'Red is almost a neutral for me.' Designer Emma Beryl Kemper on the decor choices that make a house feel immediately like it's your home

Red, a powerful, bold, and consistently impactful color, is increasingly dominating the design world. Deep red shades like oxblood are rising in popularity, and russet red is identified as a key hue for upcoming seasons. The traditionally seasonal red-and-green combination is also evolving into a year-round designer favorite. This article explores 29 color pairings that incorporate red effectively into home interiors, offering guidance on balancing its intensity and integrating it with various aesthetic preferences. When working with red, strategic application is crucial. Pairing red with neutral tones such as cream or ivory allows for a more liberal use of the color, as these neutrals help to balance red's inherent intensity. Conversely, in spaces already featuring a diverse palette of colors like pale blue or bright pink, subtle touches of red can enhance the design without overwhelming the room. The approach to integrating red should align with the homeowner's overall aesthetic; maximalists might enjoy layering multiple bold shades, while those with a more restrained style may prefer using red as an accent. The article provides specific examples of successful red color combinations. For instance, rust red and honey brown create warmth, as seen in a dining room where a rusty red art piece complements an orange-brown vintage dining table. Brick red, tan, and black are used to unify a sunroom, with the red tone drawn from existing terra-cotta floors and balanced by neutral wicker furniture and cream walls, accented with modern black steel tables. Other notable pairings include currant and muted blue, which add depth to a nautical-inspired bedroom, and hot pink and scarlet, where a touch of scarlet in bedding enhances a pink-dominated space for year-round appeal. Rose, teal, and white are used in a bathroom to create a balanced, non-'Americana' feel. Burgundy, mid-tone brown, and blue in a dining room showcase how deeper reds can be balanced with natural wood and cool blue accents. The article further illustrates how vivid red, periwinkle, and lime can create a playful homework corner, with periwinkle acting as a neutral. Magenta, sky blue, and burnt orange are combined in a dining room through wallpaper and a solid red wall. Wine red and dark brown create a moody and warm bathroom, while velvety red, bright green, and gold contribute to a luxurious and playful powder room. Crimson, black, and green are utilized in a den to create a warm, cocoon-like atmosphere with jewel tones. Firetruck red, brown, and white playfully accent a game room's botanical wallpaper. Cyan and true red are combined in a guest room with blue walls and worn red floors, creating a timeless look. Red, charcoal, and chartreuse introduce vibrant color into a moody library. Mustard, gold, and muted red brighten an entryway, and gray-brown, blue, and red demonstrate an unexpected yet flattering backdrop for red. Finally, grass green and red are shown to create a non-Christmas-themed library, and periwinkle and orange-red pair a soft blue sofa with classic red-and-cream wallpaper. Lavender, turquoise, and red create a bold living room with a purple ceiling and red walls. Teal blue and dark red in a 1700s Virginia study balance strong architecture with saturated colors. These examples demonstrate the versatility of red and how it can be integrated into diverse interior designs with careful consideration of its complementary colors. #RedColorPalette #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecorating #ColorCombinations #DesignInspiration #RoomDecor #ColorPsychology #HomeStyling #AccentColors

The article highlights Katherine Heigl's living room as an example of timeless interior design that counters current trend fatigue. Heigl's space is characterized by a classic and contemporary aesthetic, achieved primarily through the use of cream, which is identified as a significant anti-trend color for 2025. The living room features subtle painted walls, an accent chair, and a tapered candle in a black wall sconce, contributing to a minimalist, sophisticated, and enduring look. Decorating with cream is presented as a masterclass in achieving a timeless aesthetic. The article suggests that embracing such classic color schemes and design principles can combat the exhaustion associated with constantly chasing fleeting trends. This approach prioritizes longevity and comfort over temporary fads, advocating for design choices that remain relevant over time. To recreate Heigl's timeless look, the first step is selecting the appropriate paint color. Michael Rolland, Managing Director and paint and color expert at The Paint Shed, recommends choosing high-quality, timeless neutrals from trusted brands. He specifically mentions Farrow & Ball's 'Strong White' for its ability to provide soft depth and brightness, essential for an upscale aesthetic. The importance of natural light is also emphasized, as it contributes to making a space feel bright, airy, warm, and inviting. Rolland advises considering the room's orientation to best utilize daylight, suggesting warmer, creamier tones for north-facing rooms and cooler shades for south-facing spaces. Furthermore, the article suggests incorporating texture to add visual interest to a monochromatic space, preventing it from appearing one-dimensional. Examples include fluffy throw pillows, textured picture frames, or lush houseplants for a touch of greenery. These elements can enhance the overall appeal without compromising the minimalist and sophisticated vibe. The overarching message is that decorating with white and cream provides versatility and ample opportunities for creative styling, offering an effective way to adopt an anti-trend approach to interior design. The featured products that complement Katherine Heigl's living room style include the Martha Stewart Amber Modern Velvet Swivel Chair, praised for its suitability for small spaces and its light, neutral fabric, low back, and flared arms. Ivory Taper Candles are recommended for their elegant appearance and smoke-free, odor-free properties, ideal for entertaining. The Aisling Pillow Cover from McGee & Co. is suggested for adding texture and sophistication to a bedroom decor scheme with its fringed edging. These product recommendations align with the article's theme of creating a calming and sophisticated environment through classic and timeless design elements. In essence, the article champions a design philosophy that prioritizes enduring style over transient trends. By focusing on classic colors like cream, optimizing natural light, and strategically incorporating textures, homeowners can create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also maintain their appeal for years to come, embodying a sense of calm and sophistication. #InteriorDesign #CelebrityHomes #TimelessStyle #CreamDecor #NeutralPalette #HomeDecor #MinimalistDesign #TrendFatigue #ColorSchemes

The design world has long favored ultra-neutral palettes, characterized by whitewashed spaces, beige tones, and extensive use of oak wood. While acknowledging the appeal of such minimalist aesthetics, a notable shift is occurring, driven by a desire to introduce vibrant accents. Specifically, fire-engine red is emerging as a dominant color trend, moving beyond fashion into home interiors. This trend represents an evolution of previous color-centric movements, offering a more versatile and enduring appeal. Red, traditionally associated with strong emotions and energy, is now being incorporated into homes to break the monotony of neutral backdrops. Just as a single red accessory can transform an outfit, strategically placed red items in a room can add a "lighthearted cheekiness" and create an unexpected focal point. This approach allows for a subtle yet impactful integration of color without overwhelming the existing design scheme. The trend is not about radical overhauls but rather thoughtful additions that punctuate a space with vivid contrast. In kitchen settings, red accents evoke a sense of retro charm. Examples include designer Nick T. Poe's kitchen, where a red trash can and espresso machine introduce a heritage Americana aesthetic into an otherwise neutral environment. The color also elevates table settings, infusing dinner parties with festive energy through serveware, linens, and decorative elements. Products such as a red salt and pepper grinder, a porcelain dinner plate with red accents, or a red-hued vase can subtly introduce this fiery hue into the culinary space. The versatility of this trend lies in its ability to be implemented through small, deliberate details. A single picture frame, a decorative bowl, or a tabletop organizer in a shade of red can provide the desired pop of color. Other examples include a red mirror, a cashmere throw, a magazine rack, a petal plate, a glazed stoneware candlestick, a sobremesa vase, a rotating desk organizer, or a wavy picture frame. These smaller items allow homeowners to experiment with the trend without committing to large, permanent changes. For those seeking a bolder statement, the trend extends to larger furniture pieces that can provide significant contrast in a neutral room. Surprisingly, some of these more substantial items are also budget-friendly, such as IKEA’s bentwood chair or Urban Outfitters’s powder-coated metal desk. Other options include a red organization system, a plain velvet pillow cover, an arbor table lamp, a nest storage bed, an Eames wire base low table, or a bit stool stack. These items demonstrate that incorporating a strong color can be achieved through both subtle accents and more prominent furniture, offering a dynamic way to revitalize home interiors and infuse them with a contemporary, energetic spirit. #InteriorDesign #ColorTrends #RedDecor #HomeAccents #KitchenDecor #LivingSpace #StyleShopping #DesignInspiration #HomeFurnishings

The article details significant interior colour trends emerging in Australia for 2025, emphasizing how diverse palettes are reshaping home aesthetics. It highlights the crucial role of colour choice in creating spaces that reflect personal style and complement lifestyle. New build markets and insights from leading paint brands like Wattyl, Dulux, Haymes Paint, and Taubmans are central to identifying these evolving trends, which collectively aim to introduce warmth, nostalgia, and modern vibrancy into residential interiors. Four major colour trends are identified and discussed. The first trend is 'Warm neutrals,' presented as the foundational element for room palettes, offering tranquility and refined elegance. Wattyl's "new neutral" shades, such as Warm Sand, are noted for their compatibility with natural, organic materials, making them suitable for various rooms including kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas. Dulux contributes to this with its Still palette, featuring calming shades like Mellow Beige and Clay Pipe. Haymes Paint draws inspiration from Australia's diverse landscapes, offering natural tones like Sand Haze, which provides a serene effect through its desaturated quality. Taubmans extends this category with Manhattan Snow and Stowe White, reinforcing the enduring versatility of warm neutrals. Secondly, 'Earth shades' reflect a growing commitment to sustainability and biophilic design. Haymes' Daintree palette, inspired by ancient rainforests, includes deep greens, mossy hues, and earthy browns, with Contrast, a yellow/green, evoking the Eucalyptus flower. Dulux's Clay Court (from the Still collection) and Faded Terracotta (from the Recollect palette) are highlighted for their grounding qualities, connecting residents to the natural world. Terracotta, particularly, is a popular choice in new build styling, as seen in Sarazin's Murcia Residences. Wattyl's desert-inspired terracottas, such as Terracotta Tone, add depth and can complement softer pastels and vibrant yellows and reds. The third trend, 'Rustic reds,' brings vibrancy and a sense of history to interiors. These shades are designed to create lively atmospheres that honor craftsmanship and heritage, serving as prominent focal points. Dulux's Recollection palette includes impactful hues like Red Clown and Auburn Flair, aligning with a forecast for rich burgundies and wine hues to gain prominence in residential design. Haymes Paint offers deep reds, like Worn Red, inspired by Australian landscapes, which are ideal for 'colour drenching' techniques. Taubmans’ Rebel Wine is recommended for living and theatre areas in its 2025 Colour Trends guide. Finally, 'Dynamic blues' are emerging as a significant trend, infusing modern energy into spaces. Dulux's Justice, part of its Emerge palette, represents a contemporary blend of serenity and bold expression. Haymes Paint’s Colours of Australia collection includes vibrant blues like Mindful and Faded Blue, perfect for creating tranquil sleeping environments. Sherridon Homes exemplifies the effective use of blue to achieve both modern and comfortable aesthetics in designs like its Lakeport home. These blues are particularly effective in fresh architectural contexts, providing cool and calming influences in well-lit interiors. #ColorTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #WarmNeutrals #EarthShades #RusticReds #DynamicBlues #AustralianDesign #NewBuilds

Red paint offers a spectrum of possibilities for interior design, ranging from soft, earthy tones to vibrant primary hues and deep, rich shades. Choosing the right red depends on the desired mood and aesthetic for a given space. Paint experts provide insights into three distinct categories of red to guide homeowners in their selection. Earthy neutrals are recommended for those who seek to incorporate red without overwhelming a room. These muted shades, such as Little Greene's Nether Red, Arras, or Tuscan Red, feature earthy undertones, making them easier to integrate and allowing them to function almost as neutrals. Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director at Little Greene, emphasizes that these warm shades create a comforting and soothing environment, ideal for relaxation. They can be applied to all four walls, paired with warm whites and soft pinks, or used in a color-drenching approach to achieve a rich yet gentle interior. For decorators who are more adventurous, primary bright reds offer a powerful and energizing option. These vibrant shades align with the current trend of joyful interiors and can be embraced through maximalist design choices. Anna Hill, Brand Director and Colour Consultant at Fenwick & Tilbrook, suggests going "all in" and drenching a space in a softened bright red like Can-Can to add warmth and richness without excessive intensity. For a more controlled introduction, bright red can be used in smaller doses, such as on door frames, mirror edges, or furniture pieces. Hill also advises pairing red with complementary shades like blue or green to balance its intensity, or with warm, stony neutrals for a sophisticated look that avoids being overwhelming. Dark, deep shades of red, such as burgundy, offer a luxurious and impactful alternative to brighter reds, and are identified as a significant color trend. Marianne Shillingford, Creative Director at Dulux, notes that these rich, deep reds are particularly effective in spaces intended for impressing guests, entertaining, or creating a cozy atmosphere. She explains that adding a touch of grey to a deep red can make it more versatile and less daunting to work with. Shades like Dulux's Redcurrant Glory, which contain a perfect amount of soothing grey, are recommended for their adaptability. When combined with calming neutrals like Knotted Twine or Goose Down, these deep reds become even more accessible for various decorating projects. #RedPaint #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #PaintShades #EarthyNeutrals #PrimaryBrights #DarkRed #ColorTrends #DecoratingTips

Kelly Hoppen, often referred to as the 'Queen of Neutrals' for her signature design style, has revealed her unexpected fondness for a specific bright color: red. This revelation came during an interview with Ideal Home, where she discussed her work with Samsung's Bespoke Refrigerator range and her general design philosophy. Despite her reputation for creating serene, balanced environments using neutral palettes, Hoppen emphasized that she is not inherently against color. Instead, she believes that carefully selected color accents can inject significant energy and vitality into a space. Hoppen's approach to color is rooted in using neutrals as a calming backdrop, allowing bolder hues to stand out effectively. She shared a personal anecdote from her teenage years, recalling her immediate affection for a deep ox-blood red Chinese trunk discovered in Portobello Road. This early experience fostered her appreciation for various shades of red, from bright scarlet and crimson to deep burgundy. Hoppen highlighted that red accents are versatile, working well across different fabrics and materials, and harmonizing particularly effectively with neutral colors, especially taupe. The article suggests several practical ways to incorporate red into home decor. These include reupholstering an old armchair in a cherry red fabric for a reading nook, introducing deep burgundy into a study to create a traditional library feel, or utilizing a red feature wall in a living room to provide a striking contrast against neutral elements. Another suggestion is painting the back of a front door red to make a bold impression in the hallway. These examples demonstrate how even those accustomed to neutral interiors can experiment with vibrant colors in a controlled and impactful manner. Hoppen's partnership with Samsung to launch their modular and customizable Bespoke Refrigerator range further exemplifies her adaptable design perspective. She expressed confidence that the innovative styling and cutting-edge design of these refrigerators, which allow for personalization, will disrupt the market. She views the Bespoke range as an opportunity for individuals to express their personality and accommodate evolving tastes, much like how she advocates for strategic color use in interiors. The collaboration also extended to fashion, with British designer Charlie Casely-Hayford creating modular clothing inspired by the refrigerator's adaptable nature, reinforcing the theme of customization and individual expression. The article underscores that while Hoppen is known for her mastery of neutrals, her design philosophy embraces the thoughtful integration of bold colors to enhance and personalize living spaces. Her insights encourage readers to overcome any apprehension about using bright hues, demonstrating that even a designer renowned for subtlety can appreciate and effectively employ vibrant tones like red to add character and flair to a home. #KellyHoppen #InteriorDesign #NeutralPalette #ColorAccents #HomeDecor #RedInDesign #SamsungBespoke #DesignPhilosophy #DecoratingTips

The article explores the pervasive trend of 'beigification' across various aspects of modern life, including fashion, home decor, and even baby products. The author reflects on this phenomenon, drawing parallels to personal experiences from adolescence to impending parenthood. Initially, the author recalls a youthful aversion to neutral colors, contrasting it with a present-day reality where beige and off-white dominate aspirational content on social media and fashion advertisements promoting 'quiet luxury.' Beigification is presented not as a new trend but as a natural evolution of earlier design movements, such as late 2010s Scandinavian decor and the widespread use of gray wood flooring. The article suggests that the current beige saturation emerged as a way to 'warm up' the previously gray-dominated interiors that were prevalent before the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, it is posited that the adoption of beige and other earthy neutrals serves as a subtle indicator of wealth during economic uncertainty and provides a sense of comfort and coziness in a turbulent world. The author admits a personal struggle against the allure of beigification, particularly concerning choices for an upcoming child, such as opting for beechwood blocks and cream onesies over vibrant, plastic items. This choice is framed as a potentially delusional coping mechanism for dealing with significant life changes. The article delves into broader societal implications, questioning whether the beigification of the 2020s is a symptom of late-stage capitalism or a collective attempt to mask despair. The author expresses concern for collective sanity due to the lack of vibrancy and fun, while also acknowledging the practical appeal of beige for its easy likeability. Although not advocating for a return to past extreme trends like Y2K aesthetics or 2000s Tuscan decor, the author hopes for a shift towards more exuberant colors. The article concludes with a note of optimism, suggesting that trends are cyclical and that younger generations, like Gen Z, with their appreciation for 'chaos and clutter,' might eventually usher in a more colorful era, moving away from what is metaphorically described as 'Straight Jacket Cream' to 'Obnoxious Orange.' The author also playfully notes that babies, regardless of their parents' beige preferences, will ultimately develop their own tastes. #ColorTrends #Decor #Fashion #HomeDesign #Parenting #SocietalTrends #ConsumerCulture #Aesthetics #QuietLuxury

This article details the transformation of a 1915 San Francisco home by designer Kevin Sawyers, who aimed to imbue it with the vibrant personal style of its owner. Although the house was in good structural condition, it lacked personality and cohesive color. Sawyers addressed this by developing a “lip-smacking and playful, but certainly sophisticated” color palette that directly reflects the homeowner's wardrobe choices. The design strategy involved a tight edit of recurring colors to create cohesion and whimsy. For instance, the deep red from the dining room wallpaper reappears on the kitchen backsplash, family room rug, and as the guest bathroom’s wall paint. Similarly, a peachy orange from the kitchen island is echoed in the primary suite. This intentional repetition of strong colors ensures a unified yet dynamic aesthetic throughout the home. Beyond color, the project emphasized custom woodworking, which serves as a grounding element for the bold palette. Built-in case goods and white oak murals cover many walls, providing functional storage and integrated furniture. These custom pieces also feature unique decorative elements, such as mountain range murals inspired by the family’s vacation to Switzerland, adding a personalized touch. Despite minimal structural changes, primarily limited to the children’s bathroom, the three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom home underwent a complete aesthetic overhaul. Virtually every surface was altered, updated, or replaced, making it unrecognizable from its initial state. The extensive design efforts ensured that the house not only became a reflection of its owner but also achieved a joyful, stylish, and clean atmosphere. Key areas of the home showcase this design philosophy. The entryway features a graphic 3D wall mural depicting Swiss mountains and practical storage solutions with circular wall knobs. The living room introduces the home’s ethos with a fireplace framed in Heath Ceramics tile, a nod to the client’s collection, and playful elements like an arch painted on the wall. The family room and playroom embody a flexible, family-friendly style, with wood slats providing subtle separation and a nocturnal Swiss mountain mural in the stairwell. The kitchen features updated cabinetry painted in bold colors like Snowy Shadow and Mysterious Blue, complemented by light fixtures and tiles that match the vibrant hues. A tucked-away pantry adds a playful touch with neon green floating shelves. The breakfast nook, designed for versatility, includes a custom banquette and fluted details that echo design elements found elsewhere in the house. The dining room offers a sleek space for entertaining, with Lee Jofa wallpaper over wainscoting and Benjamin Moore Magenta paint. The primary bedroom provides a tranquil retreat with softer tones like Daytona Peach, while the primary and guest bathrooms incorporate punchy hues, durable materials, and retro-inspired elements like terrazzo-style concrete countertops, maintaining the home's overall vibrant theme. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #CustomWoodwork #SanFranciscoHome #PersonalStyle #ResidentialDesign #VibrantInteriors #HomeRenovation

Red, a color often associated with drama and passion, can be effectively incorporated into home interiors in various applications, from subtle accents to bold, enveloping statements. Its versatility allows it to function as a vibrant highlight or even a surprising neutral, depending on the shade and context. This article explores thirteen distinct shades of red, showcasing how designers and homeowners have utilized them to infuse energy, warmth, and personality into different spaces. The featured reds range from classic ruby reds, described as a timeless neutral akin to red nail polish by designer Alison Spear, to deeper, more complex hues like Red Delicious, an oxblood shade that evokes memories of Japanese kimonos and pairs well with various blues. Other vibrant options include Dutchlac Brilliant Tulip Red, a daring, playful fire engine red that brightens spaces, and Spring Cosmos, an orange-red that is presented as a bold yet reversible choice for paint due to its relatively low cost and ease of change compared to furniture. These reds are shown applied in diverse settings: unifying irregularly proportioned rooms, creating stylish butler's pantries, and defining cozy library spaces. Further exploration delves into Habanero, a shade reminiscent of dried chili peppers and celebrated for its energetic impact, and Lattice Red, favored by designers William Diamond and Anthony Baratta for its orange undertones that contribute to a happier living environment. The article also highlights the dramatic effect of lacquered red walls, which reflect light and create an illusion of greater space in dining areas, and the rich texture of wool satin in Paprika, used to sheath dining room walls and complement antique art. These examples underscore how material and finish can alter the perception of a red hue. More nuanced reds, such as Cinnabar, a deep red with hints of orange and umber evoking old Chinese lacquer, and Salsa, a corally orange-red that Keith Irvine associates with excitement and tropical drinks, demonstrate the breadth of red's emotional resonance. Lighter, softer shades like Paprika from Portola Paints, with its strié effect, are shown to add warmth and dignity, enhancing the appearance of food and people under its glow. Finally, Chili Pepper, described as a cheerful Chinese red with deep coral undertones, is presented as a color that tempers bold patterns in fabrics when used on walls, creating a relaxing ambiance. Through these diverse examples, the article illustrates that red, in its many forms, offers a powerful tool for transforming interior spaces with dramatic flair. #RedColorPalette #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #PaintColors #RoomIdeas #ColorInspiration #DramaticInteriors #DesignTips #HomeStyling

The color red is gaining significant traction in design and decorating, having been named the 2026 Color of the Year. Its warm hue is being incorporated into various elements, from textiles and paint to jewelry and gardens. However, its suitability for a bedroom, a space typically associated with rest and relaxation, raises questions about its intensity. Designers were polled to determine if red can be chic and relaxing in such a setting, with most expressing enthusiasm despite acknowledging its challenging nature due to associations with intense emotions. Only a few designers would completely avoid using red in sleeping areas. Aimee Buccellato of Buccellato Design and Architecture asserts that no colors are off-limits, emphasizing that red can contribute to a room's story by being warm, inviting, mysterious, or sexy. Designers largely agree that successful incorporation of red in a bedroom relies on thoughtful execution to ensure it appears chic and restful, rather than garish. Four key tips are offered for designing a red bedroom. Firstly, designers suggest thinking beyond red-painted walls, using the color as an accent rather than a dominant feature. Meg Lonergan, a Houston-based designer, recommends using red as a 'pop of color,' akin to a red lip. Given that incorrect red wall choices can be a common design pitfall, painting only the trim in a crimson hue is suggested. Molly Torres Portnof of DATE Interiors also advocates for incorporating red through wallpaper, rugs, or painted furniture. Secondly, to mitigate the intensity of red, especially on walls, designers advise using finishes and materials with softness and texture. Ashton Taylor recommends wallpaper or plaster for clients desiring a full color drench. Wendy Labrum agrees, suggesting muted shades like Portola’s Meritage in Roman Clay. Katie Wolf of Atlanta proposes upholstering bedroom walls in a dusty red hue. Red and white toile is also highlighted as a favored option for its ability to create a cozy and calming atmosphere when used on walls, bedding, and drapery. Thirdly, selecting the right hue is crucial to avoid overly saturated reds. Roger Higgins, based in Nashville, suggests deep reds with neutral undertones, such as oxblood red, to prevent the color from feeling too intense or severe. He also supports the use of diverse textures like boucle, velvet, and leather to create a soothing, cocoon-like ambiance. Finally, designers recommend balancing red with complementary colors. Kristina Phillips, who appreciates red's 'Americana feel,' suggests pairing it with a vibrant green-yellow or chartreuse. Katie Wolf adds that red complements spaces with outdoor greenery. For those seeking a less daring alternative, accessorizing red with gold is proposed for a similar complementary effect, adding depth and a collected feel to the room, as noted by Raleigh-based Tula Summerford, who favors framing artwork in warm gold in red rooms. #BedroomDecor #RedColor #InteriorDesign #ColorTrends #DesignerTips #HomeDecor #DecoratingIdeas #PaintColors #TexturedWalls

This article explores the growing design trend of painting door frames in bright, contrasting colors to introduce a sense of joy and personality into a home's interior. Rather than committing to a full accent wall, this approach offers a more subtle yet impactful way to inject vibrancy into living spaces. Designers laud this technique for its ability to add sophistication and energy with minimal effort. The article highlights the versatility of this paint trend, suggesting its suitability for various rooms throughout the home. It is particularly effective in transitional areas, such as between a living room and dining room, where a bright door frame can establish a visual connection while also delineating distinct spaces. For children's bedrooms, this method provides a flexible way to add color without the long-term commitment of a dominant shade, allowing for easy updates as tastes evolve. An example provided is a rustic kitchen designed by Hendricks Churchill, where a yellow trim and door frame are essential to the space's overall dynamism. The designers emphasize that these graphic accents, set against burnished lime plaster walls, contribute to a quiet drama and enable the rooms to lean more minimal, subtly referencing the Shaker aesthetic. This demonstrates how even a small application of color can profoundly influence a room's character and overall design narrative. When selecting colors for door frames, the article advises choosing shades that are bright but maintain a harmonious relationship with the existing wall color. For instance, a Farrow & Ball Raw Tomatillo green is showcased alongside stark white entryway walls, creating an elegant and striking combination. Designers suggest that one could opt for a shade slightly lighter or darker than the wall paint for a less dramatic, yet still impactful, effect. It is also important to consider other colors and accents present in the room to ensure a cohesive color scheme. Kathryn Murphy of Kathryn Murphy Interiors further elaborates on the benefits of painting door and window casings, noting their potential to layer color and add depth. She recommends either matching them to a colorful space for a 'color drenching' effect or using contrast to build the color scheme and introduce detail. Murphy also points out that this trend can serve as a practical compromise for couples with differing aesthetic preferences, allowing for neutral walls combined with colorful trim. The article also discusses using muted colors for door frames, especially when paired with white backgrounds, to achieve a colorful yet understated look. Kelly Cray, creative principal at U31, observes a shift from statement walls to statement features like doors, especially in smaller spaces. This allows for bold color choices on doors and adjacent wood trim, or a monochromatic treatment of both. She highlights that statement doors can accentuate architectural profiles more effectively than smooth walls. While bold colors are commonly seen on exterior front doors, Cray notes a more subdued variant of this trend emerging indoors, featuring earth tones or natural wood frames paired with painted doors. Beyond color, the article encourages creative exploration with shapes. Pierre Yovanovitch's design, featuring a wavy, sunshine-yellow door frame, exemplifies how pattern can amplify the joyous energy of color and create architectural interest. This playful combination guides guests through spaces, establishing a visual storyline. Finally, the article suggests specific paint products like Raw Tomatillo by Farrow & Ball, Daffodil yellow by Lick, and Aleutian blue by Sherwin Williams as excellent choices for those looking to adopt this colorful and thoughtful design approach. #InteriorDesign #PaintTrends #ColorInDesign #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalFeatures #DIYHome #DesignTips

This blog post explores the vibrant and cheerful redesign of Raeleen and Charlie Yoon's Larchmont home, a project undertaken by Kendra Amin-Dufton and Brad Dufton of Color Theory Boston. Having previously worked with the Yoons on their Boston residence, the designers were aware of the family's affection for color, drawing inspiration from their frequent travels to Costa Rica and a Mid-Century Modern aesthetic. The goal was to create a lively and welcoming home filled with personal touches. The kitchen, designed by Sarah Robertson of Studio Dearborn, was intended to be the heart of the home. Despite initial layout complexities due to large openings into the sitting room, creative solutions were employed for base cabinetry storage. Throughout the home, walls are kept muted to allow colorful furniture and textiles to stand out. The kitchen features a large island, a combination of blue and white cabinetry, and floating shelves, creating a crisp and clean ambiance. Quartz composite is used for the island counter, while marble is incorporated elsewhere, including the tulip table. Brass accents on pendant lighting add a touch of glamour. A notable feature is the 360-degree rotating wood-burning fireplace, which efficiently heats the space and contributes to a cozy atmosphere. The range hood was designed to be reflective, blending into the wall, and subway tile extends behind the single wall cabinet and around the banquette for cohesiveness. The dining room showcases Raeleen's collection of vintage pieces, displayed on glass shelves against lavender gray walls that highlight the colorful ceramics. An oval table facilitates movement, and brass details complement the wall color, while chair upholstery integrates the blue-and-white scheme from the kitchen. The teenage daughter Kendall's room reflects her love for books, blues, greens, and nature, featuring bird-themed wallpaper, coordinated linens, a rug, window treatments, and a desk chair. A nest-like hanging chair provides a private reading nook, emphasizing her personal sanctuary. The article also highlights five stylish ways to incorporate color into a home, as suggested by interior designer Kendra Amin-Dufton: using a bright pop of color on the front door, being bold with large furniture pieces in jewel tones, utilizing all-over color in smaller rooms like powder rooms, adding an unexpected pop of color on the ceiling, and employing variations of the same hue in diverse textiles. Further details of the home include a more formal, moodier living room with smoky-gray walls, brass accents, and a silk rug, alongside a biofuel floating fireplace. The son Brady's bedroom caters to his high energy and love for sports with a cork tile wall, basketball hoop, sound-dampening carpet tiles, a lofted bed with a desk, and a secret 'bat cave' for downtime. The powder room is designed to be bold and fun with black-marble vanity, while the basement features two zones: a kid's area and a 'man cave' with an 'architecturally incredible' wood pool table and a jazz bar aesthetic. A sitting and meditation room is designed with a colorful modular sofa, complemented by warm pink and lavender walls and an over-dyed vintage rug, aiming to create an enveloping sunset-like atmosphere. The family room serves as a central relaxation spot, introducing colors used throughout the home, with a colorful geometric rug, additional colored furniture, and black-painted ceiling beams acting as a unifying design element. A reading area at the back includes a gallery wall of the children's artwork, completing the family-centric space. #HomeRedesign #ColorTheory #InteriorDesign #LarchmontHome #MidCenturyModern #KitchenDesign #VibrantInteriors #FamilyHome #CustomDesign

Midimalism, a contemporary design trend that harmoniously blends elements of minimalism and maximalism, offers a balanced approach to interior decoration. This style aims to create spaces that are eclectic yet thoughtfully curated, providing visual interest without overwhelming the senses. It is particularly well-suited for bedrooms, where it can foster a soothing, inviting, and personalized sanctuary. Unlike the often stark aesthetic of pure minimalism or the abundance of maximalism, midimalism maintains depth and character through carefully chosen layers. Interior designer Kim Armstrong describes it as a tightrope walk between richness and rest, where layers are present but selected with precision. The midimalist bedroom avoids clutter while still feeling personal and rich in detail. One key aspect of achieving a midimalist bedroom is the integration of both traditional and modern accents. This approach involves selecting a contemporary, neutral color palette and pairing it with elegant, simple bedding. Vintage decor and antique furniture are incorporated, but in a balanced manner, often uplifted by modern soft furnishings. The goal is to create a timeless design that reflects the owner's tastes and balances style with practicality, using meaningful pieces sparingly to give them greater purpose. Another characteristic of midimalist design is the strategic use of color. While a more minimal decorating approach is adopted, vibrant colors and rustic decor are introduced as pops, ensuring the space remains refreshing yet impactful. Holly Vaughan, founder of Vaughan Design, emphasizes that midimalists appreciate texture, color, and pattern but prefer these elements not to dominate. The strategy involves focusing on a few key elements of pattern, texture, and and color to create interest without busyness. When incorporating patterns, designers recommend using less vibrant colors to maintain a subdued overall scheme. If a bolder color is used as a primary element, other components are kept softer, or a neutral backdrop is chosen to allow colorful or smaller-scale patterns to serve as focal points. Layers of quiet patterns are also integral to the midimalist aesthetic. This involves combining various textiles, wall coverings, art, and furnishings so they complement rather than compete. Patterns are welcome, but their scale is typically subdued, such as small-scale wallpaper or textural grasscloth, paired with a limited number of coordinating prints (four or five at most, compared to the ten or twelve often seen in maximalist spaces). The color palette is often cohesive, leaning towards analogous or monochromatic schemes, where every hue contributes to a unified visual narrative. Establishing a neutral base is crucial for midimalist bedrooms. This foundation allows for versatility, enabling bolder, colorful accessories and furniture to be introduced without clashing. Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore, suggests choosing a neutral base that aligns with the home's overall color scheme. For instance, if a home leans towards warm colors, warmer neutrals or white paints with warm undertones are recommended. For those who wish to incorporate multiple colors, a visual balance is maintained by following a ratio, such as 60% for the main color, 30% for the secondary, and 10% for an accent. The accent color helps to unify the scheme and prevent it from becoming ultra-contrasting. Finally, midimalist bedrooms involve layering decor with a clear focal point. Despite being more curated than maximalist spaces, they still embrace personal decor and art. Layers of texture and detail are used to add depth to a neutral color palette. A prominent element, such as a large framed tapestry, can serve as the main focal point, flanked by complementary pieces like sconces, adding character without overwhelming the viewer. Accessories are intentionally edited; a single sculptural lamp, a vase with fresh flowers, or a well-worn book can hold significant visual weight. Art pieces are chosen strategically, often with a single strong piece displayed with ample space around it, allowing both the artwork and the observer to appreciate it fully. #MidimalistDesign #BedroomDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #CuratedSpaces #NeutralColorPalette #LayeredDecor #ColorPops #TraditionalModernBlend #HomeSanctuary

Rebecca Atwood, a fabric designer, discusses her new book, "Living with Color," which focuses on the challenges and joys of incorporating color into home decor. This book follows her previous work, "Living with Pattern." Atwood emphasizes that color is fundamental to design, influencing mood and reflecting personal style, and she aims to provide practical guidance for its use in homes. She addresses the common reluctance to use bold colors, often stemming from a fear of being stuck with a particular hue or growing tired of it. Atwood suggests that neutrals, while seemingly safe, can lead to a dull space if not approached creatively. Her book offers strategies for making neutrals interesting by exploring their undertones, such as pinker taupes or greener grays, to create a chromatic neutral palette. She advises looking to natural landscapes for inspiration on color palettes and proportions. For those new to integrating color, Atwood recommends starting with easily changeable items like fresh flowers, fruit bowls, pillowcases, napkins, or small decorative objects on a bookshelf. This approach allows for experimentation without a significant commitment. She highlights the significant impact color has on mood, explaining that different values of color—light, mid-tone, and dark—can evoke different feelings, from airy to cozy to moody. She encourages individuals to reflect on how colors personally affect them to tailor their environment accordingly. Atwood shares that her personal color palette is deeply rooted in the landscape of Cape Cod, where she grew up. This origin inspires her use of chromatic neutrals and her appreciation for tonal variations, which she incorporates into her fabric designs. She aims to create collections that are easy for customers to mix and match, both within her line and with other decor elements, fostering a sense of cohesion and harmony. The discussion also touches upon the timelessness of bold colors, citing historical examples such as Thomas Jefferson’s bright yellow dining room at Monticello and George Washington’s Prussian Blue room at Mount Vernon. These examples challenge the misconception that past interiors were always subdued in color, noting that the availability and colorfastness of pigments influenced historical perceptions. Atwood stresses that for bold colors to be timeless, quality is crucial, whether it pertains to paint, rugs, or furniture. Currently, Atwood expresses a particular fondness for various shades of green and gray-lilac, demonstrating her continuous engagement with color trends and personal preferences. #DecoratingWithColor #RebeccaAtwood #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorPsychology #FabricDesign #TimelessDesign #ChromaticNeutrals #DesignTips

Incorporating color into living spaces can significantly uplift the environment, and interior designers offer various strategies to achieve this effectively. Before introducing color, it is crucial to consider the intended use of the space and its natural light levels. Sam McNally, co-founder of Echlin, emphasizes assessing how a room will be utilized and whether one tends to tire of aesthetics quickly, advising against heavy investment in bright colors if frequent changes are preferred. For those new to incorporating color, a gradual approach is recommended. Charlotte Rey of Campbell-Rey suggests starting small and building up. Layering muted colors can also create an interesting and comforting atmosphere, even with seemingly bland tones like white, grey, or beige, by utilizing high-quality materials and diverse natural textures. For a more direct impact, statement walls are an effective method. Emma Deterding of Kelling Designs highlights that a vivid paint color or wallpaper on a single wall can dramatically transform a room. She advises choosing a color that is genuinely loved and applying it to all walls for a cohesive and refined look, ensuring it complements existing furniture and accessories. Judy Smith, a Crown color consultant, suggests painting an entire room, including walls, skirting, doors, cupboards, radiators, and window frames, in a single shade. This technique creates an illusion of a larger, more continuous, and open space, particularly effective with soft greyed blues, greens, or neutrals. If painting an entire room seems too bold, applying fresh colors in transitional areas like hallways or vestibules can make main rooms appear brighter by comparison, as noted by Kevin Isbell of Kevin Isbell Interiors. He also stresses the importance of coordinating paint colors with existing furniture. Creative solutions for adding color include painting stair risers, either with a single bold color or an ombre effect. Anna Jacobs, "The Color Doctor," suggests using painted temporary self-adhesive wallpaper for rental properties, allowing for easy removal. Murals, ranging from simple arched shapes to complex freehand designs, offer another avenue for artistic expression and color introduction. Statement furniture pieces, such as accent chairs or headboards in vivid prints, can infuse personality into a space, as they are long-term investments, according to Deterding. For beginners, incorporating easily exchangeable items like throws and cushions is advisable. Charlotte Rey notes that a "punchy" throw or a set of cushions can add color, recommending materials like silk or velvet for rich color movement. David Duncan of David Duncan Studio highlights the versatility of cushions, especially those with both colorful patterns and neutral sides, allowing for flexible aesthetic changes. Washi tape, a decorative adhesive tape, provides a temporary way to add subtle injections of color to furniture edges or entire pieces, suitable for renters. Color psychology plays a significant role in interior design, influencing mood and well-being. Richard Angel of Angel O'Donnell explains that yellow can induce happiness, blue calms and stimulates thought, and green promotes harmony and reduces anxiety. While these colors can enhance a home, he advises careful placement, suggesting yellow as an accent rather than a feature wall. Ultimately, colors chosen should align with the overall ambiance and existing interiors, maintaining a sense of continuity across spaces by selecting shades from the same tonal family. The goal is to use both bold and muted colors to enhance mental well-being, improve the feel of a space, and bring a home to life. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorPsychology #DesignTips #DIYHomeDecor #Furniture #AccentColors #SpacePlanning #RentalFriendlyDecor