Crimson shades are blossoming in the design world, both for their versatility and soothing design qualities. From hints of cherry red to on-trend terracotta, it is a flattering choice for anyone.
But it is Alicia Keys' deep red and wine-colored outfit from her experience at the 2025 Met Gala that has finally convinced me to decorate with red in my own home.
I've always shied away from red room ideas, instead preferring soft hints of taupe, blush pinks and even butter yellow, but red is having a renaissance.
Red can transform interiors, adding a sophisticated to fun aesthetic, so find out how best to use this confident colour, from accent highlights to bold schemes
The revival of red is unsurprising and the benefits are endless. One of the most passionate and life-enhancing colors to use in a decorating scheme, red offers a luxurious bank of positive energy.
Whether you highlight a design scheme with touches of carefully chosen accessories or paint walls floor to ceiling in a deep shade of this versatile color, it can transform interiors and create different moods, from refined to playful, depending on its application.
‘When using red in a color scheme, it’s best to choose shades that are rich and warm rather than loud and insistent. Maroon, burgundy, and rosehip work brilliantly with shades of green, while deep pinky-reds are very adaptable and blend well with khaki or stone. Dark reds pair best with gold metallic touches and carry a degree of heritage, especially when mixed with dark wood,’ says Simon Temprell, head of interior design at Neptune.
Brandon Schubert, director, of Brandon Schubert Studio adores using touches of unexpected red in his clients' homes.
‘I love deep red hues and use them often in my projects. It’s a color that can take on loads of different attitudes depending on what you pair it with. It’s that versatility that makes deep rusty reds a perfect choice for joinery and unexpected accents.'
Choosing how and where to use red in your scheme can create completely different effects. Color drenching a room with red walls and matching upholstery offers a fully immersive effect. In contrast, dialing down the red percentage to a discreet trim on white bedlinen or to the leading edge of a curtain can be equally as thrilling.
Not sure if red is for you? With bold colors, it is time well spent to consider how you react to the color and how it makes you feel. There is often a clue in our closets as to which colors we lean towards. However, while we can change our outfits, we can’t so easily make that change with our interiors.
Avoid expensive mistakes by getting two or three sample pots of different shades to compare. Paint swatches onto large pieces of paper and hang them around the room to see how they work in different lights and alongside your furniture and other colors that you are considering using.
Shop the red edit
The Fenwick lamp is a beautiful way to introduce a bold touch of red to your interiors. This design is a warming addition to your space with its ceramic grid and pleated paper shade in a striking red-on-red colorway.
A simple vessel is the simplest way to add a statement red color pop to your home. I recommend filling it with colossal clouds of baby's breath flowers for added drama and visual interest.
This tomato-scented candle is the epitome of summer in a bottle. The fragrance has been infused with crisp garden sage, basil and has soft earthy tones that will instantly transport you to the Mediterranean.
