Simple tricks to find the right paint colours for your home
2 Minute Read
Summary
- Apply the 60‑30‑10 rule to balance dominant, secondary, and accent paint colours effectively.
- Choose paint colours by pulling coordinated hues from a room’s largest existing feature.
- Test paint samples on walls in natural and artificial light before final selection.
A fresh coat of paint is one of the most affordable and effective ways to update your home. But with hundreds of swatches lining the walls of every hardware store, finding the right shade can feel overwhelming. Where do you start?
For inspiration, look to Dulux’s 2026 Colour of the Year, Pine Forest. This lush, grounding green is versatile. Try it as an accent wall, on a front door, or in pillows and artwork. Paired with warm woods or crisp neutrals, it brings the outdoors in and keeps your home feeling fresh and timeless.
Whether you love a bold trend or classic comfort, picking paint colours should be fun and personal. Use these expert-backed tricks to narrow your choices and create a space that feels uniquely yours.
The sixty-thirty-ten rule
The sixty-thirty-ten rule is a designer favourite for effortless harmony. Imagine your room as a palette: dedicate 60 per cent to your main colour, 30 per cent to a supporting shade, and 10 per cent to a punchy accent. This simple formula delivers a polished, pulled-together look every time.
Start with your main colour, such as walls, large rugs or flooring, which should cover about 60 per cent of the room. Next, add a complementary secondary shade (30 per cent) in elements like furniture, curtains or statement décor.
Finish with 10 per cent in bold accent tones, such as throw pillows, vases or lamps, to make the whole space pop. Don’t be afraid to play. Small accessories are easy to swap if you want a fresh look for a new season.
Start with a key piece
If you’re starting from scratch, let your room’s most striking piece, maybe an area rug, dramatic sofa or favourite artwork, inspire your palette. Building from something you already love helps ensure your space feels cohesive and personal.
Pull colours from that hero piece and echo them in other elements, such as curtains, throw blankets or even painted trim. For example, if your area rug has a striking blue, you could use the same shade on a wall or in accent pillows. This designer trick makes every element feel intentional and beautifully connected.
Explore the colour wheel
The colour wheel is your secret weapon. Analogous shades, those sitting side by side on the wheel, create a soft, harmonious vibe. Complementary colours, opposites on the wheel, bring bold, energetic contrast. If you want a serene retreat, stick with similar tones. For drama, go for high-contrast.
Craving a soothing retreat? Pastel tones like soft blues and creamy neutrals always feel fresh. Want more drama? Pair forest green with deep terracotta for eye-catching contrast. If you’re unsure about bold shades, test them in a powder room or hallway before going big.
Don't forget about lighting
Lighting can make or break your colour choice. Always test paint swatches on your wall and check them from morning to evening. What looks beige in the store could turn rosy or golden at home. Natural light, artificial bulbs and even lampshades all play a part. If your room is short on sunlight, lighter paint shades and warm white LED bulbs can help keep things bright and inviting.
Ready to start painting?
CAA Members save 25 per cent on regular-priced Dulux manufactured paints and stains, 10 per cent off the regular price of most tools and applicators and earn 3 per cent back in CAA Dollars.
