Color Theory for Architecture Maps: Choosing the Right Palette

Why Color Matters in Site Analysis

The colors you choose for your site analysis maps affect how your work is perceived. The right palette can make your analysis clearer, more professional, and more memorable.

Color Psychology in Architecture Presentations

Black and White

Feeling: Professional, timeless, analytical

Best for: Academic presentations, publications, technical analysis

ArchiKEK themes: Figure Ground, Minimal Light

Blue Tones

Feeling: Technical, trustworthy, precise

Best for: Engineering-focused presentations, technical documentation

ArchiKEK themes: Blueprint, Technical

Warm Tones (Orange, Amber)

Feeling: Inviting, creative, energetic

Best for: Client presentations, portfolio pieces

ArchiKEK themes: Warm Sunset, Desert

Earth Tones

Feeling: Natural, grounded, contextual

Best for: Landscape-focused projects, environmental analysis

ArchiKEK themes: Satellite, Terrain

Dark Themes

Feeling: Modern, sophisticated, dramatic

Best for: Digital presentations, evening reviews

ArchiKEK themes: Midnight, Neon

Contrast and Readability

High Contrast

Black on white (or vice versa) provides maximum readability. Use for:

• Complex urban areas with many buildings
• Maps that will be printed
• Presentations in bright rooms

Low Contrast

Subtle color differences create atmosphere. Use for:

• Background context maps
• Mood boards and concept presentations
• Digital-only presentations

Color for Information Hierarchy

Use color strategically to guide the eye:

Primary Elements (Buildings)

Should be the most visually prominent. Use solid, saturated colors.

Secondary Elements (Roads)

Should be visible but not dominant. Use medium values.

Tertiary Elements (Water, Green)

Provide context without competing. Use lighter values.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Too Many Colors

Stick to 3-5 colors maximum. More creates visual chaos.

Fighting Colors

Avoid colors that vibrate when placed together (like red and cyan).

Ignoring Print

What looks good on screen may not print well. Test your outputs.

Forgetting Context

Your map doesn't exist in isolation. Consider the overall presentation.

Matching Your Design Aesthetic

Your site analysis should feel cohesive with your design presentation:

• Minimalist design? Use Minimal Light/Dark themes
• Bold, expressive design? Try Neon or Warm Sunset
• Technical approach? Blueprint or Technical themes
• Contextual/sensitive design? Satellite or Terrain themes

Experiment with Themes

ArchiKEK's preview feature lets you try different themes instantly. Don't settle for the first option—explore what works best for your specific project and presentation context.

Try Different Themes →