Last week I was browsing through some photos of my kitchen in a former home when I lived in Portland. I had totally remodeled it shortly after I moved in. Since much of the wall area was covered with cabinets, doors, windows, and such, I chose a red paint to create a burst and energy to a busy area of my home

Many designers would concur that RED is a secret weapon that instantly adds a statement to a room. Even in small doses via a pillow, for example, it catches the eye. I also think red lifts your mood and is a happy color and introduces a ‘wow’ factor into your interior.

Red Kitchen

There is a shade of red for every decorating style and to match colors already existing in your home. For instance, I love red with shades of lime green. In traditional interiors red tends to be cranberry but in modern interiors it is more of a true red. Asian style often includes red. In a room with little light, it instantly brightens the room.

As a summer project, consider painting an old piece of furniture like a chair, chest or bench a bright red gloss paint. The furniture piece will quickly become the eye catcher in the room. On smaller pieces using a can of spray paint is an option after properly prepping the furniture.

Think of red as you think of how you select your nail color or lipstick or purse. If you have a built-in bookcase, consider painting the interior red or perhaps the ceiling of the powder room.

Here are some of my favorite reds from Benjamin Moore:
2004-20 Chili Pepper
2003-10 Million Dollar Red
1322 Ladybug Red
1309 Moroccan Red
1315 Poppy

Do you have a favorite red to share? Please share yours with a comment. More tips