Color is the most emotional element of interior design. It affects mood, perception of space, and how long people want to stay in a room.
The 60-30-10 Rule
The simplest framework for room color is the 60-30-10 distribution. Sixty percent comes from the dominant hue — usually the wall color. Thirty percent comes from secondary elements — large furniture, curtains, rugs. Ten percent comes from accents.
Understanding Undertones
The biggest color mistake is ignoring undertones. A white that looks clean in the can might have a pink or green undertone that clashes with existing trim. Test colors on the actual wall, in actual light, at different times of day.
Room-Specific Considerations
Kitchens benefit from warm colors that stimulate appetite and activity. Bedrooms work best with cooler, muted tones that promote relaxation. North-facing rooms receive cool light all day and benefit from warm wall colors to compensate.