Notes on Colour: Red
Now the weather is turning colder and Autumn is definitely here, I thought I would take a look at a colour often associated with this time of year in my Notes on Colour Series; Red!
Red is a colour I am expecting to see everywhere within interior design in 2025! Among all the shades on the colour wheel, red stands out for its boldness, energy, and warmth. Whether you want to create a space that's vibrant and lively or something with a more intimate and luxurious feel, red can really transform a room when used thoughtfully in interior design.
The Psychology of Red
Red is a stimulating colour associated with passion, excitement, and warmth. It can evoke feelings of energy and action, making it ideal for spaces where you want to inspire conversation and movement, such as living rooms or dining areas. On the other hand, deeper tones of red like burgundy or wine can bring a sense of richness and sophistication, perfect for creating cosy, intimate spaces.
Using Red Within Your Home
If you're new to incorporating red into your home, starting with accent pieces is a great approach. A set of red cushions, or even red art pieces can introduce just the right amount of boldness without overwhelming the space. Red accents can pair beautifully with neutral backgrounds like white, taupe, or grey, allowing the colour to pop without being overpowering.
For those who want to go all-in with red, using it on walls can make a statement. However, it’s essential to choose the right shade and balance it with complementary elements. Bright reds can energize a space, while darker reds can create an inviting atmosphere. To prevent the colour from feeling too intense, balance it with neutral furnishings or metallic finishes.
Red rugs and throws are excellent ways to bring warmth and comfort into a room, especially in colder months.
Mixing Red with Other Colours
Red pairs beautifully with a range of colours. For a sophisticated look, combine deep reds with gold, black, or dark wood finishes. If you’re aiming for a modern, playful space, red works well alongside crisp white or soft pink tones. Red and blue is another classic combination that brings a vibrant contrast, ideal for spaces with a contemporary or eclectic design style.
Because red is such a strong colour, it’s important to balance it with softer tones and materials to avoid overwhelming a space. Introducing natural elements like wood, plants, and neutral fabrics can ground the intensity of red. If you’re using red in larger quantities, soft lighting can also help tone down its vibrancy, creating a warm, welcoming environment.
Featured Red
The kitchen featured in the image was on display at WOW House 2024; it had a warm, inviting feeling to it but also felt sophisticated and grown up! Red can be an unexpected colour for a kitchen but I absolutely loved it!
I am drawn to muddy, earthy reds and a personal favourite has to be Arras by Little Greene; a beautiful deep red; perfect for Autumn and Winter. Old Street by Coat is also a great option to create a dramatic or cosy atmosphere within your home.
Please also have a read of my other notes on colour blogs featuring green, orange, brown, blue, yellow and pink where I take a look at colour psychology and how colours can be used successfully within interior design to create a desired feeling within a space.