On a recent vacation to Costa Rica I took this photo and today I am inspired to consider what lies behind the color red…

What is it about the color red that draws us in? Is it the energy? Vibrancy? The obvious…it simply stands out? When thinking about the color red in regard to interior design there are a few simple points to consider.

Red provokes the most physiological response in comparison to other colors on the color wheel. It can make the heart beat faster, it is invigorating, and it has been shown that it aids in the interconnection of brain neurons. Brain neurons? What does that have to do with interior design? Well, there is a science or theory to using color in your interior environment. You may be thinking the science of it is all great but really what it comes down to is the fact that it is an exciting color! … And I agree with you, however, you can’t ignore the rules of red.

In nature red is fire, blood, ripe fruits, and beautiful flowers in the rain forest. So naturally it is an inspiring and fiery color in the interior built world as well. Known to stimulate the appetite it is a great color for the dining room or kitchen.  Love the red poppies and countertop in this kitchen by Thomas Deir. It really makes it “pop”!  

You may wonder if red in the bedroom is a good idea or not given that it is so invigorating. After all how can one sleep if the space is too psychologically stimulating? Well, a bit of red here and there can really work. Also, the color red in the Western world is a symbol of love, passion, and affection which is perfect for the bedroom. My favorite examples of a subtle use of red in the bedroom include the following spaces. 

The red bedside lamps can definitely get you going.

What child wouldn’t love to wake up in this four poster bed in the morning? Just the right amount of color to make the room fun for a little one but not so much that bedtime becomes a battle!

Red is obviously a warm color and it can symbolize aggression…which can be good or bad (depending on the application). It has also been shown that it makes people work faster when used in the work environment.  It’s okay to be a bit aggressive in the form of initiative at work.

I love this example of the home office. It isn’t such a bright red yet it remains visually stimulating which helps to get some work done while at home.  In this space you will definitely “see the color red” … literally, though in a good way.

According to Feng Shui the front door is considered the “Mouth of Chi” where all good energy enters a space.  Red is considered to be the most auspicious color in Feng Shui.  Therefore painting the front door red is done to attract luck and good energy… or simply because it is also welcoming.

At the end of the day if you are considering the color red in some form for you home. Do not be afraid. Trust your instinct. If it draws you in and you like it because it is exciting then go for it. Some of us are just that kind of personality and you can pull off the color with nothing but success and style. You can’t go wrong because inspiration to use the color red often starts with something so simple that results in a style that stands out. You deserve to stand out so give red a try!