Using Too Many or Too Few Colours in Home Interiors
Colour is one of the most powerful tools in interior design. It sets the mood, defines space, and brings personality to your home. But when used without balance, it can either overwhelm or underwhelm a room. Let’s explore what happens when you use too many or too few colours in your interiors—and how to get the balance just right.
1. The Problem with Too Many Colours
Overloading your home with too many colours—especially bold or contrasting ones—can make the space feel chaotic, disjointed, and visually noisy.
- Different colours in every room create a lack of flow.
- Clashing tones can cause visual fatigue.
- Accent walls in every room dilute the concept of a ‘focal point’.
Fix: Stick to a consistent palette across the home. Limit bold accent colours to one or two per space, and repeat them in subtle ways (cushions, decor, art).
2. The Problem with Too Few Colours
On the flip side, using only one or two colours throughout the house can make it feel bland, sterile, and lacking in personality. It’s a common issue in overly minimalist spaces.
- All-white rooms may look clinical or cold.
- Lack of contrast makes decor elements disappear.
- No visual interest leads to quickly losing appeal.
Fix: Layer shades of the same base tone or add neutral contrasts like grey, beige, or wood. Introduce texture through fabrics, flooring, or wall panels.
3. Finding the Right Balance
The golden rule in interior design is the 60-30-10 rule:
- 60% – Dominant colour (walls or large furniture).
- 30% – Secondary colour (curtains, rugs, accent furniture).
- 10% – Accent colour (cushions, artwork, accessories).
This approach brings harmony and ensures no colour dominates or disappears entirely.
4. Tips for Choosing the Right Colour Scheme
- Start with a neutral base and layer gradually.
- Draw colour inspiration from nature, art, or a fabric you love.
- Use online tools or paint brand apps to test combinations virtually.
- Test paint swatches on walls in both natural and artificial light.
Conclusion
A well-balanced colour scheme elevates the overall interior experience. It brings continuity, depth, and elegance to your home. Whether you're someone who loves earthy tones or bold pops of colour, the key is moderation and harmony. Use colour intentionally—and let your space speak your style.
Design Tip: Repeating the same 2–3 colours in different ways across your home makes everything feel connected and thoughtfully designed.