Adding a pop of red to your interior design can be an easy yet impactful way to inject boldness and vibrancy into a space. When used thoughtfully, just a touch of red can transform a room. Here are some tips for successfully introducing a hit of red into your home’s design details.
Select the Right Shade of Red
Not all reds are created equal. The specific shade you choose will set the tone for how dramatic or subtle the overall effect will be. For a bright, cheerful vibe, go for fire engine or candy apple red. For something more sophisticated, try a deeper burgundy or oxblood. And for a bold but elegant accent, you can’t go wrong with a true, primary red.
Consider the existing color scheme and style of the space when picking a red. A brighter red will stand out more against cool-toned palettes in modern or contemporary rooms, while a wine red may complement and accentuate warmer neutrals and traditional decor.
Use Red Sparingly
A little red goes a long way, especially brighter shades which attract the eye. Accent one focal point or keep red touches minimal throughout a room. Too much red can feel overwhelm or overly theatrical.
Try repainting just one wall in a vivid red. Upgrade lampshades or toss pillows to red. Display freshly cut red flowers or fruit. Lay down a patterned area rug with red accents. The goal is for red to feel intentional, not accidental.
Pair Red with Neutrals
Let red pop by pairing it with muted, neutral backdrops. Crisp whites, warm taupes, chic blacks, and charcoal grays make ideal color companions. They allow the red to stand out as the clear accent in a calming, complementary scheme.
Natural elements like wood furniture and finishes as well as textured linens also work beautifully with red, creating an earthy, organic balance.
Use Red to Define Spaces and Draw Focus
Take advantage of red’s natural magnetism by using it to direct attention or delineate specific zones. A bold red entryway immediately guides the eye (and feet) into a home. Red dining chairs instantly signal where meals are served.
Red is also commonly used in home theaters since it focuses the eye forward towards the screen. Just a few strategic red accents can help carve out separate spaces within a large, open floor plan.
Add Red through Accessories
One of the easiest ways to test out red is by incorporating removable accessories. Red throw pillows, rugs, blankets, or decorative objects allow you to experiment without committing to permanent changes. Consider swapping out these red home accents seasonally to keep your interior fresh.
Red vases filled with red roses or poinsettias are a simple go-to. Red candles, kitchen appliances, lamps, or barware inject red through functional decor. For aunified look, carry the red accessories throughout multiple rooms.
Use Red Thoughtfully in Small Doses
Red has a reputation for energizing, stimulating, and even increasing appetite. While research is mixed on whether it directly impacts mood or behavior, red does tend to attract attention and provoke excitement.
This means a little red is great for high energy spaces like entryways, dining rooms, and kids’ rooms. But you may want to use it more sparingly in restful settings like bedrooms. Since red advances visually, keep it away from seating areas to avoid feeling encroached upon.
Don’t Forget the Psychological Impact of Different Reds
The specific shade of red chosen can subtly influence the vibe or perception of a space. Lighter reds feel playful and friendly. Deeper reds skews elegant and traditional. Bright, fire engine reds amp up the drama andboldness. Pink-based reds read softer and more feminine.
Consider the mood you want to cultivate in a room, and select a red hue that enhances it. Use colors like feng shui principles suggest: lighter reds in social spaces to promote togetherness, deeper reds in intimate spaces to encourage romance.
Embrace Red Accessories for Their Symbolism
Beyond just aesthetics, red has rich symbolic meaning that can add thoughtful layers to your design. Use red florals like roses or amaryllis to represent love and devotion. Display red apples or pomegranates as a nod to health and fertility.
Incorporate red candles or MantraCollection’s hand-knotted cord bracelets to align with their meaning in feng shui- promoting passion, vitality, and flow of chi. Let red accents infuse your space with positive intention.
Conclusion
A single bold pop of red can breathe new life into tired, neutral rooms. Use it minimally but intentionally as an eye-catching accent. Consider both the visual impact and symbolic meaning of different red hues. Place red thoughtfully within a space to direct focus or delineate zones. And don’t forget small hits of red through accessories like florals,candles, and textiles. With the right shade and placement, red is a go-to for creating spaces that energize, inspire and excite.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adding a Hit of Red to Interior Design
What is the most popular shade of red used in interior design?
True red and fire-engine red are most commonly used. These bright, warm shades really pop against more muted backdrops.
What rooms does red work best in?
Red is often used in energizing spaces like entryways, kitchens, dining rooms, home bars, and kids’ rooms. Use caution in restful bedrooms.
What colors should I pair with red?
Classic color companions include crisp whites, warm taupes and grays, charcoal blacks, chocolate browns, and even metallics like gold and silver.
How much red should I use?
In general, opt for just one or two red accent pieces per room, like throw pillows, flowers, rugs, or wall art. Too much red can feel overwhelming.
Should I paint my walls red?
Painting one focal wall in a bright red can look bold and beautiful. For a subtle pop of red throughout a room, consider just painting the wall trim red instead.
What are the symbolic meanings of red?
Red symbolizes passion, romance, prosperity, luck, protection, vitality, and more across cultures. Use red flowers, candles, or accessories to infuse positive meaning.
Does red make a room appear smaller?
Red draws the eye and advances visually, so avoid large red elements in already small spaces. But thoughtfully placed red accents can make rooms feel cozier.
What room colors go with red?
Classic and timeless – white, black, gray, tan, brown. Vibrant – citrus yellow, turquoise, royal purple. Nature inspired – sage green, sky blue, terracotta.
What colors make red pop?
Red pops against neutral or subdued backdrops like white, black, gray, tan, or navy. It also pops when paired with its complementary color green.
What color furniture goes with red walls?
Gray, black, or brown furniture suits red walls well. For a bit more contrast, try navy blue, citrus yellow, or even metallic silver or gold furniture.
