In this article, we highlight the importance of harmonizing colors in interior design! If you're looking for precise advice on the choice of each color, adapted to your interior and your tastes, we suggest you consult our colour guide dedicated to colors.
Apply the 60-30-10 rule for a harmonious color scheme in your interior design!
Ever heard of the 60-30-10 rule?
The 60-30-10 rule is a basic principle widely used in interior design to create a homogeneous color scheme. According to this rule, you should distribute the colors in your palette as follows:
- 60% for the primary color,
- 30% for secondary color,
- 10% for accent color.
To go further, here's a tip from our agency :
- For your dominant color (60%) : Opt for a neutral or subtle hue that will serve as a backdrop for the rest of your decor.
- For your secondary color (30%): Choose a color that contrasts slightly with your dominant color to add depth and visual interest to your decor.
- For your accent color (10%): Focus on decorative accessories, artwork or cushions in vibrant hues that contrast with the main colors of your decor.
For example, in a living room, you could opt for walls painted in a soothing neutral hue (the dominant color), furniture in shades of gray or beige (the secondary color), and accents of bright colors like mustard yellow or navy blue (the accent color) through cushions, rugs or artwork.
I invite you to read Alexandra Boussagol's article on "Dare to be colorful! With photos and explanations, she tells you how to combine colors for your interior design.
Using the color wheel to harmonize colors for your interior design
I'm sure you've already seen the color wheel! Did you know that it's an ultra-powerful tool for associating colors? As interior designers, we often use it.
The color wheel is a circular representation of colors, organized according to their relationships and properties. It's made up of primary colors (red, blue, yellow), secondary colors (obtained by mixing primary colors: orange, green, violet) and tertiary colors (obtained by mixing a primary color and a secondary color). This tool enables you to understand the interactions between colors and create harmonious combinations.
Using the chromatic circle
Primary, secondary and tertiary colors : on the chromatic circle, you'll find primary colors (the basis of all other colors and cannot be created by mixing other colors), secondary colors (created by mixing two adjacent primary colors) and tertiary colors (combinations of primary and secondary colors).
Color harmonies are color combinations that create a pleasing visual balance.
- Faux camaïeu The use of different shades of the same color to create a subtle yet harmonious effect.
- Light-dark contrast : It involves the use of very light and very dark colors to create a strong visual contrast.
- Color contrast in itself : It refers to the difference between different shades of color. For example, a dark yellow will have a high contrast with a brighter yellow.
We invite you to discover the hot-cold contrast in our article on colors.
Applying the color wheel
1. Choose a base color which will be the dominant color of your palette. This color will form the basis of your decor and should reflect the mood you want to create.
2. Experiment with different shades, tones and hues of your base color. You can opt for lighter shades for walls and textiles, darker tones for furniture and accessories, and varied hues to add depth and visual interest.
3. Use a variety of textures and materials to add richness and dimension to your monochromatic palette. Contrasting textures can create an interesting visual impact while maintaining color consistency.
By following the monochromatic color rule, you can create an elegant, sophisticated interior design that exudes harmony and refinement.
At Maison Tchenio, we understand the crucial importance of choosing the right colors for your interior. As interior design experts, we're here to help you transform your home into a space that's uniquely yours. Whether you're looking for a bold, dynamic color palette or a softer, more calming ambience, our team can guide you through the color selection process.
Explore our complete color guide for specific advice on choosing each hue to suit your style, preferences and home features. With Maison Tchenio, you can create an interior design that inspires and delights you every day.