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Image Credit: Brizmaker/Getty ImagesSelecting the right colors is one of the biggest challenges in home decoration. Should you go bold or stick to neutral tones? Even after picking a primary color, you still need to decide on complementary shades for furniture, textiles, and accents. Without a design background, it can be hard to trust your instincts in creating a harmonious color scheme. Fortunately, the 60-30-10 rule, a designer-favorite technique, simplifies this process and takes the stress out of color selection.
Discover more about this 'rule'—better described as a practical guideline—and how to apply it to your home decorating projects.
Understanding the 60-30-10 Rule
Don’t let the numbers scare you—the 60-30-10 rule is an easy method to organize your home’s color scheme. "This rule divides your palette into three parts: 60% dominant color, 30% secondary color, and 10% accent color," explains Amber Guyton, a featured designer in Mytour HOME 2024. For example, in a living room, the dominant color might cover walls or large furniture, the secondary color could appear in curtains or chairs, and the accent color might pop in decorative items or cushions.
"By following these guidelines and sticking to similar tones, you can effortlessly blend multiple colors into a cohesive design," Guyton adds.
Although Guyton loves bold colors and isn’t afraid to experiment, she acknowledges that selecting colors for your home can feel overwhelming. "It’s all about achieving balance," she notes. The 60-30-10 rule simplifies this by providing a clear framework, making it easier to apply your chosen colors.
Applying the 60-30-10 Rule in Your Space
The application of the 60-30-10 rule varies by room, but it can be used everywhere in your home. For instance, in a living room, the 60% might cover walls, a sofa, and a rug, while in a kitchen, it could apply to cabinets. The 30% might include the backsplash, and the 10% could feature hardware or appliances.
Begin by assigning the 60-30-10 percentages to the room’s elements. This will help you see how well your space aligns with the rule and identify areas for adjustment. Consider existing natural materials and tones, like wooden trim, which could fit into the 30% or 10% categories. Use these tones to guide your choice of secondary or accent colors.
When selecting colors for each bucket—dominant, secondary, and accent—refer to the color wheel. For a bold contrast, pick a dominant color (60%), then choose a complementary secondary color (30%) from the opposite side of the wheel, and an accent color (10%) closer to the dominant shade. For a softer look, choose three colors near each other on the wheel.
"Finally, enjoy the process and don’t stress," Guyton advises. "The aim is to create a space that feels good and brings happiness. Whether it’s an emerald plaid sofa, magenta wallpaper, or a cobalt chandelier, embrace it and experiment with colors to your heart’s delight!"
