Striking Color Palettes Show How Designers See Beloved Cities Around the World

Color Palettes Inspired by Cities

Have you ever noticed that certain cities just seem to radiate color? Though they may not be planned, there's no denying that many cities seem to exude particular colors, whether it's the neon lights of Tokyo or the signature yellow of New York's taxi cabs. For designers, who often take their color cues from nature, have also taken notice of the undeniable visual tones of certain cities around the world. There's something to be said for the color palettes generated by urban environments.

The Mill Shop, a UK-based purveyor of affordable curtains, went on a tour around the globe, picking out the colors that exemplify some of the world's most beloved cities. The results are a fascinating look at how the environment, local culture, and weather produce stunning color palettes that should inspire any designer.

It's also interesting to see how some cities seem to play by the rules of color theory, while others dream up their own schemes. Dusk in Dubai produces a balmy, muted palette of purple and rose with a green accent while Moscow's vibrant architecture creates a bold color palette of contrasting warm and cool colors. Taking cues from its seaside location, Dubrovnik's turquoise waters and terra cotta roofs make for a punchy color selection that screams beach.

Get inspiration for your new interior design project or graphic design job with these city-based color schemes.

Color Palette of a City

Color Palette of a City

Color Palettes Inspired by Cities

Color Palette of a City

Color Palettes Inspired by Cities

Color Palette of a City

Color Palettes Inspired by Cities

Color Palettes Inspired by Cities

Color Palette of a City

Color Palette of a City

Color Palettes Inspired by Cities

The Mill Shop: Website | Facebook

My Modern Met granted permission to use photos by The Mill Shop.

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Jessica Stewart

Jessica Stewart is a Contributing Writer and Digital Media Specialist for My Modern Met, as well as a curator and art historian. Since 2020, she is also one of the co-hosts of the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast. She earned her MA in Renaissance Studies from University College London and now lives in Rome, Italy. She cultivated expertise in street art which led to the purchase of her photographic archive by the Treccani Italian Encyclopedia in 2014. When she’s not spending time with her three dogs, she also manages the studio of a successful street artist. In 2013, she authored the book 'Street Art Stories Roma' and most recently contributed to 'Crossroads: A Glimpse Into the Life of Alice Pasquini'. You can follow her adventures online at @romephotoblog.
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