What is the 60-30-10 color rule?
Top 10 Guidelines for creating the Perfect Home Colour Scheme.
Creating a harmonious and visually appealing interior space can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to choosing the right colors. The 60-30-10 color rule is a fundamental principle in interior design that simplifies the process of selecting and balancing colors within a room. In this article, we will delve into the 60-30-10 color rule, explaining how it works and offering practical tips for applying it effectively in your interior design projects.
Understanding the 60-30-10 Colour Rule:
The 60-30-10 color rule is a guideline that helps interior designers and homeowners achieve balance and cohesion in their colour schemes. It breaks down the use of colours within a room as follows:
1. 60% Dominant Colour: This is the primary colour that forms the backdrop of your interior space. Typically, it covers the walls, large pieces of furniture, or flooring. The dominant colour sets the overall tone and mood of the room. It’s the canvas upon which you build your design.
2. 30% Secondary Colour: The secondary color complements the dominant color and adds depth and interest to the room. It is often used for upholstery, additional furniture pieces, or curtains. The secondary color should harmonize with the dominant color while introducing variety.
3. 10% Accent Color: The accent color is the most vibrant and attention-grabbing hue in your color scheme. It’s used sparingly to create focal points and visual interest. Accessories like throw pillows, artwork, vases, or small decorative items are ideal for showcasing the accent color.
Practical Tips for Applying the Rule:
1. Start with a Dominant Color: Choose a color that you love and want to see throughout your space. Consider neutral tones for a timeless and versatile backdrop, or opt for bolder colors to make a statement.
2. Balance with the Secondary Color: The secondary color should complement the dominant color while adding depth and variety. This can be achieved through furniture upholstery, rugs, or drapes. Ensure that these elements work harmoniously together.
3. Pop with the Accent Color: Use the accent color sparingly to draw attention to specific areas or objects in the room. It should contrast with the dominant and secondary colors to create visual interest. Bright throw pillows, artwork, or a statement piece of furniture are excellent choices.
4. Consider Texture and Pattern: In addition to colors, incorporate different textures and patterns to add dimension to your design. Textured fabrics, wallpapers, and patterned accessories can enhance the overall look.
5. Test Swatches: Before committing to a color scheme, test paint swatches and fabric samples in the actual lighting of the room. Colors can appear differently under various lighting conditions.
6. Personalise the Rule: While the 60-30-10 rule provides a helpful guideline, don’t be afraid to adapt it to your personal style and preferences. The rule is flexible and can be adjusted to create a unique and inviting space.
The 60-30-10 color rule simplifies the complex task of selecting and balancing colors in interior design. By allocating percentages to dominant, secondary, and accent colors, you can create a