Decorating with Red (a little, or a lot!)

by Heidi on Feb 6, 13

If there’s one thing to be said about red, it’s that it loves attention.  So whether you want cheery, exotic or hot-hot-hot, you’re guaranteed a second look when you decorate with reds.  We’ll take a look at some ideas for red accent pieces, and  - for those who are ready to take the plunge – rich red walls.

The Sassy Accent

My personal preference in my own home is for pieces and pops of red around the room.  While red has a always has a particular hallmark, it works in various settings based primarily on the tone.  Cooler reds that move toward red-blue work best in contemporary or retro spaces.  These are the truly upbeat reds which look great with bright whites, kelly greens and pale yellow.  Warmer, richer reds tend to work best in rustic or exotic spaces, and play off of other warm tones such as ochres and chocolates.

via House to Home UK

via House to Home UK

via Freshome Ideas

via Freshome Ideas

The fun thing about accent pieces is that you really create the flow of your room in how you place the accents.  Stick with a similar tone of red in the room, but absolutely play with varied sizes, textures and styles.

via decorpad

via decorpad

via Cityclectic Design

via Cityclectic Design

Hot Accent Pieces

I must say, searching Google Images or Pinterest for red accent pieces is a fun “job” that one could get lost in very easily.  (Not that I did, or anything!)  Shopping for pieces like this is great, but taking a morning to update a flea market chair with a coat of red paint is just as fulfilling – if not more.  Make these pieces your favorites.

Zapatac Rug - Novica

Zapatac Rug – Novica

Roses in the Snow runner - Saffron Marigold

Roses in the Snow runner – Saffron Marigold

White Poppy Vase - Anthropologie

White Poppy Vase – Anthropologie

Red Victoria Vintage Wall Clock - World Market

Red Victoria Vintage Wall Clock – World Market

"Bushel and a Peck" print - Mandipity, Etsy

“Bushel and a Peck” print – Mandipity, Etsy

Red Balloon Vase - Viva Terra

Red Balloon Vase – Viva Terra

The Bold Backdrop

Do you have a wall that’s just begging to be painted red?  Have you been thinking about it for a while?  You should probably just go for it.  I think you’ll be glad you did.  ;)  If you have wonderful natural lighting, you can pull off the cooler reds and a clean, modern look.  (Think of the use of reds in Scandinavian design…).  If you have muted light, the warmer, richer reds will glow for you.  Think global decor, or even cozy casual.

via Martha Stewart Living

via Martha Stewart Living

via Sunset

via Sunset

 

via Houzz

via Houzz

via MNN

via MNN

So what do you think?  Are you on Team Red, or is there another favorite color that you love to showcase?  Let us know!


Related posts:

  1. Decorating with Whites
  2. Loving our Yellow Floral Curtain Panels
  3. Natural Fall Decorating Ideas for the Living Room
  4. Thanksgiving Mix and Match – Ruby Kilim
  5. How are You Decorating For Fall?
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }

Cathy

I love that red vase from Anthropologie!

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Heidi

I do too. (I think I keep featuring it without really noticing because I like it so much! Should probably just buy it and get it out of my system. ;) )
- H

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