Adding pops of red to a room can be an easy and inexpensive way to give any space a bold, vibrant look. Whether you want to go for a dramatic red accent wall or add smaller red accents through decor and accessories, incorporating red into your home decor allows you to infuse color, energy and visual interest into a room.
Red works well in many different design styles from traditional to modern. It always makes a statement and stands out against more neutral backdrops. When used strategically, red accents can help transform the look and feel of a space.
Should You Paint an Accent Wall Red?
One of the most impactful ways to add red to a room is to paint one wall in a bold red hue. This creates an instant focal point and really makes the red pop. An accent wall in red looks great in many rooms of the home from living rooms and bedrooms to dining spaces and studies.
When considering a red accent wall, take into account the size of the wall you want to paint and the other colors and elements in the space. An accent wall works best on a larger wall rather than a small section of wall space. Make sure the red you choose complements the overall color scheme rather than clashing with it.
Also think about the tone and texture of the red paint you choose. Deeper, darker reds may suit some spaces better than bright, fire engine reds. And flat or matte red paint offers a more subtle effect compared to glossy, shiny red paint.
Choosing Red Furnishings and Decor
In addition to red accent walls, using red in key furniture pieces and decor items allows you to inject hits of this color throughout a room. Options for adding red decor touches include:
– Throw pillows or pillow covers
– Area rugs or floor cushions
– Window treatments like red curtains or valances
– Tables with red legs or bases
– Red lamps or lampshades
– Vases, candles or decorative objects in red hues
– Red prints, paintings or wall art
– Red blankets or throws on chairs or sofas
When selecting red furnishings and decor, opt for bold reds or deeper burgundy hues if you want an elegant, sophisticated look. Brighter tomato reds and fire engine reds create more of a playful, energetic vibe. Mixing red tones and textures (glossy, matte, metallic) adds extra visual interest.
Tips for Incorporating Red Accessories
Small red accents can make a big impact. Cleverly using red accessories allows you to evenly distribute pops of red throughout a space. Ideas for red accessories include:
– Throw cushions or pillows
– Candles
– Vases
– Small decor items like boxes or trays
– Coffee table books
– Flowers or plants with red hues
– Placemats or napkins
– Centerpieces
When using red accessories, vary textures and place them strategically around the room. Don’t overload one spot with lots of reds. Spread them out to create balance and a sense of cohesion. You can also limit red accessories to one section of the room, like a bookshelf or coffee table area. Use restraint to keep it elegant. The overall room should not look overly red.
Combining Red with Other Colors
While red can stand out beautifully on its own, you can also combine it thoughtfully with other colors to make the space more visually cohesive and welcoming. Here are some effective color pairings to consider when adding red accents:
| Color Combo | Description |
|---|---|
| Red and white | Classic, timeless, nautical |
| Red and black | Dramatic, elegant, modern |
| Red and gray | Sophisticated, subtle |
| Red and cream | Warm, earthy |
| Red and tan | Rustic, natural |
| Red and light blue | Vibrant, preppy |
Keep the overall color palette limited to 2-4 colors for a cohesive look. The red will instantly become a focal point when combined with neutral shades like white, black, gray and tan. Adding coordinating accent colors like blue or cream gives the scheme more visual interest.
Rooms that Suit Red Accents
While red can work in virtually any room, some spaces are especially well-suited to incorporating this bold, dramatic color:
Kitchen: Add a red backsplash, bar stools, kitchen appliances or tableware.
Dining room: Use a red accent wall, dining chairs, placemats or centerpiece.
Bedroom: Add red bedding, pillows, armchair or window treatments.
Bathroom: Use red towels, bath mats, shower curtain and accessories.
Home office or study: Paint the wall and add red desk accessories.
Kids’ rooms: Use red in moderation on one wall, bedding or accessories.
Living room: Try a red rug, throw pillows, blankets or wall art.
Entryway: Add a red front door, entry rug or bench.
In most cases, it’s best to use red as an accent rather than the main color in these rooms. The pops of red make the space visually exciting without being overwhelming.
Red Paint Colors to Consider
Ready to choose a red paint color? Here are some striking and versatile red paint shades to consider for your accent wall or red furniture pieces:
Matte 7 Red (Sherwin Williams) – A dark, sophisticated red
Dramatic Red (Behr) – A gorgeous deep red tone
Scarlet (Valspar) – A bright true red
Valentine (Benjamin Moore) – A rich pink-based red
Red Pepper (PPG Pittsburgh Paints) – A blue-based, vivid red
Ruby Red (Rust Oleum) – A fire engine red that pops
Cranberry Twist (Glidden) – A red-purple paint color
Visit your local paint store to view swatches of these reds. The undertones and tones can look quite different depending on the finish.
Conclusion
The good news is there are endless possibilities when looking to add red accents to a room. A little bit of red goes a long way in creating a focal point, adding energy and completely transforming the look of a space. From red accent walls to accessories and decor touches, incorporate this bold color strategically. Combine it thoughtfully with other hues and textures in the room. When used effectively, red accents will give your home decor extra vibrancy, visual interest and style.
