Colour theory is the science of the interpretation of colours and what its impact on how we feel. That's why it is very important to use it to help us create the perfect mood when we decorate a room.

 

1. Quick intro: Colour Wheel

The colour wheel is a visual representation of 3 different categories of colours: primary, secondary and tertiary.

 

 

2. Colour Scheme Ideas: Most popular colour combinaisons

When decorating a room, Interior designers usually use one of those colour combinaisons:

 - Analogous : groups of 3 or more colours that are next to each other on the colour wheel

- Complementary : It uses opposite colour on the colour wheel

- Split complementary : The complementary method with 3 colours (adjacent to its complement)

- Triadic : The triadic colour scheme uses colours that are evenly spaced around the colour wheel

- Monochromatic : Colours derived from a single base hue and extended using its shades

 

3. 60-30-10 Rule

Once you have selected the colour scheme (see previous part), you will need to determinate the proportions of each colours in the room.

According to the 60 30 10 formula, one colour should dominate by covering 60% of the surfaces (dominant colour), while an accent colour would occupy 30% of the room (Chairs, wall art, rugs). The remaining 10% is usually reserved for accessories (rugs, pillows,..).

4. Examples of colour combinaisons

 

5. Examples of colour combinaisons for specific styles.