Decorating with Red

Red is the color of love. It evokes energy, passion and warmth — and who doesn’t want to feel those things when walking into a room? Sure, it’s a daring choice, but it’s a statement worth making. It’s all in the way you use it. For inspiration (and a little confidence) in injecting this vivacious color into your space, check out our tips for decorating with red.

Make It a Conversation-Starter

Because of its ability to stimulate our appetites and conversation, red is a natural choice for the dining room. Yet it can be easy to go overboard (think of a room painted entirely in brick red). Here, we use an indoor-outdoor rug to add instant warmth and to define the space. We pick up the same color in the chairs, upholstered in Sydney Berry Fabric by the Yard for extra graphic punch. Pairing red with a zinc-topped table and streamlined pendants keeps it from feeling overly traditional while the warm, neutral hues of the cabinet and walls keep it cozy.

Mix It with Patterns

Red plaid is a forever classic. But if it feels too stuffy for you, pair it with a crisp stripe for a fresh update. The combination is just the right dose to make a room pop, especially when you counter the weight of the patterns with a solid, such as our pure white sofa.

Tone It Down

If you find red to be a little too intense, compromise with coral, and pair it with gray to temper the hue. The chic lattice pattern of our Merrick Coral Fabric by the Yard covers the banquet, bringing warmth and zest to this cozy nook without overwhelming the space. The graphic rug is a great equalizer while the poppy print repeats the coral color for balance.

Repeat in Small Doses

If you want to go a more subtle route, use accessories to sprinkle color throughout the room. The repetition of red in this living room creates a soothing visual rhythm that’s pleasing to the eye. We’re drawn to each red accessory as we take it all in. Throw pillows, a lamp, a bouquet of flowers and books are all great ways to bring in accent color. Our chevron Beckett Rug even brings red to the floor, and ample light keeps it all in check.

Spotlight a Cherished Piece

White walls and furnishings, high ceilings and natural light put a welcome focus on colorful pieces. The San Marino Secretary in Chianti Red makes a striking addition to this living room, as does the red upholstered footstool and complementary throw pillows.

Spice Up Your Bedroom

Because red is energizing, it’s not a color that’s typically associated with the bedroom. But as long as it’s used sparingly and in combination with neutrals and dark wood tones, it can be the just the right amount to reinvigorate a tired bedroom. The mix of patterns in the patchwork quilt and upholstered bench works here, because the rust red hue unites the two.

Pair with a Complementary Color

You know what they say: opposites attract. The red accents in this room work so well, because the wall is painted a complementary green — and the end result is simply stunning. And one last tip? Throw in something unexpected, which is precisely why we love the red lantern so much!

For more design inspiration, visit our Pinterest Boards, or find more gorgeous rooms in our Photo Gallery.