The Cemix Color Compass online application adds a new dimension to the selection of façade colours

Choosing colours for a façade is often more challenging than one might initially think. It is difficult to visualise how a particular shade will look across an entire surface based on a small colour sample – this is where Cemix <a href="https://www.cemix.hu/hu/TudasTar/Homlokzati-megoldasok/Color Compass system, which utilises both a physical colour chart and an online application to aid informed decision-making.

The video below helps to explain the scientific principles behind the Color Compass colour system.

In the first part of our series first part of our series, we wrote about the scientific and professional background to the creation of the colour chart; now we will look at its structure and present the Color Compass online application.

The colours look different on the façade

It is well known that a colour seen on a small sample does not behave in the same way on a large surface. On a façade, shades often appear darker and more saturated: size, lighting conditions and shadows all influence the overall effect. The logic behind the Color Compass takes this phenomenon into account and organises the colours in such a way that, starting from the dominant shades, it is easier to navigate the subtle tones.

Practical experience shows that it is worth moving towards a lighter shade: if we choose a colour that is two shades lighter, in many cases we end up with the same character – just in a more balanced, harmonious form.

The role of pigments in long-lasting colours

The colour of a façade is not merely an aesthetic consideration: the chosen shade must be able to withstand the effects of the weather for many years. Pigments, which are responsible for the appearance of colours, play a key role in this. These tiny, insoluble particles absorb certain wavelengths of light and reflect others – this is how the perceived colour is created.

One of the advantages of the Color Compass system is that it treats shades consistently: the lighter version is truly a „relative” of the same colour, rather than a different shade.

Durability and resilience of façades

The colour of façades changes naturally over time, as they are constantly exposed to sunlight, rain and dirt. This makes the choice of the right pigments particularly important. The Cemix systems use durable, UV-resistant pigments that retain their colour over the long term.

Several factors play a decisive role in colour formation:

• lightfastness and weather resistance;
• compatibility with the binder;
• particle size and coverage;
• as well as the overall effect of the entire formulation.

The behaviour of dark shades deserves special attention: they absorb more heat, thus placing greater strain on the surface. In such cases, so-called „cool” pigments, which reduce heat build-up, may be advantageous.

A colour system you can hold in your hand

One of the most important tools of the Color Compass is the fan-shaped colour chart, which has been specifically designed for use on building façades. The system presents eight shades per page in a logical layout, making it easier for the eye to perceive the differences.

There can be as many as forty shades within a single colour family, providing a solid basis for making an informed choice – even when you have to choose between subtle shades.

An intuitive choice, free from distractions

The colour chart’s layout facilitates intuitive decision-making: the colours are arranged according to lightness and saturation, creating natural transitions. Lighter shades are displayed over a larger area for better visibility, whilst darker tones are presented in a more compact layout.

The aim of the layout is to ensure that nothing distracts the eye – the focus remains solely on the colours.

Practical design for everyday use

The colour chart has been specifically designed for practical use: it is easy to turn, fits comfortably in the hand, and can be used in two different ways. When opened to the left, the names and codes of the colours help you find your way around; when opened to the right, only the solid colour swatches are visible, providing uncluttered inspiration.

The longer swatches allow for the simultaneous comparison of multiple shades, which is particularly useful when making decisions about façade design.

Digital platform: information that is always up to date

The Color Compass goes beyond the physical colour chart. QR codes on the back of each shade lead to an online platform where detailed information is available: colour harmonies, technical specifications, reference photos and products available in that colour.

This combination ensures that the system always remains up to date, whilst allowing users to rely on both physical and digital tools at the same time.

The experience of colour in the online space

The online application offers further options: the selected shades can be viewed under different lighting conditions, compared and even saved. This allows users to test their choice in advance, before it appears on the façade.

With this system, you can create not just a single colour, but an entire visual concept.

Colours available nationwide

The shades of the Color Compass colour chart are available nationwide at Cemix colour-mixing outlets. Thanks to the durable mineral pigments, the selected colours are produced to the same high standard everywhere, whether they are light or more intense shades.

The system thus makes not only the selection process but also the implementation simpler and more predictable.