60:30:10 Rule | Diamond Vogel (2024)

PAINTING WITH PROPER PROPORTIONS OF COLOR

Paint color can transform and revitalize your home. It can also be usedto engage and create welcoming home environments. One way to do this is with proper proportions of different hues and shades of color.

The 60:30:10 color theory is one of the basic rules to having a harmonious end result.

Color is one opportunity where it’s OK to play favorites. Afterdeciding which three hues will best complement the room, decide which color will be the dominant. Equal amounts of each color in your scheme will result in a spotty visual. Even proportions of color surprisingly result in a moreunbalanced look.

After choosing three shades, break them down into the 60:30:10 rule for a cohesive look—60 percent dominant color, 30 percent secondary color and 10 percent accent color. This idea can be translated to the relatable cohesion of planning a wardrobe outfit: 60 percent is the main outfit color, 30 percent provides visual interest like shoes, neck tie or handbag, 10 percent like the jewelry that provides the sparkling details.

So, when planning a color scheme for your next painting project, divide the colors proportionally in this way:
• 60 percent of a dominant color
• 30 percent of a secondary color
• 10 percent of an accent color