A novel front projection system is introduced for the purpose of material and color design. The system explores techniques for simulation of color on real objects lit by projectors. Choice of size, shape, and color of the target projection object is considered. Ambient lighting conditions are controlled, and a second projector is used as the light source. This permits the target projection object to be “cut out” from the light source, allowing for a realistically lit scene without “washing out” the simulated color. The surrounding environment is captured using high dynamic range environment maps in order to realistically simulate glossy materials. Metallic colors are emphasized, but the principles and conclusions also extend to the simulation of other materials.