Go Bold with These Designer-Approved Shades of Red
From sumptuous and sexy to earthy and cozy.
Joy, love, passion, and vigor: There's never been a color that has held more power or significance than red. The fiery shade has been making a statement since the Paleolithic era, where ground red ochre decorated cave walls from Africa to Australia. Ancient Roman leaders, emperors of the Han Dynasty in China, and even Queen Elizabeth I wore red clothing as a symbol of prestige and authority.
Today, red continues to reign as one of the most utilized shades for artists and designers throughout the world. Its ability to instantly add depth to and inject energy into a room is intoxicating, making it an invaluable secret weapon for countless decorators. To make the search for the perfect red easier, we've asked designers to let us in on which paint colors offer that "wow" moment every time they use them. Get ready to turn up drama with these 10 brilliant red paint colors for your home.
Chili Pepper by Benjamin Moore
"We recently used this shade at the SF Decorator’s Showcase for our #nodramallama Jack & Jill bathroom and painted our vanity this shade. It was the happiest, brightest, most cheerful shade of red. Its boldness helped make the vanity a statement and focal point of the room." —Dina Bandman of Dina Bandman Interiors
Terre D' Egypte by Farrow & Ball
"If cozy terra-cotta is the move, I adore Farrow & Ball's Terre D'Egypte. It is perfect in full gloss on a powder room ceiling. " —Kelsey Dobyns of Katie Leede and Company
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Deep Rose by Benjamin Moore
"Such a happy, clear red, but mellowed with just a touch of umber to take the edge off." —Tom Stringer of Tom Stringer Design Partners
Greenhow Vermillion by Benjamin Moore
A brilliant scarlet shade, Greenhow Vermillion pays homage to the rich pigments covering the walls of homes crafted during the 18th and 19th centuries. Designer Anthony Baratta used the unique color throughout his redecoration of the Palmer House at Colonial Williamsburg.
Fireweed by Sherwin-Williams
“It’s called International Orange, although through my eye it’s a rusty red. I like it for the obvious association with the Golden Gate Bridge, but also because of its complexity. It changes (as do most colors) based on the lighting.” —John Ike of Ike Kligerman Barkley
Radicchio by Farrow & Ball
"If a bright, modern red with a hint of magenta is called for, Farrow & Ball's Radicchio hits a sumptuous, sexy note—especially in a bedroom." —Kelsey Dobyns of Katie Leede and Company
Salsa Diane by PPG
"The bright red tones blended with overtones of pink and orange signify optimism, cheeriness, and being forward-looking." —Tom Stringer of Tom Stringer Design Partners
Heritage Red by Benjamin Moore
"We recently used this shade to paint our client’s exterior front door. The name says it all—it truly is a stunning, classical (heritage) red. The exact shade of red you would expect a proud, stout front door to be." —Dina Bandman of Dina Bandman Interiors
Picture Gallery Red by Farrow & Ball
This rich brick red is based on the color found on the walls of the gallery at Attingham Park in England. Its earthy undertones have caught the eye of countless designers, including Nathan Turner, who used it in the guest rooms at Alisal Ranch.
Ruby Dusk by Benjamin Moore
"This is a favorite red that seems borne out of a vineyard. This claret red is just right for cocktails and conversation." —Tom Stringer of Tom Stringer Design Partners
Sarah DiMarco is the Assistant Editor at VERANDA, covering all things art, design, and travel, and she also manages social media for the brand.
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