Red is often considered a daunting color, something almost impossible to approach as if it will take over any space. But with the approach of winter, whenever it does come around, I feel a pull to all things warm, including the many saturated shades of red. To be honest, I love utilizing red as a statement within a room, whether on a small or large scale. Red comes in all shapes, sizes, and shades. While tones of blues and neutrals are often considered safe colors, here are a few helpful tips and insider tricks on how to inject pops of red into a space.
Complement It
I don't mean to tell the color it looks nice (even though it does!) I'm talking about pairing it with its complementary color. Red and green often get a bad rep, but when the right tones and shades are mixed the result is fantastical. It can look earthy almost to the point of jewel-toned, as pictured here, or it can come off as more lighthearted and whimsical. While this is a large-scale example of using these complementary colors, the same idea can be used on a smaller scale.
Photo Credit: Red5studio
Color Drenching
Perhaps this is the most maximalist of approaches on this list, as the name suggests. Drenching a room in a singular color, preferably in a single shade. Pictured here is a bedroom enveloped in a luxurious cherry red, from the doors to the paneling, ceiling, and walls. The high gloss door and moldings provide visual interest without compromising the feeling of being blanketed by red. Varying tones are then present in the bedding, rug, and other spots throughout the room.
Photo Credit: Jeweled Interiors
Look to Nature
If you are feeling uninspired on how to bring red into your space, look no further than the great outdoors. From red-toned plants to stone that looks almost fake, sometimes the most magical shades of red appear in nature. Indoor plants like Red Anthurium and Red Vriesea Bromeliad bring subtle hues of red and liven up even the most boring of spaces. Stone accents, which can be in the form of a small decorative object or a small piece of furniture like an end table, are an impactful way to include red in a space.
Photo Credit: CB2
Spice Up Your Kitchen
Remember, spice can be added to more than just food. Did you know that red is said to stir up an appetite? Well it does, and now you do. Color psychology states that humans experience a biological response to the color red which induces a rise in blood pressure and heart rate, stimulating metabolism and the urge to eat.
Photo Credit: @homewithid
Outfit the Walls
Artwork is a way of expressing oneself through a non-verbal form. Walls are not complete once they are covered with paint, wallpaper, etc. Art has a way of tying all the elements of a room together, or it can become the focal point of the room by creating a stark contrast with the rest of the room. Here, the bold and modern large format canvas stands out against the neutral and more traditional room.
Photo Credit: Etsy
Accent Wall
Rebrand the accent wall. When I say accent wall, I do not mean just slapping some paint on one wall. (though that works beautifully in many scenarios) But with so many choices out there was settle on that? There is a bountiful amount of wallpaper options, ranging from \ natural grass cloths to luxe silks. Or a red toned limewash paint that will not only bring color to your space but depth and texture as well.
Photo Credit: Pinterest
It’s all in the Details
What’s that saying, accents speak louder than words. Oh, maybe it’s actions. Well, accents speak loudly too. Similarly to the artwork, small details become much larger when they stand out from their environment. Candles, pillows, throw blankets, amongst many other trinkets and items have become the go-to decorative elements so why not have some fun with it? It can be burgundy, cherry red, bright or dull red, or a mix of all. The best part is that it is all up to you.
Photo Credit: Living Bright Interiors
Highlight the Structural Elements
So often we get caught up in the ease of choosing white for trim and forget that this is a great opportunity for creativity. A can of red paint can do wonders when applied to door/window frames, base moldings, or structural columns. It defines the room without becoming the most overwhelming feature.
Photo Credit: Pintrest
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Born and raised in New York, Shana Beck is an interior designer and writer with a degree from the New York School of Interior Design. Her work focuses on blending design principles with insightful commentary, offering a fresh perspective on trends and innovations in the field. With a passion for writing and a deep understanding of aesthetics, she aims to make complex ideas accessible and engaging, bringing a fun and cool approach to professional content. You can reach her at 845.825.1537 or shanabeck7@yahoo.com
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