepts: the monochromatic color scheme. Specifically, we'll delve into how a monochromatic approach using varying shades, tints, and tones of gray can be masterfully employed to create depth, visual interest, and a sophisticated aesthetic.

A monochromatic scheme, at its simplest, utilizes a single hue and its variations. In our case, that hue is gray. However, the power lies not in the limitation, but in the subtle nuances that can be achieved by manipulating value. The masterful use of value within a monochromatic grayscale palette can transform a seemingly flat design into a dynamic and engaging visual experience.

The Art of Value Manipulation

The success of a monochromatic gray design hinges on understanding and skillfully manipulating value. Value is the relative lightness or darkness of a color. By strategically deploying light grays against dark grays, one can create a sense of depth and dimension that is often lacking in designs that rely solely on contrasting colors.

Consider the principles of light and shadow. Light grays can simulate highlights, suggesting surfaces that are closer to the viewer or reflecting light. Dark grays, conversely, create shadows, implying depth and recession. This interplay of light and shadow is crucial for creating a realistic and engaging three-dimensional effect.

Texture and Pattern Amplification

A monochromatic palette also amplifies the impact of texture and pattern. Because the color dimension is intentionally restricted, the viewer's eye is naturally drawn to the subtle variations in surface quality.

Think of a living room rendered entirely in grays. A smooth, glossy concrete wall will reflect light differently than a heavily textured wool rug, even if they are similar shades of gray. This contrast in texture becomes far more pronounced and visually interesting than it might in a more colorful setting.

Similarly, intricate patterns, such as a herringbone tile floor or a damask wallpaper, gain prominence within a monochromatic scheme. The lack of competing colors allows the eye to fully appreciate the details and complexities of the pattern.

Examples of Monochromatic Mastery

To illustrate the effectiveness of monochromatic gray design, let's consider a few examples across different disciplines.

• Architecture: The works of architect John Pawson often feature monochromatic interiors in various shades of gray, with clean lines and minimalist furnishings. The focus is on the quality of light and the interplay of shadows across the surfaces, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere.

• Graphic Design: A website or brochure using a range of grays can convey a sense of sophistication and modernity. Layering different shades of gray for text, backgrounds, and graphic elements can create visual hierarchy and guide the viewer's eye through the content. Consider the subtle difference between a light gray background with darker gray text versus the opposite.

• Interior Design: A bedroom designed with varying shades of gray can evoke a sense of calm and tranquility. Using darker grays for the walls and lighter grays for the bedding and accessories can create a cozy and inviting space. The addition of subtle textures, such as a faux fur throw or a linen duvet cover, can further enhance the visual interest.

Avoiding Monotony: A Balancing Act

While the power of a monochromatic scheme is undeniable, it's crucial to avoid monotony. The key is subtlety and thoughtful variation. Use a wide range of shades, tints, and tones to create depth and visual interest.

In conclusion, a monochromatic color scheme based on varying shades, tints, and tones of gray is a powerful tool for creating depth, visual interest, and a sophisticated aesthetic. By understanding the principles of value manipulation and carefully considering texture and pattern, designers can harness the full potential of this seemingly simple, yet remarkably versatile, approach.

A monochromatic palette also amplifies the impact of texture and pattern. These elements, often subtle in colorful environments, become pronounced and captivating when rendered in grayscale, adding another layer of depth and intrigue to the design.

Contrast and Balance: Achieving Visual Harmony

The successful deployment of white, black, and gray hinges on more than just selecting the right shades. It demands a keen understanding of contrast and balance – two fundamental principles that, when skillfully applied, transform a potentially monotonous design into a visually compelling and harmonious composition.

Without deliberate contrast, even the most meticulously chosen grayscale palette can fall flat, lacking the visual dynamism needed to engage the viewer.

The Necessity of Contrast

Contrast, in its simplest form, is the difference in visual properties that makes an object (or its representation in an image) distinguishable from other objects and the background. In the realm of design, this translates to the degree of difference between light and dark elements.

A high-contrast design utilizes stark differences between white, black, and shades of gray, creating a bold and dramatic effect. Think of a stark white architectural facade juxtaposed against deep charcoal window frames.

A low-contrast design, conversely, employs subtle gradations of gray, resulting in a softer, more understated aesthetic. Imagine a room enveloped in varying tones of dove gray, creating a sense of calm and serenity.

The key is to determine the appropriate level of contrast based on the desired mood and the overall design objective.

Too little contrast can result in a bland and uninspired space.

Too much contrast can be jarring and overwhelming.

Achieving the right balance is crucial.

Texture, Pattern, and Material: Injecting Visual Interest

While strategic use of contrast is essential, it's not the only tool for combating monotony. Textures, patterns, and materials offer additional avenues for injecting visual interest into a white, black, and gray design.

Contrasting Textures: Juxtaposing smooth surfaces against rough ones, such as pairing a sleek black marble countertop with a textured concrete wall, adds tactile depth and complexity. Imagine the cool smoothness of polished concrete against the rough, natural grain of reclaimed wood.

Strategic Patterns: Introducing patterns, whether geometric or organic, can break up expanses of solid color and create focal points. Consider a subtle herringbone pattern in a gray tile floor or a bold graphic print on a black accent wall.

Material Selection: The choice of materials also plays a critical role. Matte finishes absorb light, creating a softer, more muted effect, while glossy finishes reflect light, adding a sense of drama and sophistication.

The interplay between wood, metal, glass, and fabric in varying shades of gray can elevate a design from simple to sublime.

Achieving Balance Through Strategic Placement

Balance, in design, refers to the equal distribution of visual weight. This doesn't necessarily mean perfect symmetry, but rather a sense of equilibrium that feels pleasing to the eye.

In a white, black, and gray scheme, balance can be achieved through the strategic placement of light and dark elements.

A predominantly white space, for example, can be grounded by carefully positioned black accents, such as a dark sofa or a collection of black and white framed artwork.

Conversely, a predominantly dark space can be lightened and balanced by the inclusion of white or light gray elements, such as sheer curtains or a strategically placed mirror.

Symmetrical balance creates a sense of formality and order, while asymmetrical balance is more dynamic and informal.

Regardless of the approach, careful consideration of visual weight is essential for creating a harmonious and visually appealing design.

Ultimately, mastering the art of contrast and balance is key to unlocking the full potential of white, black, and gray. By carefully manipulating these elements, designers can create spaces and visuals that are both timeless and impactful.

Setting the Atmosphere: Mood and Space Considerations

Beyond mere aesthetics, the strategic application of white, black, and gray profoundly impacts the mood and atmosphere of a space or design. These seemingly simple colors possess a remarkable ability to evoke specific emotions and influence our perception of the environment. Understanding this power is crucial for crafting truly impactful designs.

The Psychology of Grayscale: Mood and Emotion

White, often associated with purity, cleanliness, and spaciousness, can create a feeling of openness and tranquility. It reflects light, making spaces feel brighter and more airy.

Black, on the other hand, is often linked to sophistication, power, and mystery. While it can add a touch of drama and elegance, excessive use of black can feel oppressive or somber.

Gray, existing between these two extremes, offers a sense of neutrality, balance, and calm. Its versatility allows it to adapt to a wide range of styles and moods, acting as a bridge between stark contrasts.

The key to harnessing these colors lies in understanding their inherent psychological effects and using them intentionally to create the desired atmosphere.

Illuminating the Intention: The Role of Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in accentuating the mood created by a grayscale palette. The interplay between light and shadow can dramatically alter the perception of these colors, influencing the overall ambiance.

Bright white, when paired with ample natural or artificial light, amplifies the feeling of cleanliness and spaciousness. This combination is ideal for minimalist interiors, modern office spaces, or areas where a sense of airiness is desired.

Deep grays and blacks, combined with warmer, more subdued lighting, create a cozy and intimate ambiance. Think of a dimly lit lounge with charcoal gray walls, inviting relaxation and conversation.

Experimenting with different lighting temperatures and intensities can further enhance the desired effect, tailoring the space to its intended purpose.

Space and Proportion: Balancing Act

The perception of space is also greatly influenced by the use of white, black, and gray. White can make a small room feel larger and more open, while dark colors can make a large room feel more intimate and enclosed.

Using lighter shades on walls and ceilings and darker shades on the floor can create a sense of grounding and stability. Conversely, painting the ceiling a darker color can lower the perceived height of a room, making it feel cozier.

In smaller spaces, it's often best to lean towards lighter palettes to maximize the feeling of spaciousness. In larger spaces, a bolder approach with darker colors can create a more dramatic and impactful effect.

Ultimately, the key is to consider the proportions of the space and the desired mood when selecting the appropriate shades and tones. A careful balance between light and dark, space and color, is essential for creating a harmonious and visually appealing environment.

Influences: Minimalism, Modernism, Scandinavian, and Industrial Design

The enduring appeal of white, black, and gray in design is inextricably linked to several key design movements. These movements, each with its own distinct philosophy, have championed the use of these colors, shaping our perception of modern aesthetics. Let's explore the powerful influence of Minimalism, Modernism, Scandinavian Design, and Industrial Design.

Minimalism and the Monochromatic Ideal

Minimalism arguably has the most profound impact on the use of monochromatic color schemes. At its core, Minimalism is about reducing elements to their bare essentials. This translates directly to design, where simplicity, clean lines, and a restricted color palette become paramount.

The monochromatic approach, particularly utilizing shades of gray, aligns perfectly with this philosophy. By eliminating vibrant colors, the focus shifts to form, texture, and the interplay of light and shadow.

This allows for a heightened awareness of the subtle nuances within a space or design. The goal is to achieve maximum impact with minimal means. Think of a stark white art gallery, where the artwork takes center stage, or a minimalist website using various shades of gray to guide the user's eye.

Modernism: Embracing Functionality and Simplicity

Modernism, while broader than Minimalism, also significantly influenced the use of neutral colors. Emerging in the early 20th century, Modernism rejected ornamentation in favor of functionality and industrial materials.

White became a symbol of purity and modernity, often used to create open, airy spaces that emphasized clean lines. Black, frequently used for structural elements or accents, added a sense of sophistication and contrast.

Le Corbusier's architectural designs, for example, often featured white walls, large windows, and exposed concrete, embodying the Modernist aesthetic. The use of neutral colors allowed the architectural form to take precedence.

Scandinavian Design: Warmth and Functionality

Scandinavian design, originating in the Nordic countries, prioritizes functionality, simplicity, and a connection to nature. While often incorporating natural wood tones and muted colors, white, black, and gray play a crucial role in creating bright and inviting spaces, especially crucial in regions with long, dark winters.

White is used extensively to maximize natural light, while gray acts as a calming backdrop. Black is often used sparingly, for example in metal elements of chairs, furniture or for graphic accents, to add contrast and visual interest.

Ikea showrooms provide a perfect demonstration of Scandinavian design principles. The use of white walls, paired with natural wood furniture and pops of muted color, creates a sense of warmth and comfort, even in a mass-produced setting.

Industrial Design: Celebrating Raw Materials

Industrial design, with its focus on raw materials and exposed structural elements, also embraces the grayscale palette. Gray, in the form of concrete, steel, and brick, becomes a defining characteristic. Black is used to highlight mechanical components or create a sense of urban grit.

White can also feature in this to brighten or soften an industrial space. The rawness of the material is often emphasized.

Lofts and converted warehouses are prime examples of Industrial design. Exposed brick walls painted gray, concrete floors, and black metal fixtures create a sense of authenticity and urban chic.

Adding Personality: Accents, Textures, and Finishes

While a palette of white, black, and gray exudes sophistication, it can, at times, feel stark or impersonal. The key to elevating a grayscale design from simple to stunning lies in strategically introducing accents, playing with textures, and carefully selecting finishes that inject personality and visual intrigue.

The Power of Accent Colors

The beauty of a neutral backdrop is its ability to amplify the impact of carefully chosen accent colors. Think of white, black, and gray as a canvas awaiting a vibrant stroke of individuality.

• Strategic Placement: The key is restraint. Overdoing accent colors can disrupt the serene balance. Instead, focus on using them strategically in focal points.
• Complementary Hues: Select accent colors that complement the undertones of your grays. Cool grays pair well with blues and greens, while warmer grays can be enlivened with yellows, oranges, or reds.
• The 60-30-10 Rule: A helpful guideline is the 60-30-10 rule. 60% of the space should be the dominant neutral (e.g., gray walls), 30% a secondary neutral (e.g., white trim and furniture), and 10% the accent color (e.g., a vibrant piece of art or decorative pillows).
• Examples: A living room dominated by gray tones could be revitalized with emerald green cushions and a throw, or a black and white kitchen could pop with a vibrant red appliance or backsplash.

Textural Depth: Beyond Color

Texture plays a crucial role in adding depth and visual interest to a monochromatic scheme. Without varying textures, a grayscale space can feel flat and uninviting.

• Layering Textures: Combine smooth and rough textures to create a tactile experience. Imagine a plush velvet sofa against a concrete wall, or a woven rug on a polished concrete floor.
• Natural Elements: Incorporate natural elements like wood, stone, or linen to introduce warmth and organic textures.
• Contrasting Materials: Juxtapose contrasting materials such as glass and metal, or leather and wool, to create dynamic tension.
• Examples: Consider a bedroom with a gray linen duvet, a chunky knit throw, and a smooth wooden headboard. The combination of these textures adds richness and comfort.

Finish Matters: Matte vs. Glossy, and Beyond

The choice of finish can dramatically alter the perceived look and feel of a space. Matte finishes absorb light, creating a soft, muted effect, while glossy finishes reflect light, adding a touch of glamour and creating the illusion of more space.

• Matte Finishes: Ideal for creating a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. Matte paint hides imperfections and provides a velvety texture.
• Glossy Finishes: Perfect for highlighting architectural details or adding a touch of drama. Use glossy paint sparingly, as it can be overwhelming in large doses.
• Metal Finishes: Consider the impact of metal finishes. Brushed nickel offers a subtle, contemporary look, while polished brass adds warmth and elegance.
• Wood Finishes: Wood can be stained or painted to complement the overall color scheme. Natural wood tones add warmth and character, while painted wood can create a more modern look.
• Examples: A bathroom with matte gray walls and glossy white tiles creates a balanced and sophisticated look. Alternatively, a kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a matte black countertop offers a sleek, modern aesthetic.

While a palette of white, black, and gray exudes sophistication, it can, at times, feel stark or impersonal. The key to elevating a grayscale design from simple to stunning lies in strategically introducing accents, playing with textures, and carefully selecting finishes that inject personality and visual intrigue. Without varying textures, a grayscale space can feel flat. Now, let's dive into some expert advice on navigating the seemingly endless shades and tones available within this essential palette.

Expert Palette Advice: Navigating Shades and Tones

Choosing the right white, black, and gray shades can feel overwhelming, even for seasoned designers. Each color boasts a spectrum of undertones and variations, significantly impacting the overall mood and aesthetic of your space or design. To simplify the process, leaning on the expertise of established color authorities like Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, and Pantone is invaluable.

Finding Inspiration with Leading Color Brands

These brands offer not just a vast array of paint colors, but also curated collections, trend forecasts, and online tools to help you visualize and coordinate your palette.

Sherwin-Williams, for example, provides detailed color descriptions, including Light Reflectance Value (LRV), which is crucial for understanding how a color will appear under different lighting conditions. Benjamin Moore is renowned for its sophisticated color names and its commitment to quality pigments, ensuring accurate and consistent color representation. And Pantone, the global authority on color, offers a universal language for color communication, ensuring that your chosen shades translate accurately across different mediums.

Decoding Undertones

One of the biggest challenges in selecting white, black, and gray is identifying their undertones. Undertones are the subtle hues that lie beneath the surface color, influencing how it interacts with other colors in the room. Whites can have cool undertones (blue, green, or violet) or warm undertones (yellow, pink, or brown). The same applies to grays, with some leaning towards blue-gray or green-gray and others towards warmer beige-gray or brown-gray tones. Blacks, while seemingly straightforward, can also vary in depth and intensity, with some having a softer, more charcoal-like appearance.

To identify undertones, compare your chosen shade to a pure white sample under natural light. This will help reveal any underlying hues. Consider these undertones when selecting accent colors and other elements in your design to create a cohesive and harmonious look.

Considering Lighting Conditions

Lighting plays a crucial role in how colors appear. Natural light tends to enhance cool undertones, while artificial light can amplify warm undertones.

Before committing to a specific shade, test it in your space under various lighting conditions (daylight, lamplight, and overhead lighting). Paint large swatches on different walls and observe how the color changes throughout the day. This will help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure that you are happy with your color choice regardless of the time of day.

Aligning with Personal Preferences

Ultimately, the best white, black, and gray shades are those that resonate with your personal preferences and style. Consider the overall mood you want to create. Do you prefer a bright and airy space with crisp whites and cool grays, or a more cozy and intimate atmosphere with warmer, deeper tones?

Don't be afraid to experiment and trust your instincts. Collect paint chips, create mood boards, and test different combinations until you find a palette that feels authentic and inspiring. Remember, the goal is to create a space that reflects your unique personality and style.

While a palette of white, black, and gray exudes sophistication, it can, at times, feel stark or impersonal. The key to elevating a grayscale design from simple to stunning lies in strategically introducing accents, playing with textures, and carefully selecting finishes that inject personality and visual intrigue. Without varying textures, a grayscale space can feel flat. Now, let's dive into some expert advice on navigating the seemingly endless shades and tones available within this essential palette.

Inspiration Gallery: Real-World Examples and Case Studies

The principles of effective grayscale design truly shine when viewed through the lens of real-world applications. Let’s explore how white, black, and gray are masterfully employed across interiors, graphics, and architecture. We will dissect the design choices behind these projects.

Interior Design: The Serene Loft

Consider a modern loft apartment bathed in natural light. The primary color is a soft, off-white on the walls – perhaps Benjamin Moore's "White Dove." This immediately creates a sense of airiness and spaciousness.

Against this backdrop, a dark charcoal gray sofa anchors the living area. The sofa is accented with cushions in varying shades of gray linen and a single black velvet pillow for depth.

The strategic use of texture is paramount here. A woven wool rug in a lighter gray adds warmth and visual interest underfoot. A sleek, black metal coffee table provides a sharp contrast, reflecting light and grounding the space.

Natural wood elements, like a light oak side table and shelving, inject warmth and prevent the scheme from feeling too sterile. The key is balance: The wood tones complement the gray scale without overpowering it.

Graphic Design: Minimalist Branding

In graphic design, a black and white logo can be incredibly powerful. Think of Chanel's iconic interlocking Cs or the stark simplicity of the Apple logo.

These logos rely on clean lines, strong typography, and negative space to communicate their brand identity.

A grayscale color palette in branding evokes feelings of sophistication, reliability, and timelessness. Consider a business card design employing a stark white background, crisp black text in a modern sans-serif font, and a subtle gray watermark of the company's logo. This design is both elegant and professional.

To elevate a grayscale graphic design, experiment with textures. For example, using a subtle paper texture or a foil finish on a business card can add a tactile dimension. This elevates the design from simple to luxurious.

Architectural Design: The Modernist Villa

Architectural design offers unique opportunities to explore the potential of white, black, and gray. Imagine a modernist villa with clean lines and expansive windows. The exterior is clad in stark white stucco, reflecting sunlight and creating a sense of purity.

Large panes of black-framed glass offer panoramic views and create a striking contrast against the white walls. This juxtaposition highlights the architectural form and establishes a visual hierarchy.

Inside, polished concrete floors in a light gray provide a neutral foundation. A black steel staircase becomes a sculptural element, adding both functionality and visual drama.

The success of this design lies in its restraint and the careful consideration of light and shadow. The play of light across the white surfaces creates depth and dimension, while the black elements provide a sense of grounding and stability.

Adding in carefully placed landscaping featuring greenery softens the harsh lines of the architecture and introduces a natural element into the monochromatic scheme.