The 60-30-10 rule of interior design

The 60-30-10 rule is an interior design principle that helps to create chromatically harmonious and balanced environments. Its simplicity lies in the proportions it suggests: the room is divided into three tones, each of which has a specific percentage.
Let us see in detail how to apply it to achieve a comfortable and coordinated home.

The 60-30-10 rule: a chromatic balance

This rule suggests dividing the colours in a room according to these proportions:

1. Dominant colour (60%): This colour, which takes up most of the space, is often used for walls, floors and main furniture such as sofas or wardrobes. In general, it is advisable to choose a neutral and light colour such as beige, light grey or natural wood tones, as they create a cosy and relaxing base.
   
   
2. Secondary colour (30%): The secondary colour adds contrast without breaking the overall harmony. It could be used for curtains, carpets, chairs or other furnishings that maintain a visual link with the main colour, while adding an interesting variation.
   
   
3. Accent colour (10%): This is the most vibrant or contrasting colour used to attract attention. It can be used in small details such as cushions, lamps, paintings or other decorative accessories and furnishings. It is a way of adding character and dynamism to rooms.

Additional tips for a balanced environment

The 60-30-10 rule should not be applied rigidly. Our home contains not just three colours, but a variety of nuances within the three main tones we have chosen. It is important to define the three main colours and work on their nuances to enrich the ambience.

• Dark and light colours: Remember that dark colours tend to close and shrink the room, while light colours amplify and enlarge it. This is crucial when choosing the dominant colour, especially if you want to make a room seem larger or create a more intimate atmosphere.
  
  
• Contrast colours: A good way to create contrast is to work with opposite colours on the palette, such as a blue with an orange or a red with a soft pink. This approach allows you to create lively and interesting colour combinations without sacrificing overall harmony.
  
  
• Colours and objects: Another useful technique is to echo the colours of the palette here and there in the room, especially in decorative objects. For example, if you choose red as an accent colour, spread it around the room with accessories such as cushions, vases or textures in fabrics to create visual continuity.

The 60-30-10(5+5) rule

In particularly large rooms, or if you want to give them more personality, you can divide the last 10% into two accent colours to create a more dynamic visual play (60-30-5-5), for example by opting for metallic accessories and furnishings or contrasting textile patterns.

Decorating ideas with the 60-30-10 rule with tavolisedie.com

By applying the 60-30-10 rule, you can create a balanced and visually pleasing ambience, but always remember to adapt it to your personal taste. Move colours around the room, experiment with contrasts and play with shades to transform your home into a cosy and thoughtful environment.

For inspiration, check out tavolisedie.com, where you can find quality furniture to accent your space, and find out how designer tables and colourful chairs can become the star of your 10%.