Are you familiar with the 60-30-10 rule?

Have you ever noticed that those paints strips offering colour suggestions often feature three colours in a 60-30-10 ratio?

The “60” represents the room’s dominant colour, meaning 60% of the colour in the room. The “30” is the secondary colour, while the “10” is what we call the accent colour—it’s an intense colour that brings life to the space without overloading it, and it’s often found in your accessories.

This simple rule of thumb for paint colours will add balance and harmony to your décor. Designers use it regularly, and you’ll find it in the pages of any design magazine. If you need help remembering this useful trick, picture in your mind’s eye a well-dressed businessman: suit (60%), shirt (30%) and tie (10%).

The following photos featuring purple accents illustrate this concept beautifully.