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The first step to choosing color can be overwhelming as you gaze through the different color chips, brochures combinations, and online inspiration. Before choosing colors, first decide which room you want to paint. The 60-30-10 method can help you select coordinating colors for your space, whether you’re repainting the entire room or just parts of it.
What is the 60-30-10 method?
60% – Main Color: Your foundation and visual anchor – this dominant color covers your walls and sets the room’s overall tone and mood.
30% – Secondary Color: This color balances and enhances your main color, typically featured on an accent wall or through substantial design elements.
10% – Accent Color: Your opportunity for impact. Use this bold, contrasting color strategically through furniture pieces, pillows, and décor to add depth and visual interest to your space. It’s the finishing touch that makes a room memorable.
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Now that you understand how to use the 60-30-10 rule you can use it to help decide on the new colors for your space. If you’re considering a complete color re-do, start by deciding on the main color you want to use. Think about the style or mood you want to create in the space. Do you want a calm and relaxing atmosphere, a vibrant and energetic feel, or a cozy and warm environment? Once you have a clear vision, choose a color that aligns with that mood and complements the existing elements in the room.
Determining the color, you want to go with will range from red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, white, gray or any type of neutral. Do you want a blue or a green that will make a room feel relaxed, tranquil and calming to the eyes. On the other hand, if you decide with orange, yellow or red these colors can make a room feel cozy, welcoming and cheerful. White, Gray and neutral are simple, effortless and timeless colors to use.
Blues and greens work well in bedrooms to bring a sense of relaxation. Reds, oranges and yellows work well in dining rooms, foyers and family rooms to provide a welcoming atmosphere.
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If you are deciding to paint an open space it is best to go with one color to paint the entirety of the area. A white, gray or neutral will work well to keep the continuity of the space and have an open feel.
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After you decide on a general color – for example, if you choose blue – you’ll need to select a specific shade. Do you want a bright blue, muted blue, saturated dusty blue or a gray blue? There are many different shades and tones available, so it’s important to determine which specific shade works best for your space.
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Ready to bring your color vision to life? Explore our inspiration galleries where you can discover different room types, color families, moods, and styles. These galleries will help you visualize how your chosen colors can work in real spaces. Living Room Inspiration and Paint Color Ideas | Behr
Colorfully yours,
Deanna