The Fourth of July is tomorrow and since red is a patriotic color, let’s take a look at its use in interiors. I’m all for the use of wine on the walls or pinks and oranges in sunset hues, but I find that primary red can be jarring in interiors if it’s too intense or overused.
The unexpected red theory has been featured in many recent design articles, spotlighting the use of a burst of red as a refreshing twist in modern interiors. Red is notoriously tricky to work with, too much of it can be overwhelming, however the hue can be exciting when used in unexpected ways.
Red screams “look at me” so its use must be intentional, not haphazard. Red is an attention getter hence the use of it for traffic signs and warning flags. Primary red in interiors can be very stimulating to the senses, yet adding a touch here or there is pleasing when incorporated in a thoughtful or captivating way. Like the application of a perfect red lipstick, you can’t seem to take your eyes off it.
A touch of red is a welcome cheerful accent if layered lightly throughout a room, appearing in delicate ways through fabric patterns or artwork.
c r laine
amal kapan
Red is the opposite of a neutral, it does not carry with it any kind of calm intention or reduce itself as a quiet background. Au contraire, red is used to flirt, to draw attention, or make a bold statement.
a cottage in the city
Like a red checkered tablecloth or a bowl of cherries on a summer day, a dose of red paint can make one feel happy at the sight of it especially if it’s used in a playful way.
oomph furniture
homes and gardens
If you’re attracted to red and want to introduce this hue into your home consider accents to start, a botanical print curtain or a rug.
Red can be seasonal beyond the Christmas holiday, consider a tablecloth, pillow, art print, plates or table linens as a temporary color injection for summer.
red tablecloth
poster store
cabana
home is where the boat is
What are your thoughts on the use of red in interiors?
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Wishing everyone a happy Fourth of July! xo