​​​​​​​Optimum Ratio of Blue:Gray for Classic Space

[ThomusBean]

 

There are probably a number of forums or groups I could check for input to this question, and have already done so in a few. However I am hoping someone in this community may be able to point me in the right direction.

My question is simply this: What is the optimum ratio of Blue to Gray parts for a Classic Space set.

I think the method of doing this would be simple: gather data from a site like Rebrickable taking all the Classic Space sets from 1979 to 1987 and put the total part counts into a spreadsheet and then take the average to get the optimum ratio. this could be a guide to follow for new Neo Classic Space MOCs. I could do it but I don’t want to duplicate efforts if it has already been done.

[Johnny1360]

Interesting idea, never really thought of there being a distinct ratio. I do think there is also a certain style or look, aside from color to build Classic Space MOCS. If you don't find something or come up with something on your own, I would be interested in seeing it as well.

Edited January 6, 2022 by Johnny1360

[Lyichir]

I feel like a ratio like that wouldn't be particularly helpful since, among the Classic Space sets that used blue and gray in the first place (since several, especially later ones, often used different color schemes like white and trans-blue or gray and trans-green), they often tended to use them for different purposes. Blues were common for the "body" of spaceships or moon outposts, while grays tended to be used for baseplates (obviously) as well as wedges for wings, details like radar dishes and booster rockets, or the occasional small rover. As such, trying to calculate an "optimum" ratio likely wouldn't help you achieve the right feel anyway, since the amount of blue versus gray on an "authentic-looking" model would depend highly on what kinds of features your MOC included. A more subjective, holistic approach would likely serve you better, where instead of worrying as much about an overall guiding ratio you based your choices on consideration of how your colors are blocked and whether areas of the MOC could benefit from more or less of a particular color.

[Peppermint_M]

When I MOC something that is going to be Classic Space in blue and grey, I work on a simple rule: Crew Space is blue and function space is grey.

So, the cockpit, or the equipment storage or any sort of area that is for use by spacemen is in blue with the trans-yellow for windows. All wings, boosters, cargo, varied mechanicals are in grey. That includes support struts for a base, or any extra "greebles" like antenna, dishes and sensor arrays. 

Of course, some of the smaller vehicles were in grey entirely, so I personally work on the plan that if the vehicle has need for any sort of window or canopy/screen then it needs blue. However if it is not an enclosed cockpit then it looks good in all grey.

Though, this is all my own personal observations and aesthetic opinions. 

 

[Johnny1360]

Sounds like a good system, I will have to remember it. I kind of do that sort of coordinating on other building themes I do though.