Imagine scrolling through endless home decor inspiration, only to discover a hidden thread pulling everything together. This is precisely what happened to Brooklyn-based interior decorator Taylor Migliazzo Simon. From powder rooms to master bedrooms, a vibrant pop of red seemed to elevate every space.
Intrigued by this observation, Simon took to TikTok in January 2024, sparking a viral trend with her "unexpected red theory." The theory posits that a strategic splash of crimson, big or small, can instantly revitalize a room. From antique prints framed in scarlet borders to modern side tables painted a fiery red, Simon's video showcased the transformative power of this unexpected color choice.
With over a million views and widespread discussion across social media platforms, the question remains: is the "unexpected red" strategy truly a design game-changer?
Interior stylist Gillian Lawlee from Cork, Ireland, readily confirms the power of red, particularly against cool-toned spaces dominated by greens. "It's basic color theory," she explains. Red and green's opposing positions on the color wheel create a dynamic contrast, automatically generating visual interest.
But the impact goes beyond aesthetics. Remember those stop signs and fire engines? Our primal instincts play a role. Studies suggest red excels at grabbing human attention, a legacy from our hunter-gatherer ancestors drawn to the color of ripe berries and fresh meat. "Red is nature's signal color," confirms Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute. Adding a touch of red to a neutral space naturally jolts the eye and heightens our appreciation for the entire room.
Ready to embrace the unexpected red trend in your own home? Simon suggests starting small. Swap out a neutral throw pillow for a crimson one, or introduce a red lampshade for a subtle yet impactful change. For a bolder statement, Lawlee recommends incorporating the color onto hard surfaces like side tables or chairs. Her living room exemplifies this concept perfectly, featuring a cherry red pub stool standing out vibrantly against a green and white striped sofa and powder blue walls.
Nashville designer Bartholomew utilizes a more restrained approach, incorporating thin red trims on a duvet, wall borders, and picture frames. These subtle linear elements add depth and drama to a traditional blue and white color scheme.
New York designer Ariel Okin demonstrates red's power as a "clarifier." In a stylish Upper West Side kitchen, she complements a bottle-green leather banquette with a series of abstract apple paintings. This creates a striking contrast without resembling a Christmas color scheme. Pale blue cushions on nearby rattan chairs provide a calming counterpoint.
Not all reds are created equal. Lawlee emphasizes the importance of choosing a shade that aligns with your desired effect. "Earthy reds feel timeless and sophisticated, while orange-leaning reds offer a more vibrant and playful appeal," she explains.
Red's potency demands a balanced approach. "Red is a bold color that can easily veer from striking to overwhelming," cautions Eiseman. Just as the perfect shade of red lipstick can elevate an outfit, a touch of red can do wonders for your interior design. Skip the fiery sofa or expensive persimmon rug – a vintage book with a crimson cover or a vibrant kantha quilt draped over an ottoman can achieve the "unexpected red" look without overpowering the space.
For those with a mild fear of red (erythrophobia, to be precise), Eiseman suggests a temporary experiment. A bouquet of vibrant flowers allows you to test the theory without a permanent commitment. If your mood or design preferences change, the blooms will simply fade away.
