Working With a Red Color Scheme

When you think of a bold color, red is probably the first thing that comes to mind. People associate red with strength, power, energy and positivism, all the things that good home design should convey. That's why red is the perfect color scheme for modern décor, which is all about breaking out of the mold. If you're looking for a new color to jazz up your old room colors, red is definitely one your best bets. Here are some tips to help you get started.

Use it in pairs. Since it's a strong color, red is best used in combination with a mode muted shade. Using red as your dominant hue, look for other colors that look great against it but don't wash it out. Neutral colors like white and cream work well, but you can also try pastel shades like blue or gray. You can also add a third color for accent, but don't use more than three or your room will look too messy.

Choose an interesting pattern. Patterns are also a great way to tone down the red and keep it from overpowering the room. Because it incorporates other shades or colors, you don't get too much red in one piece. If you're not sure how to coordinate, just make sure you don't put two different patterns side by side. For example, if you have patterned upholstery, you should get plain red pillow cases and vice versa.

Decorate with rugs. Area rugs are a great way to introduce red into your home. Because they can be moved around, you don't have to be too careful about using bold shades or prints. Use a red rug to jazz up an otherwise plain floor, or place it under your furniture to define your sitting or gathering space. If your room is large enough, you can even use two red rugs to make it look more organized.

Look for soft textures. A plain red wall can be overwhelming, but imagine it with a sheer drape or a textured paint treatment. Texture helps soften the look of a red theme and make it look more welcoming, while still keeping with the theme. Look for thick, luscious red rugs, lace curtains, or textured slipcovers.

Red is the new must-have color for modern homes. This guide shows you how to make the shift and add red to your d