[IxDA Discuss] Expression Blend - Color Scheme

[Chris Bernard]

Dave (and others) summarizes the exact reason we took this approach with the tools. Largely inspired by interfaces you'd see in 3D software or advanced editing rigs.

One this I've noticed (anecdotally) at Microsoft is that developers seem to favor the more traditional color scheme and designers (at least those that come from a media background) seem to like the darker scheme. But you do have a choice.

If I was being really meticulous I'd stay you should set your artboard background (accessed via the tools menu using options) to 50% neutral gray (RGB values of 125 or so). It keeps your ability to judge colors more objective but there's see enough contrast to let you focus on your canvas.



Chris Bernard
Microsoft
User Experience Evangelist
chris.bernard at microsoft.com
312.925.4095



Blog: www.designthinkingdigest.com
Design: www.microsoft.com/design
Tools: www.microsoft.com/expression


-----Original Message-----
From: discuss-bounces at lists.interactiondesigners.com [mailto:discuss-bounces at lists.interactiondesigners.com] On Behalf Of David Malouf
Sent: Tuesday, April 17, 2007 10:14 AM
To: Cagwin, Virginia
Cc: IxDA Discuss
Subject: Re: [IxDA Discuss] Expression Blend - Color Scheme

Hi Virginia,

It's the "black turtle neck phenomena" ... ;)
Seriously though, first you should know there are 2 themes. One is
brighter, called Expression Light, and you can get to it under Tools >
Options > Workspace.

Personally I prefer the darker colors. I don't find "black" to be
equal to depressing, but then again, I'm writing this from a Soho loft
so maybe that is telling.

But more importantly when I switch between the white on black and the
black on white themes I find that the black on white is easier on my
eyes as there is less projected radiation. It also for a work
environment does a better job of allowing me to focus on my artboard
(canvas) with less strain. What is important is the content I'm
creatiing.

Anyway, this is one thing I've actually learned to enjoy over time.

-- dave


On 4/17/07, Cagwin, Virginia <Virginia.Cagwin at turner.com> wrote:
> I have enjoyed reading about everyone's comments on Blend. I have
> finally had the chance to actually use it the other day and see it's
> great potential. However, why has no one mentioned anything about its
> design (visual and interactive)?
>
> Is dark gray/black color scheme the "new" thing? I'm sorry but I didn't
> like it when Office 2007 beta used it and was thrilled when they added
> the silver scheme. I wouldn't consider being in my early 30's as old,
> but I find these depressing colors to be overwhelming to look at for a
> long period of time.
>
> Anyone else feel the same or care to tell me why these colors are
> starting to be used in recent interfaces?
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--
David Malouf
http://synapticburn.com/
http://ixda.org/
http://motorola.com/
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