Why We Changed the Site's Color Palette — Making Reading a More Pleasant Experience

Posted on Apr 2, 2025

Newsletter about software engineering, team management, team building, books and lots of notes I take after reading/studying (mine or yours)… :D

If you’ve visited avelino.run recently, you may have noticed: the visual vibe is softer, calmer — and that’s completely intentional.

We redesigned the site’s color palette with one goal in mind: to make your reading experience more comfortable. And yes, there’s science behind it.

Why We Changed the Site's Color Palette — Making Reading a More Pleasant Experience

🧠 The Psychology of Color and Visual Fatigue

Studies in interface design and cognitive neuroscience show that pure white backgrounds and high-contrast elements can cause eye strain during extended reading sessions. A study published in the International Journal of Human-Computer Studies points out that soft, lightly tinted backgrounds can reduce visual stress and help readers stay focused for longer.

So we replaced the pure white background with #FAF9F6, a soft lavender tone that keeps the clarity of white while being easier on the eyes.

🎨 The New Color Palette

Our focus was to create a harmonious, accessible experience with a modern and welcoming vibe. Here's the palette:

  • Background: #FAF9F6 – soft lavender that diffuses light and reduces glare.
  • Main Text: #4A4A4A – dark gray for clean, high-contrast readability without harshness.
  • Links and Highlights: #E6E6FA – a soft lavender accent that complements the background.
  • Buttons/CTAs: #BA55D3 – a vibrant purple for elements that need to stand out.
  • Borders/Dividers: #E0E0E0 – light gray to organize content gently and subtly.

💡 Our Goal Is Simple

We want reading on this site to feel as effortless as a good conversation. No fatigue. No distraction. Just clarity, flow, and focus.


Reference: Bauerly, M., & Liu, Y. (2006). Computational modeling and experimental investigation of effects of compositional elements on interface and design aesthetics. International Journal of Human-Computer Studies, 64(8), 670–682.

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