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Have you ever thought about how accessible color can be?
For people living with low vision, distinguishing shapes, objects, and pathways can be a daily challenge. Not everyone realizes that the color of assistive devices and environments can make a significant difference, improving independence, safety, and comfort.
Why color matters in the design of spaces and assistive products
- Improves visual perception: Strong contrasts and vivid colors help users identify tools and devices more quickly.
Concrete example: a red grab bar on a white background is much easier to notice than a standard glossy white one. - Enhances safety: Buttons, handles, and surfaces with high color contrast reduce the risk of accidents.
Concrete example: steps and ramps marked with contrasting colors (such as yellow or orange) can reduce falls by up to 30% in public environments, according to urban safety studies.
Practical guidelines
- The contrast principle:
The focus should not be on the color itself, but on the difference in luminance between surfaces, elements, and background. For example, a green door on a grey wall may be more visible than the same door on a light blue wall.
- Obstacle identification:
Colors should highlight elements that may represent obstacles or that need to be immediately recognized, such as handrails, steps, buttons, and handles. - Design for All approach:
The goal is not only to support people with low vision, but to improve the visual experience for everyone. Environments with clear color cues and well-designed contrasts are safer and more intuitive for all users.
An assistive product or space designed with careful attention to color does more than support daily activities: it makes life safer, easier, and more inclusive. Designing with color means designing for everyone.
For these reasons, Thermomat offers many of its collections in specific RAL colors such as red, blue, yellow, and green.
From our painted collection, to selected pieces from the more refined Soft series, all the way to our flagship antibacterial Nylon collection.
All our accessible design ranges can be customized in the same color options: from Vital to Elegance, up to Style collection.