Color Systems for Templates That Scale

A good color system makes a template feel consistent even when content changes. The goal is a palette that supports hierarchy, states, and emphasis without looking loud.

Start with a neutral base

Your neutrals do the heavy lifting.

• 5 to 7 neutral steps are enough.
• Use neutrals for backgrounds, borders, and text.
• Keep text contrast high for readability.

If your neutrals are strong, your accent can stay subtle.

Pick one accent with a job

A single accent color should guide attention, not decorate.

• Use it for primary actions and key links.
• Avoid using it for large background areas.
• If you need a second accent, keep it rare.

The accent is a signal, not wallpaper.

Define semantic tokens

Name colors by purpose, not by hue.

:root {
  --bg: #ffffff;
  --bg-muted: #f6f7f8;
  --text: #0b0f14;
  --text-muted: #667085;
  --border: #e4e7ec;
  --accent: #2563eb;
  --accent-muted: #dbeafe;
  --success: #16a34a;
  --warning: #f59e0b;
}

When colors are semantic, swapping a palette becomes easy.

Build surface depth with tints

Instead of multiple shadows, use subtle background tints.

• Card surface: 2 to 4 percent darker than page.
• Hover state: small shift in tint, not a new color.
• Sections: alternate a light tint for rhythm.

Depth should be felt, not noticed.

Test contrast early

Do a quick accessibility pass before you design every component.

• Body text on background
• Secondary text on muted background
• Buttons and links in all states

Fix contrast now to avoid redesign later.

Common mistakes

• Too many saturated colors competing for attention.
• Low contrast gray text on gray backgrounds.
• Buttons that blend into the surface.

Quick checklist

• Is there one clear accent?
• Do all neutrals feel in the same family?
• Are text and buttons readable at a glance?
• Can you swap the accent without redesigning layout?

A calm palette makes every component feel deliberate. Keep it simple, and your templates will scale without drift.