Use the 60-30-10 Rule-One of the biggest problems homeowners face when decorating is often not what color to use, but where to use it. This is where the 60-30-10 Rule comes into play. If you look closely at well-designed rooms you will notice that the rooms you like the most are almost invariably divided into percentages of 60-30-10. Keep in mind that the overall theme is in the 60 percent hue, which unifies the coloration. The 30 percent provides visual interest and the 10 percent, is meant to provide that little bit of sparkle. So, when decorating a particular room, you should divide the colors into percentages:

• 60% of a dominant color


• 30% of a secondary color


• 10% of an accent color


• Translated to a room setting, this typically means:


• 60% of the room's color is the walls


• 30% of the room's color is the upholstery


• 10% of the room's color is an accent piece or a floral arrangement

• Complementary Color Scheme-When using this type of color scheme it is important to understand that complementary colors, are across from each other on the color wheel, such as red and green, blue and yellow, or purple and orange. Rooms that are decorated with a complementary color scheme, tend to provide a clear separation of colors, and often are more formal, and more visually challenging. Decorators generally recommend that complementary color schemes should be used in the more formal areas of the home, such as the living room, or dining room.
• Analogous Color Scheme-When using an analogous scheme, you should choose colors that are next to each other on the color wheel, such as yellow and green, blue and violet, or red and orange. Keep in mind that rooms that are using an analogous color scheme typically are more casual, restful and muted in terms of coloration. Decorating experts advise that when using this type of color scheme it is best used in the more informal areas of the home. Family rooms, dens and bedrooms (places where you're searching for rest and recovery from the day) look and "feel" great in analogous colors.
• Don't Forget the Black-This is a tried and true color element that is used by many of the top designers. Simply by adding a black element (a black box, lampshade, picture frame or other accent) you will clarify and enhance all the other colors in the space.
• Create a color flow-This is a fairly easy step that can have a big impact. In order to create a flow of colors from one room to another, you will simply choose a color you're using in one room, and restate it in a different way in an adjoining space. Keep in mind that you can use the color in larger or smaller degrees, as you move about the home. For example, that same green from the living room sofa can also translate as, lampshades in the family room or place mats in the kitchen.
• Finally, don't be afraid to try what appeals to you. Remember, that your home should be a reflection of your personality! So go ahead and try that unique paint color, remember that its only color and you can always change it when you want to!