The 60-30-10 rule is a simple and effective way to create a balanced colour scheme in your home. It involves using 60% as the dominant colour, 30% as the secondary colour, and 10% as the accent colour. This approach ensures your space feels harmonious and well put together. Accent colours are great for making your walls stand out and creating a focal point in the room. Whether you choose bold, dark, or subtle colours, accents add that extra bit of visual interest. To get the right balance, use lighter accent colours with darker walls, or choose deep tones to complement light, bright walls.

Use Accent Colours to Add Depth and Mood to Your Space

Incorporating accent colours into your home can add depth and dimension, especially in spaces with minimal architectural detail. They help break up large, open floor plans or high-ceilinged rooms, creating a more balanced and intimate atmosphere. Choosing the right paint colour can also set the mood of a room – for instance, olive green can bring a sense of calm and tranquillity, making it perfect for spaces meant for relaxation.

1. Bold Black Accents

A black accent wall can add striking depth and flow to any living space, becoming a bold focal point. Whether in the living room, bedroom, kitchen, or dining area, black suits all rooms, giving them a timeless and sophisticated look. In spaces with less natural light, black can create a cosy, intimate feel. Pairing black with white is always a safe bet, making the space feel brighter and more relaxing. For something different, combine black with pastel pink for a unique and stylish touch that creates a classy vibe, perfect for hanging out with friends.

costume green

AC 2120A

brilliant white

1001

japanese curry

tempest sea

AC 2107A

artist's impression

N 1864T

Berry Scent

great seascape

AC 2106A

lavender haze

3023

Berry Scent

2. Terracotta Brown Accents

Terracotta brown adds elegance and depth to neutral spaces, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in areas like living rooms and dining rooms. This earthy hue brings a sophisticated touch, helping to make your home feel cosy and relaxed. It works well as a backdrop for furniture such as sofas, armchairs, and wooden shelves, adding character and charm. Terracotta pairs beautifully with colours like dark blue, green, pink, black, and neutrals. For an extra layer of warmth, combine it with creamy whites or taupe tones, and pair it with wooden furniture for a balanced, welcoming look.

fertile earth

AC 2145A

wet moccasin

wet moccasin

R 1385T

brown bailey

AC 2141A

abacadabra

N 2034P

mocha magic

1863

terra peach

YO 1229P

affogato

AC 2134A

nude shades

hazelnut haze

1870

dandelion desire

1003

soprano

3. Mustard Yellow Accents

Mustard yellow, with its warm gold undertones, adds a touch of elegance to any room. This vibrant colour works especially well in spaces that receive plenty of natural light, making them feel lively and stylish. To create a cosy and cohesive atmosphere, pair mustard yellow with brown, orange, or soft pink. For a more striking look, consider combining it with blue-greens for a bold contrast that remains sophisticated. Mustard yellow also pairs beautifully with neutral colours like white and grey, helping to balance the vibrancy and creating an inviting, contemporary feel.

florist yellow

AC 2052A

cactus cooler

0444

olive overture

1854

celery seed

BGG 1731

deep safron

AC 2051A

tigerstripe

YO 1232A

yellow blaze

AC 2053A

black

144

silver flare

magnolia blossom

R 1263P

orange kisses

AC 2060A

Berry Scent

OW 2189P

4. Dark Navy Blue Accents

Dark navy blue brings a dramatic yet sophisticated touch to any room, adding both visual interest and a cosy ambiance. This rich hue works well in spaces like home offices, where it can be paired with wall art to create a stylish and inspiring environment. In bedrooms, combining white walls with a navy blue accent creates a bright, open feel while still maintaining a sense of warmth. For an elegant finish, pair navy blue with metallic accents such as gold or silver fixtures and lamps, enhancing the overall atmosphere of your space.

rhapsody

AC 2094A

laid back

OW 1056P

Berry Scent

fluid blue

AC 2101A

oak parquet

N 1870D

Berry Scent

blue mercury

AC 2099A

natural cedar

N 1878T

newtowne brown

N 1890A

colbalt blue

AC 2100A

burgundy

R 1351A

Berry Scent

Conclusion

Incorporating accent colours into your home is a simple yet effective way to enhance your living spaces, adding depth, warmth, and personality. Whether you choose bold hues like black or navy blue, earthy tones such as terracotta and mustard yellow, or timeless neutrals, accent colours can transform any room into a more inviting and stylish environment. With Nippon Paint’s extensive range of colours, you can easily find the perfect shades to bring your vision to life, by carefully selecting the right tones and pairings to create a space that reflects your unique style and mood. Remember, the key is to balance your accent colours with the overall design, ensuring a harmonious and welcoming atmosphere throughout your home.

See a colour you like in real life?

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Interior design concept displayed on a laptop featuring Nippon Paint color swatches: Irish Charm, Pitter Patter, and Bright Flame, set against a modern kitchen backdrop with sleek cabinetry and stylish decor.