Not sure about colour schemes? These basic colour principles will help guide your decisions if you’re thinking about redecorating your home.
WORDS Gina Dionisio PHOTOS Johanna Lehtinen (Copenhagen Apartment); Paris Brummer (Fish Hoek House); Dook (Montagu Home); Supplied
Understanding the fundamentals of colour can make all the difference before embarking on an interior design project. We spoke to interior design professionals Jeremy Volkmann, owner of BHC School of Design, and Hendre Bloem for their expert advice on using colour to create a space that feels cohesive, stylish, and uniquely yours.
1. Choose the Right Colour Palette
The foundation of every beautifully designed room lies in its colour palette. “The use of colour can be so personal, and the psychology behind how a person interacts with the design plays an important role,” says Jeremy. The key is to determine the room’s focal point:
- For bold walls: Choose accent colours that highlight the architectural features or create a dramatic backdrop.
- For statement furniture: Opt for neutral wall colours to let your furniture shine.
By establishing a clear focus, you ensure all the elements in your room complement one another seamlessly.
2. Balance Bold and Neutral Colours
“I look at the space as a whole because everything from the furniture colour to rugs, feature lights and even artwork can play a role in determining the wall colour,” explains Hendre. Striking the perfect balance between bold and neutral tones is an art form:
- Bold colours: Add vibrancy and personality.
- Neutral shades: Ground the room and provide a soothing contrast.
This harmony ensures your space remains cohesive while reflecting your style.
3. Layer Textures for Depth
One hallmark of professional interior design is the thoughtful layering of textures. This approach adds depth and interest to your space. Combine:
- Soft fabrics like velvet or linen.
- Rugged materials like leather or wood.
- Metallic finishes for a touch of glamour.
“The trick is to layer fabrics, textiles and paint that are all relatively similar in hue,” says Hendre.
4. Understand Colour Schemes
“Before choosing the colours you’d like to use in your interiors, it’s important to understand the fundamentals of different colour schemes – specific combinations of colours, compiled to form harmonious spaces,” says Jeremy. To master this, use the colour wheel to your advantage:
- Harmonious schemes: Use colours adjacent to one another on the wheel for a calm and peaceful vibe.
- Complementary schemes: Pair opposite colours on the wheel for bold contrast and energy.
These techniques help bring personality and purpose to your interiors.
5. Apply the 60/30/10 Rule
Proportion is everything in design, and the 60/30/10 rule provides a foolproof formula for achieving harmony. Here’s how it works:
- 60%: Dominant colour – covers the largest area, such as walls or large furniture.
- 30%: Secondary colour – used for upholstery, rugs, or curtains.
- 10%: Accent colour – reserved for accessories like cushions, artwork, or decorative objects.
“This timeless guideline for compiling a colour scheme involves the use of proportion when deciding on colours for a space, and results in harmony,” says Jeremy.
Ready to Learn More?
Want to dive deeper into the world of interior design? Our 8-week VISI X BHC Interior Decorating Core Principles online course is designed for aspiring interior decorators who want to master the essentials, including:
- Space planning
- Colour theory
- Design elements and principles
Study Anytime, Anywhere
Our on-demand model makes it easier to fit learning into your schedule. Select your preferred start date from the dropdown calendar at checkout and begin your journey to becoming a design pro.
Don’t forget to sign up to our weekly newsletter for the latest architecture and design news.
