Go Away Green and Blending Blue: Colors That Make Objects Disappear

When you think of theme parks or meticulously designed environments, vibrant colors and stunning scenery might come to mind. But have you ever noticed how certain elements seem to disappear into the background? That’s the result of using colors that make less-attractive elements appear to fade away so you can focus on what matters most. When it comes to Disney parks, these colors are often referred to as "Go Away Green" and "Blending Blue."

The Art of Color Psychology 

The use of Go Away Green and Blending Blue isn't just about aesthetics — it's color psychology. Experts like John Hench¹, who is credited for developing these colors and others for Disney theme parks², use colors to influence perception and an overall experience. By strategically applying color, designers can effectively hide less attractive elements, keeping the focus on the main attractions or features.

In addition to painting theme parks, the same principles can be used within your home or yard.

What Color Is Go Away Green?

Go Away Green is used to make ground objects and structures less noticeable. The color is often a grayish-green that blends seamlessly with natural surroundings and landscaping. Whether it's a utility building, fence, or light fixture, when these elements are painted in Go Away Green, they can become nearly invisible to the casual observer.

Unlike bright, attention-grabbing colors, this dull green hue almost tricks the eye, allowing you to overlook the objects it covers. Designers and architects use shades of green to reduce visual clutter in carefully crafted environments, ensuring that nothing detracts from the overall experience.

Go Away Green is not a specific paint color you can buy at a store. Because foliage differs around the country, the shade of green that will detract attention can vary by location.

Depending on your location and landscaping, these Rust-Oleum Stops Rust and 2X Ultra Cover spray paint colors may deliver a Go Away Green effect:

• Stops Rust Satin Earthy Green
• 2X Ultra Cover Satin Moss Green
• 2X Ultra Cover Satin Leafy Green
• 2X Ultra Cover Satin Oregano
• 2X Ultra Cover Satin Eucalyptus
• 2X Ultra Cover Satin Eden
• 2X Ultra Cover Camouflage Flat Deep Forest Green
• 2X Ultra Cover Camouflage Flat Army Green

What Color is Blending Blue?

Blending Blue is a blue-gray shade that’s often applied to elements that contrast with the sky, such as the tops of buildings or tall structures. The goal is to make these objects blend into the sky, making them nearly invisible from a distance.

Blending Blue is particularly effective in open areas with expansive skies. By painting structures in this shade, designers ensure that nothing disrupts the scenic views or the carefully constructed atmosphere of the space.

As with Go Away Green, you can’t simply go to a store and purchase a paint color called Blending Blue. However, these Rust-Oleum 2X Ultra Color Spray Paint colors are a great start to help you achieve a Blending Blue effect: 

• 2X Ultra Cover Matte Perfect Gray 
• 2X Ultra Cover Satin French Blue 
• 2X Ultra Cover Satin Slate Blue 
• 2X Ultra Cover Satin Wildflower Blue 

How You Can Use Go Away Green and Blending Blue in Your Space

Inspired by Hench’s³ clever use of color? Here’s how you can apply similar principles around your home:

• Go Away Green: Select a shade of green to paint utility boxes, fences or other outdoor structures you want to downplay. It’s ideal for helping unsightly but necessary items blend into your landscape. 

• Blending Blue: If you have a structure that stands out against the sky, consider painting it a soft blue to make it less noticeable. This technique can help tall sheds or garage roofs fade into the background.

The Hidden Power of Go Away Green and Blending Blue 

Go Away Green and Blending Blue might be the best-kept secrets in the world of design. Whether you’re visiting a theme park or looking for ways to improve your own space, understanding the impact of strategically selected colors can give you a new appreciation for the world around you.

1. _{Hench, John. (October 2003). Designing Disney. Goodreads.com. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/360965.Designing_Disney}
2. _{Dowd, Kate. (March 31, 2024). How Disneyland hides eyesores in plain sight with ‘Go Away Green.’ SFGATE.com. https://www.sfgate.com/disneyland/article/how-disneyland-hides-go-away-green-18703425.php}
3. _{Solomon, Charles. (February 6, 2004). John Hench, 95; Disney Artist Helped Design Theme Parks; Los Angeles Times. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2004-feb-06-me-hench6-story.html}