If you’ve been reading up on any interiors news this week you’ll have seen the chatter about the ‘unexpected red theory’ which originated on Tik Tok with this video from creator Taylor Simon. And now everyone’s embracing it.

What is the unexpected red theory?

Taylor explains how a pop of red in an otherwise unassuming room where it seemingly wouldn’t match actually makes it look loads better. So whether it’s something as small as a red lampshade or a red cushion, or something more like a red wall, red curtains or red armchair. It adds fun, freshness, a lovely bold update however random it may seem. She shows a mostly green bathroom with a pair of red sinks and a hotel hallway with purple walls and red doors. And I have to admit, introducing red really does bring a touch of boldness and freshness to a space. It updates it, in a good way.

Why red? why not blue, or green, or yellow? “There is something about red, specifically,” Taylor Simon says. “It evokes so many different emotions, both positive and negative, that it grabs your attention.”

Following fashion trends

Interiors trends like these often follow fashion, and you may or may not have noticed, but bringing pops of red into an outfit has become popular over the past few seasons. So whether it’s a pair of tights, a hairband or a pair of red shoes, an injection of red - effectively brings some ‘wow’ to any ordinary outfit. And this concept is clearly working in the same way in interiors.

Here’s how I’m bringing red into my schemes

I’m not normally a huge fan of a red shade. Mainly because I personally don't find it particularly calming. However, I do love a burgundy for cosiness. I recently used Graham and Brown’s Nightshade on the ceiling of a snug and it made the space feel gorgeously cosy. I love an element of ‘wow’ in any interior space, so that’s why I’m finding myself very much here for this unusual way of adding a pop of colour and surprise to a home.

What’s more, I’m currently working on a living room scheme where we are incorporating a few pops of red to bring my client’s lovely artwork into the room. I’ve been looking at red armchairs, fireplace tiles and accessories. I’m teaming it with a lovely blue and mustard yellow which is looking dreamy.

Red as a neutral?

Taylor goes as far as to say red should be made a neutral. She’s saying it goes with everything. I think it depends on the look you’re going for but it certainly adds an element of drama to a scheme. It’s full of energy and I love the feeling of excitement it brings.
So maybe we’ll be saying goodbye to all the pinks from 2023 and embracing the reds this year.

My top three tips on introducing red into your home

If you fancy giving it a go, I’d firstly suggest trying it out with small items. So accessories like vases or photo frames, which can be easily replaced. Or try a lick of paint on an old piece of furniture.
Secondly, you need to find the right shade that complements the room. Most shades of red will pop against neutrals, but a richer shade of crimson will pair better with cool tones like blue or green. For a bolder look, try mixing bright cherry red with vivid colors like purple, teal, yellow, or even pink to really make a statement.

3. Unsure what shade of red to choose? Red is so bold and daring that is has to be used in a considered way, and in moderation. My fave red paints are the muddy, earthier shades rather than bright, electric tones. Farrow and Ball’s Eating Room Red. An elegant shade with burgundy hints which is great for a dining room or study. Or for some real dark drama, a gorgeous rich red is Preference Red - lovely for a ceiling in a cosy snug. Or Baked Cherry from Little Greene is an ultra sumptuous, bold crimson which may be best used as an accent on woodwork, windows or a piece of furniture. It’s definitely daring but would look impressive in a room full of neutrals.

I’m all for updating your home to give it that element of wow, that uplifting burst of energy. And so it seems that this unexpected red theory really does stack up. I can’t wait to try it in my own home!

Catch up with the latest Tik Tok trend: introducing the ‘unexpected red theory’