DECORATING INSPIRATION: RED
It’s almost Valentine’s Day!
Valentine’s Day is a great excuse to celebrate decorating with red. I’ve always loved this color and have used it in many of my homes. Red feels warm, bold, and full of personality, and it can work in a variety of styles from traditional to modern.
I’m reminded of a red toile chair I had years ago in my previous house — I adored that piece. While I do have some red in my current home, I’m finding myself craving more of it. Even simple additions like painted doors, a rug, or a statement pillow can introduce just the right amount of drama and charm.
There are countless shades and tones of red, from rich burgundy to bright cherry, and each one creates a different mood. Deep reds add elegance and coziness, while brighter reds energize a space. Pairing red with neutrals like gray, white, or soft beige keeps it balanced, or go bold by combining it with navy or black for a striking effect.
Red lovers and skeptics both make good points. Some people find red too intense for large surfaces, while others relish the warmth and personality it brings. If you’re hesitant, start small: accessories, artwork, or an accent wall can test the waters without committing to a full room makeover.
One great source of inspiration is Sarah’s House—she’s created several wonderful rooms featuring red. Her projects show how versatile red can be across different settings. Whether used sparingly or as the main color scheme, red can elevate a room when balanced thoughtfully.
If you’re thinking about adding more red to your home, consider the room’s natural light and existing finishes. Rooms with ample natural light can handle deeper shades, while cozier rooms may benefit from lighter, warmer reds. Textures matter too: a velvet sofa in ruby red reads differently than a matte-painted door in the same hue.
Do you love decorating with red or prefer to skip it? Share your thoughts and join the friendly debate in the comments—red fans, unite!
Image credits:
Images in the original collage were credited to various design sources and magazines, including House Beautiful, Lonny Magazine, Sarah Richardson, Quadrille Fabrics, Better Homes & Gardens, Traditional Home, and Apartment Therapy. These images illustrate different ways red has been used in interiors, from bold accent pieces to full-room palettes.