13 Colors That Go with Red, Because in 2021, Your Home Should Be Anything But Boring

“A monochromatic color scheme involves selecting a single color and then using that color in a variety of shades that vary in lightness and saturation to create a clean, sophisticated look,” Wadden says. An analogous color scheme entails choosing one main color, then selecting a handful of shades that are close on either side of that main color on the color wheel.

In complementary color schemes, decide on a dominant color, then select complementary colors that are directly across from it on the color wheel, which adds contrast. “This method of basic color theory works for matching color, as well as understanding how to work with their undertones,” Wadden adds.

Next: How to Decorate With Red

Because red is often associated with strong emotions like power, passion and energy, using too much can overwhelm the space. Wadden recommends using red in spaces where you want to feel energized, like a home office, or where you want to really connect with other people. “Communal rooms–like kitchens, living rooms and dining rooms–can handle the fiery hue,” she notes.

Wadden also suggests using touches of red in the kitchen, like on a kitchen island, because of the color’s strong connection with food (yep, it goes beyond plating!). Using red sparingly can liven up the space without making it look like a drive thru, especially if you choose a shade beyond ketchup. “Consider the full spectrum of reds, which range from rich, moody maroon and oxblood to crisp, happy tomato red,” says designer Seana Freeman, aka Glamohemian Girl on IG (@bellybaila). “Reds are incredibly varied. There is bound to be one you like!”

Not only can red look great on walls and major focal points like a kitchen island, but it can work famously on wood paneling or trim. “Try it on a front or back door, an entry hall, or around the TV or fireplace in a living room,” Wadden says. “Tonal reds, such as red-brown or merlot, are sophisticated and add elevated elegance to a space. To encourage conversation around the dining table, consider painting just the ceiling red.”

13 Colors That Go with Red

Neutrals in general work with red, but Seana suggests pairing red with white, in particular, to make a punchy, graphic statement. The reds will stand out as the star while the white helps establish a “clean slate.” It’s sleek without skewing boring.

“Nearly all shades of orange look great with red because they create dimensionality,” Freeman says. Orange is also a close color on the color wheel, offering a scheme close to the monochromatic technique.

Wadden tapped lighter, muted blues as great companions to a number of red shades. “For the more tonal reds, I recommend a softer blue,” she says.

Freeman says that many shades of red benefit from a metallic pairing, gold especially. Both have warm undertones that can brighten up a room.

Charcoal and red can create a moody yet sophisticated space. A darker shade of gray, which is still within “neutral” bounds, charcoal adds a little more drama to your space.

Wood and stainless steel can help mellow out louder colors like red, and they incorporate more of an earthy and lived-in feel that allows you to get cozy with even the brightest reds.

Similar to light pink, apricot can add charm and elegance to your red-toned room without falling into the monochromatic theme. Plus, it’ll brighten up the room without competing against brighter reds (though it works famously well with darker, crimson-y reds).

While cream can work with just about any red, Wadden notes that cream and crimson are an A-plus pairing. “Crimson colors are boldly modern yet infused with historic influences,” she says. “When paired with natural hues like cream, red takes center stage with a sense of cultivated beauty.”