Getting started with decorating your home can feel like a daunting task, especially when you’re not sure where to begin. But don’t worry—the 60-30-10 rule in interior design could be just the guiding light you need. This simple yet effective rule helps you balance colors in a space, making it feel cohesive and well-designed without much effort.
Of course, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the design advice out there. But here’s the thing: that confusion might actually be a good thing.
Why?
Because it means your space can be uniquely yours. Imagine how dull it would be if every home was a cookie-cutter replica of the next, with everyone following the same set of rules, handed down by self-proclaimed design experts. Instead, by exploring different ideas and adding your personal touch, you create a space that’s not just stylish but also a true reflection of who you are.
So, embrace the process!
The 60-30-10 rule is a great starting point, but don’t be afraid to mix things up and break a few rules along the way. After all, your home should be as unique and vibrant as you are.
What Is 60-30-10 Color Rule?
The 60-30-10 rule is a fundamental principle in color design, providing a guideline for creating a harmonious and balanced color palette. By allocating 60% of the room’s color to the dominant hue, 30% to the secondary color, and 10% to the accent color, this rule ensures a visually appealing and cohesive color scheme.
Effective application of the 60-30-10 rule can greatly enhance the aesthetic of a room. For instance, a calming blue color (60%) can be complemented by a crisp white (30%) and accented with a bold coral (10%). By adhering to this principle, designers and homeowners can avoid color overload and create a balanced, harmonious atmosphere. The 60-30-10 rule is a valuable tool for achieving a stunning color palette.
Color Wheel Basics – Color Theory 101
A decorating color wheel chart is a valuable tool to help you determine which colors complement each other and which ones clash.
Choosing the right colors for 60-30-10 rule can be a daunting task. But fear not! With the help of a color wheel and the 60-30-10 rule, you can create a cohesive and stunning color palette that reflects your personal style.
By using the color wheel, you can
- Identify harmonious color combinations
- Choose colors that are opposite each other on the wheel for a complementary color scheme
- Select colors that are next to each other on the wheel for an analogous color scheme
How To Choose The Right Colors For 60-30-10 Rule?
Colors can totally make or break the vibe of a room, so it’s worth getting it right. The right colors for 60-30-10 rule lies in the basics of dominant, secondary, and accent colors which help you create a palette that’s totally you.
Dominant Color
The dominant color, comprising 60% of the room’s color, sets the overall tone and atmosphere. It’s typically used for walls, furniture, and flooring. Choosing a dominant color that reflects your personal style and complements the room’s purpose is crucial. Consider the natural light, room size, and architectural features when selecting your dominant color.
Secondary Color
The secondary color, making up 30% of the room’s color, supports the dominant color and adds depth. It’s often used for accents, rugs, and furniture upholstery. The secondary color should complement the dominant color without overpowering it. Consider the 60-30-10 rule when selecting your secondary color to ensure a harmonious balance.
Accent Color
The accent color, accounting for 10% of the room’s color, adds a pop of personality and creates visual interest. It’s typically used for decorative items, accessories, and statement pieces. The accent color should contrast with the dominant and secondary colors to create a cohesive look. By applying the 60-30-10 rule, you’ll create a stunning 60-30-10 color palette that enhances your room’s aesthetic.
How To Apply the 60-30-10 Rule?
The 60-30-10 rule is a simple yet effective way to balance your color palette. Here’s how it works:
| Color | Percentage | Description |
| Dominant Color | 60% | Walls, furniture, flooring |
| Secondary Color | 30% | Accents, rugs, upholstery |
| Accent Color | 10% | Decorative items, accessories |
Example for Color Scheme
Here are a few examples of how you can apply the 60-30-10 rule in your interior design:
- Room 1: Soft gray walls (60%), taupe furniture and accents (30%), and pops of coral (10%)
- Room 2: Navy blue accent wall (60%), light gray furniture (30%), and yellow accents (10%)
- Room 3: Beige walls and sofa (60%), brown furniture and accents (30%), and pops of green (10%)
By following the 60-30-10 rule, you can create a balanced and harmonious color palette that enhances your space. Remember, the key is to balance your colors correctly, and the 60-30-10 rule is a great starting point.
So, go ahead and give it a try!
How to use the Color Wheel and the 60-30-10 rule?
When designing your space, selecting the perfect color palette can be overwhelming. Fortunately, the color wheel and 60-30-10 rule offer a simple solution. See the live example of four color schemes and how to we have applied the 60-30-10 rule for a balanced look.
Monochromatic Magic
Image Source: Tile Club
Create a cohesive look by using different shades of a single color. Neutral colors like gray, cream, or white work well for this approach.
Key Benefits:
- Creates a sense of calm and serenity
- Easy to implement and maintain
Tips:
- Use lighter shades for walls and darker shades for furniture
- Add texture with rugs and throw pillows
Complimentary Contrast
Image Source: Better Homes & Gardens
Choose two colors opposite each other on the color wheel, ensuring a balance of warm and cool tones. Designate one color as secondary and the other as an accent.
Key Benefits:
- Creates a bold and striking visual effect
- Stimulates creativity and energy
Tips:
- Balance warm and cool colors to avoid visual overload
- Use the secondary color for furniture and accents
Analogous Harmony
Image Source: MyDomaine
Select three adjacent colors on the color wheel, with the middle color as the dominant hue. This creates a smooth transition between colors.
Key Benefits:
- Creates a soothing and natural atmosphere
- Easy to implement and maintain
Tips:
- Use the dominant color for walls and furniture
- Add depth with accent colors
Split Complimentary Balance
Image Source: Idei.club
Start with a dominant color, then choose its complementary color and add a third color adjacent to the complementary color. This adds depth and interest to your palette.
Key Benefits:
- Creates a balanced and visually appealing effect
- Works well with bold patterns and statement pieces
Tips:
- Use the dominant color for walls and furniture
- Add accent colors with rugs, throw pillows, and decorative items
60-30-10 Furniture and Decoration Rule
The 60-30-10 rule is a fundamental principle in interior design that provides a straightforward yet effective approach to creating harmonious and visually appealing spaces. This time-tested guideline, also referred to as the 60 30 10 color rule, offers a balanced framework for distributing colors, textures, and design elements throughout a room, ensuring a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing result.
The 60% in 60-30-10 Rule
The dominant color or element in your design scheme should account for approximately 60% of the room’s visual space. This primary component serves as the foundation of your design, setting the overall tone and atmosphere of the area. Typically, this 60% is represented by a neutral or subdued color palette, which is applied to larger surfaces such as walls, expansive furniture pieces like sofas or beds, or flooring.
The purpose of this dominant element is to create a cohesive backdrop that unifies the entire space. It provides a sense of continuity and serves as a canvas upon which you can layer other design elements. By choosing a more subtle or neutral tone for this majority portion, you allow flexibility in your design and create a timeless base that can easily adapt to changing trends or seasonal decor updates.
The 30% in 60-30-10 Rule
The secondary color or element, comprising about 30% of the room’s visual aspect, plays a crucial role in adding depth and interest to your space. This component supports and complements the dominant 60% while introducing variety to prevent the design from feeling monotonous.
The 30% portion can be slightly bolder or more vibrant than the primary color, offering an opportunity to inject personality into the room. It’s often incorporated through medium-sized furniture pieces, window treatments, area rugs, or accent walls. This secondary element helps to break up the expansiveness of the dominant color, creating visual rhythm and adding layers of interest to the overall design.
The 10% in 60-30-10 Rule
The final 10% of the 60 30 10 rule is reserved for accent colors or statement pieces. This smallest portion plays a disproportionately large role in defining the character of your space. It’s where you can be daring with your choices, introducing bold colors, unique textures, or eye-catching patterns.
These accents are typically incorporated through accessories, artwork, throw pillows, small decor items, or even a single piece of statement furniture. The 10% is your opportunity to showcase personality, add a pop of color, or introduce an element of surprise. It’s these finishing touches that often become the focal points of a room, tying together the other elements and completing the design narrative.
By thoughtfully applying the 60 30 10 rule, you create a well-balanced and harmonious interior that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. This approach ensures that your space feels cohesive and intentional, while still offering enough variety to be visually engaging. Whether you’re designing a living room, bedroom, or office space, this principle provides a reliable framework for achieving professional-looking results in your interior design projects.
Using The 60-30-10 Rule To Achieve Personal Style and Moods
The 60-30-10 rule isn’t just about creating visually balanced spaces; it’s a powerful tool for expressing personal style and setting specific moods in your home. By strategically applying this principle, you can craft environments that reflect your unique taste and evoke desired emotions.
Expressing Personal Style:
Your choice of colors and elements for each percentage can dramatically showcase your personality. For instance, if you love a bohemian aesthetic, your 60% could be a warm, earthy tone, your 30% might incorporate rich, jewel-toned textiles, and your 10% could feature eclectic, global-inspired accessories. Alternatively, for a minimalist look, your 60% might be crisp white, your 30% could be sleek, monochromatic furniture, and your 10% might include subtle pops of a single accent color.
Creating Moods:
The rule also allows you to craft specific atmospheres. For a calming bedroom, you might choose a soft blue for 60%, gentle gray for 30%, and touches of white for 10%. To energize a home office, consider a neutral backdrop for 60%, vibrant yellow for 30%, and bold red accents for 10%.
Seasonal Adaptability:
One of the beauties of this rule is its flexibility. You can easily shift moods or styles by altering the 10% and sometimes the 30% elements. This allows for seasonal updates or mood changes without overhauling your entire space.
Balancing Trends and Timless base, incorporating trendy elements in the 30% and 10% portions. This approach allows you to stay current without committing to passing fads in a major way.
Cohesion Across Spaces:
Apply the rule across different rooms to create a cohesive feel throughout your home. You can use the same color palette but shift the percentages to give each room its own character while maintaining overall harmony.
60-30-10 Rule in Different Rooms
Let’s talk about how the 60-30-10 rule can work its magic in various spaces of your home. This tried-and-true principle isn’t just for pro designers – it’s a secret weapon for anyone looking to spruce up their space. So, let’s dive in and see how this rule can transform different rooms!
Living Room
Your living room is where the 60 30 10 rule can really shine. Think of your walls and largest furniture piece (probably that comfy sofa) as your 60%. Maybe it’s a warm beige or a cool gray. Then, bring in your 30% with curtains, an area rug, or accent chairs – perhaps in a complementary shade or pattern. Finally, let your personality pop with that 10% – throw pillows, artwork, or a funky lamp. Voila! You’ve got a living room that looks pulled together without trying too hard.
Bedroom
In the bedroom, the 60 30 10 color palette can help create your perfect sanctuary. Your 60% might be the wall color and bedding in a soothing tone. The 30% could come into play with a cozy armchair, a plush rug, or even a feature wall. Then, have fun with the 10% – maybe some vibrant artwork or a collection of colorful books on your nightstand.
Bathroom
Even in smaller spaces like bathrooms, the 60-30-10 rule works wonders. Tiles or paint can make up your 60%, while fixtures and towels might be your 30%. Then, add a splash of personality with your 10% – fun soap dispensers, a quirky shower curtain, or some greenery.
Bed Linens
Let’s talk about dressing your bed using the 60 30 10 rule. Your main sheet set and duvet could be your 60%, a contrasting flat sheet or bed runner your 30%, and decorative pillows your playful 10%. It’s an easy way to create a bed that looks like it jumped straight out of a home decor magazine!
Wallpaper and Painting
Want to make a statement? The 60 30 10 color palette is your friend when it comes to wallpaper and painting too. You could go bold with patterned wallpaper as your 60%, balance it with solid-colored furniture as your 30%, and add pops of a contrasting color in accessories for your 10%. Or flip it – use a solid color for most of the room and let a feature wall of funky wallpaper be your standout 10%.
Remember, the 60-30-10 rule isn’t a strict law – it’s more like a helpful guideline. Feel free to play around with it and make it your own. The key is to create spaces that make you happy when you walk into them. So go on, have fun with it, and happy decorating!
Breaking the Rule
Hey there, design rebels! While the 60 30 10 rule is a fantastic guideline, sometimes rules are meant to be broken. Let’s explore how you can shake things up and create truly unique spaces by bending (or completely ignoring) this classic principle. After all, your home should reflect your personality, even if that means coloring outside the lines!
Overwhelming with One Color
Who says you need three colors? Sometimes, going all-in with one hue can create a stunning impact. Imagine a room draped entirely in different shades of blue, from pale sky to deep navy. It’s a bold move that can turn a space into a serene sanctuary or a dramatic statement piece. Just remember to play with textures and tones to keep things interesting!
Using Multiple Dominant Colors
The 60-30-10 rule suggests one dominant color, but why stop there? Try splitting your space more evenly between two or three colors. This approach can create a vibrant, energetic atmosphere that’s perfect for creative types. Just be sure to choose colors that play well together to avoid a chaotic feel.
Adding More Accent Colors
Who said you have to stick to just one accent color? Break free from the 60 30 10 rule by introducing multiple pops of color throughout your space. This can work especially well in eclectic or bohemian-inspired rooms. Mix and match colorful throw pillows, artwork, and accessories to create a lively, personalized environment that tells your unique story.
Combining Different Styles
Here’s where things get really fun! Don’t be afraid to mix design styles. Pair that sleek, modern sofa with a vintage rug and eclectic wall art. By breaking away from a single, cohesive style, you can create a space that’s truly one-of-a-kind. This approach allows you to incorporate cherished pieces from different eras or styles without worrying about strict color ratios.
Remember, while the 60-30-10 rule is a great starting point, interior design is ultimately about expressing yourself. Feel free to use this principle as a jumping-off point, then tweak it to suit your tastes. Maybe you’ll end up with a 50-30-20 split, or even a wild 40-40-20 scheme!
The key is to trust your instincts and have fun with it. Your space should make you smile when you walk in, whether it strictly follows the 60 30 10 rule or throws it out the window entirely.
So go ahead, break the rules, and create a space that’s uniquely, wonderfully you!
Consulting with an Interior Designer For 60-30-10 Color Design
While the 60-30-10 rule provides a solid foundation for color design, sometimes bringing in a professional can take your space to the next level. An experienced interior designer can help you navigate the nuances of color theory, ensuring that your chosen palette not only adheres to the rule but also complements your existing furnishings and architecture. They can guide you in selecting the perfect shades that align with your personal style and the mood you want to create in each room.
Moreover, a designer can offer valuable insights on how to effectively apply the 60-30-10 rule across different rooms while maintaining a cohesive flow throughout your home. They can suggest innovative ways to incorporate your color scheme through various elements like textiles, artwork, and accessories, helping you achieve a balanced and harmonious look. Their expertise can be particularly helpful when dealing with challenging spaces or when you’re looking to break the rule creatively without compromising the overall aesthetic.
If you’re looking to transform your space using the 60-30-10 color design principle, consider reaching out to the experts at FABDIZ. Our team of skilled Interior designers in Bangalore can help you craft a personalized color palette that not only adheres to the 60-30-10 rule but also reflects your unique style and preferences. From initial color consultations to full-scale interior makeovers, FABDIZ can guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your space looks polished, cohesive, and uniquely you.
FAQs
What is the 60-30-10 color theme?
The 60-30-10 rule is a classic interior design principle for balancing colors in a space. It suggests using 60% of a dominant color, 30% of a secondary color, and 10% of an accent color. This creates a harmonious and visually appealing color palette for your room.
How many colors should you use in interior design?
While the 60 30 10 rule recommends using three colors, there’s no strict limit. Most designers suggest sticking to 3-5 colors for a cohesive look. The key is to create a balanced color palette that doesn’t overwhelm the space. You can always mix additional shades and tones within your chosen colors for more depth.
How do interior designers select a color palette?
Interior designers consider several factors when selecting a color palette:
1. The room’s function and desired mood
2. Existing elements like flooring or architectural features
3. Natural and artificial lighting
4. The client’s personal preferences
5. Color psychology and how different hues affect emotions
They often start with a base color (the 60% in the 60-30-10 rule) and build the palette from there, ensuring all colors complement each other.
What part of the room should make up 30% of the color?
In the 60 30 10 color rule, the 30% is typically applied to secondary elements in the room. This could include:
- Curtains or window treatments
- Area rugs
- Accent furniture pieces
- A feature wall
The 30% color helps break up the dominant color and adds visual interest to the space.
What is the ratio for decorating a room?
The 60-30-10 rule provides a popular ratio for decorating a room. However, it’s not the only approach. Some designers use variations like 70-20-10 or even 50-30-20. The key is to create a balanced distribution of colors that feels harmonious and pleasing to the eye. Remember, these ratios are guidelines rather than strict rules, and can be adjusted based on your personal style and the specific needs of your space.
