There is an interior design end that circulates on Tiktok, and you probably didn’t see it coming: the “unexpected red” theory.
Originally introduced by Creator Taylor SimonThe theory is the idea of ”adding everything that is red, big or small, to a room where it does not match at all, and it automatically looks better.” Whether it is lively red pedestal sinking in a moody Salvia green bathroom or red Dressed headboard Against a purple accent wall, Simon suggests that the color is an idiot -proof addition to all palette. She even makes the case for red as a neutral.
For starters, that concept can seem surprising. Red does not seem to be the best color to update your bedroom with, and usually skew neutral more muted and subtle – light shades of white, cream and gray or dark variations of black, brown and carbon. In other words, they are universal colors that mate with anything. But with that logic, the unexpected red theory may be on something. If Red really looks good in every room, in some scenario, why shouldn’t we call it a neutral?
We asked a professional to weigh. Forward, interior architect Emma Beryl helps break down the unexpected red theory and further split Decoration tips About how to integrate red at home.
Experts displayed in this article
Emma Beryl is a New York City-based interior designer.
What is the unexpected red theory?
The unexpected red theory is the idea that an extra pop of red-i a piece of furniture, as a sofaor a minor accent, as a Table lamp – will make all the spaces look better. But where these red accents really shine? In areas where they probably do not belong or should not look good based on the color of the room or the objects they are close.
Beryl does not necessarily believe that this makes red to a neutral color, which the theory also nods. Instead, she thinks the color is simply lively to stand out and catch your attention, regardless of context. “(Red) goes well with almost everything, but don’t be fooled,” she tells PS. “It goes well, but it is striking and usually the star in the show when it is added as a surprise element that the unexpected red theory suggests.”
If you are still stubborn at how or why the unexpected red theory works, it is important to consider tones and the color wheel. “I feel that there is no other color like red on the color wheel, so adding it to any space really notices that object,” says Beryl. “It’s both warm and cool at the same time. It goes well with cooler colors like blues and green, as well as warmer colors such as oranges and yellow.” Although red may never be officially called a neutral, it has similar properties that make it both versatile and unique.
How to implement the unexpected red theory in your own space
There are no hard and quick rules to decorate your own space, but if you want any tips to try the unexpected red theory at home, Berry has any suggestions.
Start small. “Integrate all the colors you are not 100 percent sure is the easiest by decor because it is smaller. To add a red pop through a vase Or a lampshade can be an eye -catching moment, she says. And if you want to get bigger? Try a larger furniture, as a Lounge chair or Did bruise. “The unexpected red theory points to an article being red in space, so choose something in your comfort zone.”
Think of your color palette. Although red can pair with anything, Beryl is particularly fond of using it with all neutrals: “Red becomes the point of contact and attracts the eye even more,” she says. She also likes to use it in streamlined color palettes. “I like to see (red) in a room that is very tailor made with a strong color palette in two or three colors, like a room with blue and green and pattern, or yellow and orange, so red pop really stands out.”
Try something other than red. Not in red? The theory can work in the same way with other colors, such as pink and green. “Pink to be close to red makes sense because it draws similar feelings, but green reminds people of nature, so adding a pop of green can calm the mind,” says Beryl.
If you think you fall in love with the little pop of red in your space, don’t be afraid to add the unexpected red theory to other aspects of your life as well. For example, you can pair a neutral outfit with a pop of Red lipstick or Red heels With an otherwise completely black “fit. Chances are that you will quickly realize why red can only be the most superior color of them all.
Carrie Carrollo is a PS Contributor and was previously the brand’s associate branded beauty editor.
