At Spriha Jain Interiors, we often meet homeowners who feel overwhelmed when choosing colours for their space. And honestly, we get it! There are thousands of colours and combinations out there, and not everyone has the time (or patience!) to figure out what works best. That’s why our team loves simplifying things, especially when it comes to something as fundamental as colour. One of the easiest and most effective formulas we use is called the 60-30-10 rule, and today, we’re breaking it down for you in a way that makes it super simple to apply in your own home. And if you’re searching for the best interior designer in Kandivali to help you bring these ideas to life, you’ve landed in the right place!
What is the 60-30-10 Rule?
This classic rule is all about achieving visual balance in any room by dividing colours into three simple percentages:
60% – The Main Colour
30% – The Secondary Colour
10% – The Accent Colour
Think of it like dressing up: your 60% is the outfit (say, a dress or shirt & trousers), the 30% is your jacket or scarf, and the 10% is your jewellery or handbag that adds that final pop. The same logic applies to designing your home.
This rule helps create harmony and ensures your space doesn’t look too bland or overly chaotic. It’s perfect for beginners who want their rooms to look thoughtfully put together without hiring a stylist every time they change curtains!
Breaking Down the 60-30-10 Rule: How It Works
Let’s imagine you’re designing your living room. Here’s how you might apply the 60-30-10 rule:
1. 60% – Main Colour
This is your dominant shade. It usually goes on the walls, large rugs, or big furniture pieces like your sofa.
Examples: Beige, white, grey, or soft pastels for a calm look.
At Spriha Jain Interiors, we often suggest soft neutrals as the 60% base when working on subtle, elegant homes in Mumbai apartments.
2. 30% – Secondary Colour
This is the supporting shade. It adds contrast and depth.
Examples: It could show up in curtains, side chairs, accent walls, or cabinetry.
For many of our clients looking for a warm, inviting feel, we pair soft beige walls (60%) with olive green furniture (30%).
3. 10% – Accent Colour
This is your fun colour! It brings life and personality to the space.
Examples: Cushions, lampshades, artwork, planters, or even colourful vases.
Recently, we designed a space for a family in Kandivali where mustard yellow cushions and artwork added the perfect 10% punch to a cool-toned palette.
Why We Recommend It for Indian Homes
Indian homes often have to strike a balance between function and aesthetics, small spaces, lots of activity, and diverse tastes! That’s why our team of residential interior designers in Kandivali love recommending this rule. It’s flexible, easy to use, and works across Indian design styles, from minimalistic modern apartments to more traditional homes with carved woodwork.
With Mumbai’s compact apartments, this rule also prevents visual clutter. When you’re restricted by space, controlling your colour palette using 60-30-10 keeps the room clean and cohesive.
We also love how easily the rule allows seasonal updates! Want to make your space feel festive? Swap the 10% accents with vibrant reds or gold. Want a summer vibe? Switch to sea blues or citrus tones.
Tips from Our Team for Using the Rule Like a Pro
Here are a few things we’ve learned while applying the 60-30-10 rule in real homes across Mumbai:
Start With a Mood Board
Before buying anything, put your colours together in a collage or on paper. You’ll immediately see what feels balanced and what doesn’t.
Stick to the Ratios
Try not to go overboard with the 10% accent colour. That tiny pop is powerful because it’s limited!
Mix Textures
You can stay within one colour family but still add interest through textures. For example, all beige elements can include matte walls, glossy cushions, and a woven rug.
Don’t Forget Lighting
Lighting changes how colours appear. Test your main and secondary shades in daylight and artificial light before finalising.
Use Colour Tools
Many free apps and websites help you visualise the 60-30-10 split. Our team uses them during planning and even shares mood boards with clients for easy approvals.
Still Confused? Let Us Help You!
The truth is that rules are just a starting point. Every home and homeowner is different. While the 60-30-10 rule is a great base, our job as designers is to customize it to suit you. Whether you’re starting from scratch or just refreshing one corner of your home, our interior designing services in Kandivali can bring clarity, creativity, and calm to your design process.
Our team at Spriha Jain Interiors loves combining style with strategy. We don’t believe in copy-paste designs. Your space should tell your story. From concept to colour, from planning to placement, we take care of everything.
Why Choose Spriha Jain Interiors?
With years of hands-on experience and a reputation as the best interior designer in Kandivali, Spriha Jain and her team are known for crafting warm, functional, and beautiful spaces. Whether it’s a modern flat, a traditional home, or even a quirky one-room studio, we bring thoughtfulness to every detail.
We specialise in residential interiors that feel fresh, timeless, and totally “you.”
Ready to design your home the right way?
Connect with Spriha Jain Interiors today, and let’s bring your dream space to life.