Is Decorating with Red a Good Idea?

Some individuals may wonder if decorating with red is a good idea, especially if they are used to decorating with a neutral or lighter color palette. However, red can be put to good use, whether you’re using it as an accent color or as a complement to a modern, traditional, country or transitional decor.

Opting for Red as an Accent

Red can often be used as an accent, regardless of the type of decorating style. Make use of red in pillows or for lighting. For example, use a red pendant light in a kitchen with, say, white cabinets and black-and-white checkered flooring. Include an accent chair in red with a white or black leather couch for a contemporary theme. Include the flamboyant hue in a traditional setting by using it in an Oriental styled rug. When used as an accent, red works well with neutral tones, such as gray, tan, cream or black.

Using Red in Contemporary Decors

If you want to include red in your decorating scheme, make sure you select the appropriate shade. For instance, in contemporary decorating, it’s best to use a vivid, bright shade of red. In other words, accent your furnishings with pure red. Include the color in a rug or pillow, or highlight it in a piece of artwork. You can even make it the focus of your furnishings in the selection of a couch. Just make sure that you have a good deal of floor space which permits the use of natural lighting and that the surrounding furnishings or accessories are neutral in tone.

Choosing to Use Red in a Traditional Decor

When used with a traditional decor, it’s best to use a darker red or a burgundy. Therefore, if you use red, say, on an entry door, the color should be a deeper and richer hue. When used in traditional settings, the color is best used for wall coverings or for carpeting.

Red Works Well in a Rustic Theme

You can definitely use red for a rustic or country theme. Choose a shade that has a purplish or pinkish tint to it. “Rustic” red can be used for vases and in fabrics, such as tablecloths. You might want to decorate an accent chair, for instance, in a red gingham print. Include it as a contrast with a dark blue couch. Include red candles or lamp shades in country red as well. Red is so easy to use in a country decor as it’s often used for barns, lanterns and country-styled knick-knacks.

Using Red in a Transitional Setting

Red can also be put to use in a more transitional type setting. Typically, in a transitional decor, red is used as an enhancement for neutral-colored furnishings. Use it as an accent color for a lamp or brighten up a room, for instance, with a modern red tapestry.

Decorating with red is indeed a good decorating idea when you use it selectively. It can be used to emphasize furnishings or accessories that you may not otherwise regard. Red makes you stand up and take notice of your surroundings. Just make sure you don’t overwhelm others with it.