Master the 60-30-10 Color Rule

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding the 60 30 ten rule
3. Implementing the 60 30 ten rule in mobile UI design
   • Using 60% neutral or base color
   • Choosing a primary color
   • Selecting a secondary color
   • Incorporating a call to action color
4. Examples of the 60 30 ten rule in mobile UI design
   • Evaluating before and after scenarios
   • Exploring different color palettes
   • Examining various design implementations
5. Conclusion

Using Color in Mobile UI Design: The 60 30 ten Rule

In the world of mobile UI design, the careful utilization of color is crucial to achieving a mature, seamless, and well-thought-out interface. It's essential to strike a balance between visual appeal and functionality, avoiding the pitfalls of obnoxious and distracting color schemes. One effective guideline that can help designers navigate the complex realm of color is the 60 30 ten rule.

Understanding the 60 30 ten rule

The 60 30 ten rule provides designers with a structure for using color effectively within their designs. It suggests allocating percentages to different color components to create a harmonious composition. By adhering to this rule, designers can achieve a balanced representation of neutral, primary, secondary, and call-to-action colors.

Implementing the 60 30 ten rule in mobile UI design

To implement the 60 30 ten rule in mobile UI design, designers need to consider different aspects of color usage.

Using 60% neutral or base color

The rule advises allocating 60% of the color palette to neutral or base colors. These colors serve as a foundation for the design and often include whites, creams, or subdued shades. By using the neutral or base color for the majority of the interface, designers ensure a visually pleasing and cohesive design.

Choosing a primary color

Designers should select a primary color that accounts for 30% of the color palette. This color might align with the brand's identity or serve as a dominant color within the interface. While important, the primary color should not overshadow the call-to-action elements, which will be discussed later in this guide.

Selecting a secondary color

The secondary color plays a supporting role in the overall color scheme, occupying 10% of the color palette. This color should complement the primary color and help guide the user's attention to specific areas of the interface.

Incorporating a call to action color

The call to action color is critical for drawing users' attention to interactive elements that prompt engagement, such as buttons or links. This color should be utilized sparingly, making up only 10% of the color palette. By limiting its usage, designers ensure that these elements stand out and attract users' attention effectively.

Examples of the 60 30 ten rule in mobile UI design

Let's explore some examples that demonstrate the successful implementation of the 60 30 ten rule in mobile UI design.

Evaluating before and after scenarios

One designer showcased the transformation achieved by implementing the 60 30 ten rule. The initial UI design exhibited excessive and distracting use of color, resulting in a cluttered and overwhelming interface. However, with the application of the rule, the design underwent significant improvements, featuring a more neutralized and visually pleasing color palette.

Exploring different color palettes

Designers have adapted the 60 30 ten rule to create unique and visually compelling color palettes. While effectively adhering to the rule's principles, they introduced slight variations in the hues or gradients of the colors, adding depth and personality to their designs.

Examining various design implementations

Designers have embraced the 60 30 ten rule in numerous ways. Some have inverted the color distribution, making the bright color occupy 60% of the palette, while others have explored the rule within dark interface designs. By adapting the rule to suit their creative vision, designers have proven its flexibility and effectiveness.

Conclusion

The 60 30 ten rule offers a valuable guideline for mobile UI designers seeking to achieve sophisticated and cohesive color schemes. By allocating percentages to different color components, designers can effectively balance the usage of neutral, primary, secondary, and call-to-action colors. While the rule serves as an excellent starting point, designers are encouraged to experiment and adapt it to their specific design needs. By doing so, they can create visually stunning interfaces that captivate users while maintaining usability and functionality.