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The 60-30-10 Rule in Interior Design – Achieving the Perfect Look


When it comes to designing a space, whether it's a cosy living room, a stylish office, or a welcoming bedroom, the 60-30-10 rule is a fundamental principle that can make a significant impact. This rule offers a straightforward guideline for achieving a balanced and harmonious colour scheme that appeals to the eye and creates a sense of cohesion. Let's delve into this rule and explore how you can use it to transform your space.


Understanding the 60-30-10 Rule

The 60-30-10 rule is a basic concept used in interior design to distribute colours within a space. It helps in achieving a visually appealing balance between primary, secondary, and accent colours. Here's a breakdown of how it works:


- 60% Dominant Colour: This should be the primary colour of your space and typically covers the largest area. It sets the tone for the room and forms the backdrop for other colours and elements. This could be your walls, large furniture pieces, or flooring.

- 30% Secondary Colour: This complements the dominant colour and should occupy about 30% of the space. It can be applied to furniture, draperies, or rugs. The secondary colour adds depth and visual interest to the room.

- 10% Accent Colour: This is the pop of colour that brings excitement and personality to your design. Use it sparingly but strategically in accessories like throw pillows, artwork, vases, or small decor items.


Applying the Rule in Practice

Now, let's see how you can apply the 60-30-10 rule to create a cohesive and visually pleasing interior:


- Choosing the Dominant Colour: Start by selecting a colour that will dominate the space. Neutral colours like whites, greys, or beige work well and provide a versatile base. For a bolder look, opt for richer hues like navy blue, forest green, or charcoal.


- Selecting the Secondary Colour: The secondary colour should complement the dominant colour while adding depth. Consider using contrasting tones or analogous colours (those next to each other on the colour wheel) to create a harmonious blend.


- Incorporating the Accent Colour: This is where you can infuse your personality and style. Choose an accent colour that contrasts with the dominant and secondary colours to make it stand out. Bright yellows, reds, blues, or metallic like gold or copper can work beautifully.


- Balancing the Distribution: Ensure that the colours are distributed as per the rule across the room. The dominant colour should cover around 60% of the space, the secondary colour around 30%, and the accent colour around 10%. This distribution helps maintain visual balance.


Tips for Success

- Experiment with Shades and Tones: Within each colour category, play around with shades and tones to add dimension and interest.


- Consider Textures and Finishes: Incorporate different textures and finishes to further enhance the visual appeal of your design.


- Don’t Overwhelm with Accent Colour: The accent colour should be used sparingly to create focal points and prevent overwhelming the space.


The 60-30-10 rule is a fantastic tool for achieving a well-balanced and aesthetically pleasing interior design. Whether you're revamping an entire room or just refreshing a corner, adhering to this rule will help you create a cohesive and inviting space. Remember, design is subjective, so feel free to experiment and tailor the rule to suit your personal taste and style preferences. With a bit of creativity and attention to detail, you can transform any space into a stunning masterpiece that reflects your unique personality.

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