When it comes to interior decorating, one of the most important elements is creating a sense of balance and harmony in the space. While there are endless design choices out there, one simple formula can make all the difference—Sandi’s Tip for interior decorating, also known as the 60-30-10 Rule. This timeless approach to styling rooms ensures that your space feels cohesive, aesthetically pleasing, and well-balanced. Here’s how it works:
1. 60% - The Main Colour (Walls or Flooring)
The base of any room’s design is its primary colour. According to the 60-30-10 rule, 60% of the space should be filled with one dominant colour. This is typically applied to the largest areas of the room, such as walls, flooring, and large furniture pieces.
The goal is to choose a colour that sets the tone for the entire room—whether
it’s a calming neutral like beige or gray, or a bold, statement-making colour like navy blue or forest green. For example, if you opt for a soft gray wall, the rest of the room will play off of this grounding colour. This 60% serves as a solid backdrop, creating a serene and unified environment.
2. 30% - The Secondary or Complementary Colour
The secondary colour in the 60-30-10 rule should cover 30% of the space. This colour is often seen in medium-sized furniture, accent walls, or decorative items like pillows, rugs, and curtains. The secondary colour should complement or contrast the main colour in a way that creates harmony within the space.
For instance, if you’ve chosen a neutral gray for your walls and flooring, a deep
blue might be a beautiful complementary colour. This secondary hue can be introduced through pieces like an accent chair, throw pillows, or artwork. It should enhance the dominant colour while still standing out, without overwhelming the space.
3. 10% - The Accent Colour
The accent colour is the final touch, and it’s meant to add a pop of vibrancy to the room. This is where you can get a little creative, introducing bold, playful hues that inject personality into your space. Accent colour are often found in smaller, more decorative elements such as vases, lighting fixtures, throws, or artwork.
For example, if your dominant colour is a cool gray and your secondary colour is
navy blue, you might choose an accent colour like mustard yellow, coral, or metallic gold. These small splashes of colour add interest and excitement to the room, but the key is to use them sparingly—just 10% of the overall design.
Why Does it work?
The 60-30-10 rule works because it creates a natural balance within the room. By distributing colours in this proportion, you avoid overwhelming the space with one single hue while still allowing for variety and visual interest. The main colour acts as a calming anchor, the secondary colour provides depth and contrast, and the accent colour adds energy and vibrancy.
This formula also helps create a sense of cohesion. Even if you’re mixing different colours and patterns, the 60-30-10 rule ensures that the space feels unified and thoughtfully designed.
How to apply the 60-30-10 rule to your home?
Here are some quick tips to help you incorporate the 60-30-10 rule into your interior decor:
Start with a neutral foundation
If you’re unsure where to begin, neutrals like white, gray, or beige can be excellent starting points for your main colour. These tones offer flexibility for pairing with a wide range of complementary and accent colours.
Think about your furniture
Large furniture items such as sofas, coffee tables, and bookshelves typically fall into the 30% category. Choose a colour that complements your walls and flooring but still provides a bit of contrast.
Add personality with accent pieces
Use your accent colour in small but eye- catching ways. A brightly coloured throw, a funky rug, or vibrant art can quickly transform a room.
Consider lighting
Lighting can also play a role in reinforcing the 60-30-10 balance. Whether it’s through a statement chandelier, table lamps, or wall sconces, lighting can highlight your accent colours and bring the whole room together.
Final Thoughts
Sandi’s 60-30-10 rule is an easy, foolproof way to bring balance and harmony into your interior decorating. Whether you’re designing a living room, bedroom, or even a bathroom, this simple strategy ensures that your space will feel well-proportioned and visually appealing. By carefully selecting your colours and applying them thoughtfully, you can create a room that feels both stylish and serene, with just the right amount of personality. So, embrace this rule, get creative, and have fun decorating your space!