The 60-30-10 rule is one of the most commonly used tools for interior designers, helping create a harmonious, visually refined, and comfortable space. This rule involves distributing colors in a space proportionally as follows:
60% – Primary Color (Dominant Color):
This is the main color of the space, which sets the background tone and occupies the largest area in the interior. It is usually applied to walls, floors, large furniture, or other major surfaces. This color establishes the mood and base of the room. Often, it is neutral but not necessarily.
For example, a stone color that we could apply to the walls and ceilings.
30% – Secondary Color (Supporting Color):
The secondary color complements the primary color, adding depth and structure to the space. It is used for furniture, curtains, or smaller elements.
For example: deep blue, green, natural wood tones, etc.
10% – Accent Color:
Accent colors are applied over the neutral base to create contrast and visual interest. These colors are usually more vivid and are used sparingly in accessories such as pillows, vases, picture frames, lamps, decorative fabrics, and throws.
For example: gold, red, blue, or other saturated colors.
აქცენტური ფერები შეგვიძლია გამოვიყენოთ აქსესუარებში-ბალიშები, ვაზები, ნახატების ჩარჩოები, სანათები, დეკორატიული ნაჭრები, გადასაფარებლი. მაგ.: ოქროსფერი, წითელი, ცისფერი ან სხვა გაჯერებული ფერი.
Purpose of the 60-30-10 Rule
Structuring the Design:
Proportional color distribution simplifies design planning—you know exactly how much of each color to use.
Creating Visual Balance:
One color dominates, the second reinforces it, and the third adds contrast, making the design dynamic and varied.
Achieving a Professional Look with Minimal Effort:
Even without being a professional designer, this rule offers an easy way to achieve a polished result.
Balanced Color Combination:
It provides a simple framework for combining multiple colors without compromising unity.
Example
Imagine a living room:
- 60%: Light beige walls and floor
- 30%: Gray sofa and curtains
- 10%: Yellow pillows, blue vase, and gold lamps
Why This Rule is Important
- It naturally attracts the eye—humans instinctively seek balance and proportion.
- It reduces the risk of color mistakes—less trial and error, better results.
- It allows easy scaling—if you want to refresh the space, simply change the accent colors.
Why This Rule is Effective
- Helps achieve visual balance
- Simplifies the color selection process
- Creates a professional and thoughtful design appearance
Examples of Color Distribution
Natural and Cozy Palette:
- 60%: Warm white or light beige walls
- 30%: Natural wood tones in furniture
- 10%: Olive or green accents
Modern Blue Space:
- 60%: Light gray
- 30%: Dark blue
- 10%: Yellow or copper accents
Designer Tips
- Incorporate texture in accent colors—metal, wood, or glass elements.
- 60-30-10 does not mean only three colors—each category can include related shades (e.g., several tones of beige).
- The rule can be broken deliberately for visual effect or budget reasons. Having a strong base color makes it easier and more cost-effective to change decorative elements seasonally or according to trends.
This simple strategy allows you to completely change the perception and appearance of a space while making a low-cost investment.
This is a very simple strategy that allows you to completely change the perception and appearance of a space, making an investment at a very low cost considering the time.
In short, the 60-30-10 rule helps you:
- Keep the space balanced
- Avoid overloading or underwhelming it with color
- Make the design more systematic and less chaotic
This is a very simple strategy that allows you to completely change the perception and appearance of a space, making an investment at a very low cost considering the time.