DECORATING WITH RED
Today we shake up the winter blues a little by focusing on how to decorate with the color red. Are you scared yet?! Don’t be. Whether you are all in to the idea or just want to dip your toe in a little, we have plenty of different levels of intensity to consider. You may want to bring in some touches of red in honor of the upcoming Valentine’s day holiday or focus on permanently integrating this invigorating color. We have options!
by Gianna Marzella
January 21, 2021
Photo Credit: Entrance Makleri
Take a look at this bedroom, spotted on Coco Lapin’s blog.
This is a simple approach to introducing red in a non-committal way. If you have a neutral envelope, adding seasonal touches of color is a great way to keep the variety in your space without having to make large changes. A simple red throw blanket and pillow stand out against this desaturated gray background. We love the approach and see this as the perfect way to start with small touches of red. Another reason this is a great way to work with red is the actual hue. It is not lipstick red (not that there would be anything wrong this that). As such, it is a little easier on the eye for those who find bold reds too aggressive. Try searching for pieces labeled as oxblood, cranberry, burgundy, cinnamon. See if anything speaks to you.
Photo credit - Anson Smart
Ready for something bolder? Consider a more permanent addition like this garnet womb chair, as seen on homes to love.
This contemporary and inviting space, by Sarah Davidson Interiors, features a mix of warm and cool neutral tones. They set a calming but stylish stage for the star of the show, this velvet stunner. The lounge chair brings energy and drama to the space without overpowering it.
Photo credit: Haus Dekoration X
If you feel ready to make a bolder statement, take the color to the wall. Or in this case, even onto the ceiling.
Red brings some drama. We love the idea of using it in a transitional space, like the hallway. This creates maximum impact for short periods of time. Maybe hanging out in a red living room would be too much for too long, but a walk through this saturated area would be make an often-forgotten occurrence, transitioning from one space to the next, an exciting experience onto itself. This design, by Kelly Behun commands your attention in the best possible way. Tour the entire home as seen on Elle décor.
Another way to bring some red into your home is through art. We love this timeless dining room, featured by Melanie Lissack interiors.
The mix of bright whites and cognac hues create warmth and depth. Each piece is sculptural and feels important, but there is no doubt, the art steals the show. We love how it is repeated through the mirror as well.
Photo credit – Richard Powers
Here is another beautiful example of enveloping yourself in this magnificent hue.
Photo Credit: Lasse Flode
This space, called “the sauna”, is found within the Headquarters of Bakken & Baeck, designed by Kvistad, a design duo based in Oslo, Norway.
This alcove is on the softer side, as it is slightly less saturated than our previous examples, but it more than makes up for it with its all-encompassing application of color. Everything here is tone on tone and it makes for a powerful statement. The sinuous curves further enhance the feeling of warmth and embrace. Click here to tour the rest of this office and see more examples of the clever way Kvistad approached color in a tone on tone way.
Need help finding that perfect red paint color? Here are a few articles to get you inspired.
House Beautiful -Shades of Red
The Spruce - Top Red Paint Colors
Domino - Best Red Paint Colors
Whether you want to start small or go all in with RED, there is an approach for everyone. Wishing you all a Happy Valentine’s day!
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