Wow! There’s a basic decorating design rule? Who knew? Most of us don’t exactly know where or how to start when we get ready to address the issue of home decor. It can be intimidating, but read on for some help when you are starting out.
60-30-10 Rule – The Basic Decorating Design Rule
This is a classic design rule that helps create the color palette for your rooms. Simply put it means that 60% of the color in your room should be the background color – the color you choose to paint the room.
The 30% is the secondary color that you choose to feature in your room. It supports the main color, but only appears half as much. It adds interest and diversity to the room.
The final 10% is your accent color. Have fun with this! It can be bold or understated and it gives your room its character. The really great thing about the 10% is that it is really easy (and relatively inexpensive) to change it up with your moods or the seasons.
Items/Elements for the 60-30-10 Rule
60% – Wall color, rugs, sofa, large foundation or big accent pieces
30% – Painted items or furniture, window treatments, smaller foundation pieces
10% – Decorative accessories, pillows, artwork, floral pieces
**For some great ideas for color combinations check out these suggestions from The Spruce.
The Final Step
Now its time to begin planning your three colors. Well, you have options in color schemes.
A monochromatic scheme – This works best when you choose a neutral. Monochromatic means that you will then select lighter and darker versions of the original color choice. This works best with white, cream, ecru, beige, gray or greige.
If you opt for a scheme with colors its best to begin by studying the color wheel. Want to learn more? Click here.
An analogous scheme – Choose three colors on the color wheel that are next to or adjacent to each other and use the middle color for your 60%.
A complimentary or split-complimentary scheme – Choose two colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel – one will be warm and the other cool. Or add a third color by choosing a color next to one of your selected colors. For instance, if you choose green and yellow you might select an orange for the third color.
These are just basic rules. Once you get going, researching, looking at colors and the color wheel – the sky is the limit. You are only bounded by your imagination.
If you create a room you are proud of – share it with us. We would love to hear your comments, too. Don’t forget, it all starts with a great interior paint job. If you get inspired, give us a call and let us help you with get started on your paint/decor project!.
If you would like to meet with us for a free, no-obligation estimate just give Britt a call at 803-603-6386 , uor e-mail us at ellisb@colatownpainting.com
Please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you.
Recent Comments