Lisavärve

Lisavärve is an Estonian term used to describe an accent or additional color chosen to highlight elements within a design. The word combines lisa, meaning add or extra, with värv, meaning color, reflecting its role as a supplementary hue in a palette.

In color theory, lisavärve is not a fixed hue. It is selected to stand out from the base palette while maintaining overall harmony. Designers often use higher saturation, increased brightness, or strong contrast to draw attention to specific details, such as headings, buttons, or icons, without overwhelming the composition.

Applications of lisavärve span digital and print media. In digital interfaces, it appears in call-to-action buttons, links, and key icons. In print, it may mark callouts, headings, borders, or decorative elements. In branding, the accent color helps create visual identity by emphasizing certain assets or packaging cues.

Guidelines for using lisavärve emphasize accessibility and readability. Sufficient color contrast with the surrounding elements is essential, and consideration should be given to color vision deficiencies. Used judiciously, lisavärve enhances focus and visual hierarchy without sacrificing balance or legibility. Related concepts include accent color and color contrast.