Ever feel like your living room looks a bit chaotic? The 60‑30‑20 rule can fix that in minutes. It’s a simple math trick that tells you how much of each colour or element you should use, so the room feels put together without you over‑thinking every detail.
The idea is straightforward: pick one dominant colour or material and let it cover about 60 % of the space. Then choose a secondary colour that makes up roughly 30 % and finally add an accent that takes up the remaining 20 %. You can apply this to paint, furniture, rugs, cushions, curtains, or even décor pieces. For example, a navy sofa (60 %), a soft teal wall colour (30 %), and mustard‑yellow cushions (20 %). The percentages keep the eye from wandering too much and give the room a natural rhythm.
1. Identify your base. Walk into the room and pick the biggest item or colour you love – usually the sofa, wall paint, or a large rug. That will be your 60 %.
2. Add a supporting tone. Look for a colour that pairs well but isn’t as bold. This could be curtains, a secondary wall, or a rug that sits under the sofa. Aim for about 30 % of the visual space.
3. Bring in accents. Choose small items – throw pillows, artwork, vases, or a lamp – that contrast or complement the other two colours. They should make up roughly 20 % of what you see.
4. Check the balance. Step back and estimate the percentages. If it feels off, swap a cushion for a larger pillow or add a throw to shift the ratio.
5. Adjust for texture. The rule works with texture too. Use a smooth fabric for the 60 % piece, a woven material for the 30 % layer, and a glossy or patterned accent for the final 20 %.
Remember, the rule isn’t a strict law. It’s a guide that helps you stay organized while still being creative. If you love bold colours, you can push the 60 % a bit higher, as long as the other two parts still feel like support.
Applying the 60‑30‑20 rule makes shopping easier, too. When you’re picking new items, ask yourself “Does this fit the 60, 30, or 20‑percent bucket?” That question stops you from buying random pieces that clash later on.
Give it a try in any room – bedroom, kitchen, office – and you’ll notice the space instantly looks more cohesive. The best part? You don’t need a design degree, just a quick mental math check and a willingness to have fun with colour.
The 60 30 20 rule is a popular guideline in interior design used to balance colors within a space. This article dives into how this rule applies to decorating with cushions, creating harmony and interest in a room. By using cushions effectively, you can elevate a space from mundane to extraordinary without an overhaul. This guide offers practical tips and interesting facts to help you master this simple yet effective design strategy.