The 70-20-10 rule is a well-known principle of interior design that can help you create a properly balanced and cohesive look in any space. The general idea behind this rule is to distribute the colors in a room according to specific percentages, allowing you to create a harmonious look that isn’t too cluttered or overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of the 70-20-10 rule in decorating:
Remember, this rule is not set in stone, but it can be a useful starting point when you’re unsure of which color combinations to go with in your design. Play around with different proportions for each percentage to create a unique look that reflects your personal style and taste.
Understanding the Basics of the 70-20-10 Rule in Decorating
Decorating your home can seem like an overwhelming task, especially when it comes to choosing colors. The 70-20-10 rule is a simple approach to help you create a cohesive and visually balanced color scheme in any room of your home. This rule is based on using three colors in specific proportions to achieve a well-coordinated look.
The 70-20-10 rule suggests that you choose one dominant color for 70% of your room’s color scheme, a secondary color for 20%, and an accent color for 10%. This rule is not set in stone but serves as a guideline that will help evoke the right mood, and create a more balanced look.
Why the 70-20-10 Rule is Important in Creating a Balanced Color Scheme
The 70-20-10 rule is important when creating a balanced color scheme because it helps avoid the risk of your decor looking chaotic or disorganized. By following the rule, you will ensure that each color complements one another, and the overall look and feel of the room are harmonious. The rule also helps create contrast and visual interest in your space, making it more appealing to the eye.
How to Choose the Dominant Color for Your Space
Choosing the dominant color for your space can be a tricky task. To avoid making any mistakes, start by considering the existing colors in the room. Take note of the colors used in your flooring, walls, and furniture. This will help give you an idea of which color would work best as the dominant one.
Cool colors like blue and green can create a serene atmosphere, while warmer colors like red and orange can create a more energetic feel. Remember, your dominant color will set the tone for the entire room, so choose carefully.
Incorporating Secondary Colors with the 20% Rule
The secondary color is used to complement the dominant color and add depth to your space. This color can be added through textiles such as curtains, upholstery, and rugs. It’s essential to remember that the secondary color should appear in smaller amounts than the dominant color.
A great way to incorporate the secondary color is by creating contrast between the dominant and secondary hues. For example, if your dominant color is light blue, you could add a secondary color like a dark navy blue to create visual interest and depth.
Accenting Your Space with the 10% Rule
The accent color is the final 10% of the color scheme, and it’s used to create emphasis and draw attention to specific areas of the room. This color can be added through accessories like cushions, decor items, and artwork.
When choosing an accent color, think about what mood you want to create in the space. Bold, bright colors like hot pink or turquoise can add a playful or lively feel to the room. Alternatively, muted colors like grey or beige can create a sense of calm and sophistication.
Tips and Tricks for Implementing the 70-20-10 Rule in Decorating
– Experiment with different shades of your chosen colors to find the perfect combination.
– Use neutrals like white, black, or grey throughout your space to create balance and help colors stand out.
– Choose materials and patterns that contain the colors you want to use in your room. This will help create consistency and balance in your space.
– Use the colors you’ve chosen in different areas of the room. For example, you could use your dominant color in your walls, secondary color in your curtains, and accent color in your cushions or throw pillows.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using the 70-20-10 Rule in Decorating
– Don’t be afraid to mix patterns and textures to add depth to your space. Just make sure you keep the colors consistent.
– Be careful when choosing your accent color. This color is used sparingly, so it’s important to choose one that complements the other colors in the room.
– Don’t forget to consider natural lighting when choosing your color scheme. Different lighting conditions can change the way colors appear in your space.
– Avoid choosing too many colors in your space. Stick with the 70-20-10 rule to keep your color scheme cohesive.
In summary, the 70-20-10 rule is an excellent guideline for creating a balanced color scheme in any room of your home. Remember, choosing the right colors can set the tone and mood for the entire space, so take your time and experiment with different combinations. Following this rule will help create visual harmony, making your space more appealing to the eye.
