When choosing a deep, rich red paint color, you have many options to consider. The undertones and shades of red can vary greatly, creating moods that range from warm, romantic and elegant to dramatic, bold and energetic. Finding the right hue to suit your needs depends on the look and feel you hope to achieve.
Tones of Red
Red is a primary color that can have undertones that appear more blue, yellow or orange. The undertone affects the look and mood created by the red paint.
- Blue-reds have a cooler undertone and may read more as burgundy or wine shades.
- Orange-reds come across as warmer, brighter and more energetic.
- Yellow-based reds can have an earthy, terra cotta type of look.
When choosing a deep red, pay attention to the subtle undertones to find a shade that aligns with your goals for the space.
Darkening Red
There are a few different ways to take a red paint and make it darker or more saturated.
- Add brown – Mixing brown with a red will create deeper, muted earthy tones.
- Add black – Black intensifies a red and boosts its dramatic impact.
- Add navy blue – For red tones that shift slightly towards burgundy.
- Start with a deeper red – Choosing a red that already has more pigment provides instant richness.
The exact ratio of how much to mix with the original red will depend on each specific color and the level of darkness you want to achieve. Test different amounts on paint swatches before applying anything to the walls.
Popular Deep Red Paint Colors
Many paint brands offer their own versions of rich, luxurious reds. Here are some top choices to consider:
| Paint Color | Brand | Undertone |
|---|---|---|
| Valentine | Benjamin Moore | Blue |
| Rich Garnet | Sherwin Williams | Yellow |
| Ruby Ribbon | Behr | Orange |
| Newburyport Red | Farrow & Ball | Blue |
This table shows just a few recommended colors from top paint companies. Be sure to view physical paint swatches before choosing your shade, as the tones can vary slightly from the names.
Best Rooms for Deep Red
Using a bold, dramatic red paint color is ideal for certain rooms in your home where you want to make a statement.
- Living room – As a focal wall or on the smaller accent wall, a saturated red can warm up a living space.
- Dining room – For a moody, elegant feel in a more formal dining area.
- Bedroom – Consider using deep reds for an intimate, relaxing master suite.
- Entryway – Dark reds make a strong first impression on front doors and foyers.
In general, red paint works best when used judiciously in smaller doses, like on one wall or door. Red has a strong visual impact and can feel overwhelming if overdone.
Pairing and Decor Considerations
Choosing accent colors and decor to go with a deep red wall or door requires careful coordination. Here are some top tips:
- Go for contrast with bright whites. Crisp white trims and moldings will make the red really stand out.
- Add warmth with wood tones. Rich browns and black walnut tones complement red’s earthiness.
- Choose metallics. Brass, gold and copper decor pops against red backdrops.
- Layer on textures. Velvets, silks and faux furs feel lush and luxe with red walls.
Avoid going overboard on patterns, as red can compete. Focus on solids, subtle geometrics or organic prints like florals.
DIY Faux Red Finishes
For a custom look, there are also easy DIY faux finishes you can do to make basic red paint take on more dimension and depth:
- Sponge painting – Dab on darker reds with a sea sponge for mottled texture.
- Rag rolling – Roll on thinned paint with a rag for a timeworn, washed look.
- Color washing – Water down paint and apply in thin coats to let the original wall show through.
- Strie – Drag a stiff brush through semi-dry paint to create stripe effects.
Experiment with these techniques on an accent wall or furniture piece before committing to a whole room.
Safety Considerations
When working with any paint, be sure to take proper safety precautions:
- Work in a well-ventilated area and use protective gear like gloves and masks if needed.
- Thoroughly clean brushes and supplies after using oil-based paints.
- Store paint cans securely closed and out of reach of children and pets.
- Dispose of rags that may contain wet paint in water-filled metal containers.
Always read the manufacturer’s labels carefully and follow instructions for safe usage of any painting products.
Conclusion
Choosing a deep, saturated red paint color gives you an easy and dramatic way to instantly transform a room. Whether you prefer a moodier burgundy tone or a vivid orange-red, test out swatches first to settle on the exact shade. Limit red paint to smaller accent walls and doors to maximize its visual impact. Pair it smartly with contrasting whites, warm woods and metallic accents. And don’t be afraid to experiment with faux finishes to make basic reds pop in unique ways. With the right shade and preparation, red paint can take any space from drab to fab.
