Section 1: How to Abide by and Break the Rules

Understanding the Standard Rules of Color in Interior Design

Interior design has some fundamental rules that act as the foundation for creating beautiful and balanced spaces. These guidelines are arbitrary and rooted in how we perceive and interact with color. Let’s explore these principles:

A. The 60-30-10 Rule: This rule is a cornerstone of interior design, promoting a balanced use of color. It suggests that in any space, we should use:

• 60% Dominant Color: This foundation of your space is often applied to walls or large furniture pieces. It sets the stage for the rest of your color scheme.
• 30% Secondary Color: It supports the dominant color and introduces depth. It’s typically found in upholstery, curtains, or an accent wall.
• 10% Accent Color: Small decorative elements with this color add flair and reflect your personal style, giving life to the room with vibrant pops.

B. Contrast and Balance: Contrast is the art of creating visual interest by pairing colors that oppose each other on the color wheel or differ in brightness and saturation. For instance, offsetting a bright, warm orange with a cool, dark navy provides a lively effect.

Balance is about the even distribution of visual weight so that no color dominates. Achieving balance can involve symmetrical or asymmetrical color arrangements. You may also want to consider the size of various elements in the room.

C. Color Harmony: It’s a concept of combining colors in a way that is pleasing to the eye. This often involves using colors that are adjacent on the color wheel or different shades of the same color. It creates a cohesive and tranquil atmosphere.

Knowing these rules, we can confidently begin experimenting boldly with more adventurous design choices.

Famous Interior Designers Known for Their Rule-Breaking Styles

Some designers have become renowned for mastering and then creatively disrupting these rules. Kelly Wearstler is celebrated for her dynamic use of color, often forgoing the 60-30-10 rule and favoring a more varied approach. Her designs feature a rich array of focal points, such as a room that combines geometric patterns on the floor with floral wallpaper and striking metallic finishes, achieving an eclectic yet cohesive space. You may want to read the article “It’s a Blurred Boundary’: Top Interior Designer Kelly Wearstler on How She Blends Art and Design to Create Spaces You Want to Be In” showcasing her design choices.

Jonathan Adler is synonymous with joy and whimsy in design. He frequently pairs bold and unexpected color combinations, challenging traditional color harmony. His use of vivid pink with a deep navy exemplifies a playful yet sophisticated approach. This results in vibrant and full-of-life spaces. Consider reading more about Jonathan Adler in the article “Jonathan Adler’s Manhattan apartment is an explosion of colour and fun.”

Applying Rule-Breaking in Design

Inspired by these two design icons, we can apply a similar innovative spirit to our spaces. Consider the potential for creating multiple focal points in a room. A dramatic artwork can harmonize with a patterned rug, each complementing the other.

When blending patterns and textures, it’s important to consider their scale and relationship. A large wall print can be balanced with smaller patterns on accessories, creating a layered effect that captivates and delights.

Daring to use contrasting colors can bring a fresh and modern feel to a room. A splash of neon green against a muted gray can transform the space, adding a burst of energy and contemporary flair.

In the next sections, you’ll learn how to bend and even break the traditional rules of color. You’ll understand that the most impactful spaces reflect individual style and creativity. As we progress, remember that your home is your canvas, and with these insights, you’re well on your way to crafting your distinctive masterpiece.

References

1. Albers, J. (2013). Interaction of Color: 50th Anniversary Edition. Yale University Press.
2. Eiseman, L., & Recker, K. (2011). Pantone: The 20th Century in Color. Chronicle Books.
3. Holtzschue, L. (2017). Understanding Color: An Introduction for Designers. Wiley.
4. Wearstler, K. (2004). Modern Glamour: The Art of Unexpected Style. .
5. Adler, J. (2012). 100 Ways to Happy Chic Your Life. Union Square & Co.

Further Readings

1. Itten, J. (1970). The Elements of Color: A Treatise on the Color System of Johannes Itten Based on His Book The Art of Color. Van Nostrand Reinhold.
2. Stewart, T., & Simmons, S. (2019). The New Color Mixing Companion: Explore and Create Fresh and Vibrant Color Palettes with Paint, Collage, and Mixed Media. Quarry Books.
3. Blakeney, J. (2015). The New Bohemians: Cool and Collected Homes. Stewart, Tabori & Chang.
4. Harrison, V. (2018). Happy by Design: How to create a home that boosts your health & happiness. Pavilion Books.