All year long, designers have been praising deep, bold reds. After years of minimalism and taupe-dominating interiors, many people are craving the exact opposite: a colorful space filled with personality.
Now, the internet has taken it by storm, with viral interior design trends that actually work and teach us about what’s so special about these bold reds and how they can make your home feel unique.
The unexpected red theory
Gen Z design trends on TikTok can sometimes be a little over-the-top, but this one has something for everyone.
The theory goes: add a splash of red to a room where it doesn’t go with anything or make any sense. It could be a picture frame, a cabinet, a light fixture or throw pillows. Anything goes!
Why does it work? It’s like putting on red lipstick. It instantly enhances any look, no matter what color you’re wearing.
Red paint palette
If you’re incorporating a dash of red through paint (rather than upholstery, light fixtures or other decor), you have more flexibility in choosing the right tones.
For a modern and funky look, consider a more vibrant red. These electric hues are popular for doors, making a bold first impression. Despite how bossy these reds are, they pair well with surprising colors like rose pink or a soft teal.
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| SW6333 - Foxy | SW6871 - Positive Red | SW6866 - Heartthrob |
Be warned: if you’re pairing these reds with a true neutral like white, when the light bounces off of the red, they will take on a red-pink undertone — not necessarily a bad thing, but just something to be aware of.
The growing popularity of deep reds
Some of the most popular reds we’re seeing feature an earthier tone. Deep reds, muted reds, dark barn reds — there’s a historic feel to these tones that makes them feel timeless. Yet incorporating just a splash as an accent, they can make a room feel fresh and contemporary.
SW6606 - Coral Reef | Photo Credit: Suzanne Kryton Designs
SW6334 - Flower Pot | Photo Credit: Studio Mesa
SW 7591- Red Barn | Photo Credit: Home Cabinet Expert via Pinterest
When you look at a color on your computer screen or isolated on a paint swatch, you don’t get the full impact of the color. It might not look like a very bright red, but once you paint a whole wall with it, it will feel much brighter. Rule of thumb: always go a few shades softer than you think with a vibrant color.
What colors go best with red paint?
There’s a few ways to go about pairing colors with red paint.
• Neutrals go with everything - Off-whites, creams, taupes, greige. They won’t clash by any means. They will, however, take on the undertones of the brighter colors in the room when light reflects off of them.
• Complimentary balances - If we look at the color wheel, the opposite from red is green, making it the most complementary color. We know what you’re thinking: I don’t want it to look like a Christmas village in my house! But you’ll find that many greens either have lighter neutrals or darker browns in the same color family, which softens the contrast.
• The more chaotic the better - The unexpected red theory lives here. Teal, dark purple, dusty rose, electric blue, mustard yellow. Though it sounds like it would clash, this combination actually makes everything pop.
Photo Credit: Home & Garden UK / Milo Brown
Where are the best areas to paint red?
So you want to try a splash of red in the house, but don’t want it to feel like the Fire Hall. Let's take a look at some different ways that you can tastefully incorporate red into different areas of your home.
Interior room red paint colors
There are some wonderful designs that embrace whole walls of deep, dark, moody reds—like our October 2024 Color of the Month Rojo Marrón. They make for an incredibly cozy bedroom, bathroom, study or living room.
You can also try a more subtle touch like an accent wall. To go even more understated, try painting transitional areas like the kitchen doorway, the window frame, or the ledge of your breakfast nook.
Photo Credit: Homes & Gardens / Mary Wadsworth
Exterior red paint colors
A deep red door is quite popular and stylish. According to Zillow’s analysis, homes with red front doors sold for an average of $2,310 more than similar homes with white front doors. The same logic applies to Garage Doors.
There are other creative ways to bring a bold red outside. You could paint your shed, your light fixtures or even your shutters, for a unique, eye-catching touch.
Red painted cabinets and other accessories
The most approachable way to add a deep red paint color to your home is by focusing on the accessories.
Cabinets in your bedroom, bathroom or kitchen are a fantastic way to make a statement. A really chic way to do this is by painting the inside of exposed cabinets or shelves for a subtle yet striking splash of red.
Image credit: British Standard Cupboards / The Home Reform
When you’re ready to paint, get it done in one day
We’re happy to be your sounding board for color choices in your home or business. We have partnerships with premium paint brands like Sherwin-Williams, so when we paint your home, you’re getting the best quality on your walls for a finish that will last.
It’s so much more than a paint job to us, we take the time to do the job right every time and still get the job done in just one day. Book your free consultation below and learn about the One Day Difference.
