In BOH’s new series On Trend, we’re asking designers to share their favorite of-the-moment finds.
Though it’s one of the most elementary shades on the color wheel, rich red hues can be used in surprisingly sophisticated ways. “I think people are drawn to red as it is regal and creates tension, which brings excitement and life to a room,” Philip Gorrivan tells Business of Home. “It is evocative of love and passion yet can be versatile and in certain applications, feel like a neutral. Whether it is used in an English manor house, Park Avenue apartment, or Kips Bay Palm Beach room, red provides vibrancy and a timeless appeal.”
Curious, we asked Gorrivan and designers Paige Gray and Mel Bean to share three favorite crimson-colored pieces and how to incorporate them into a room.
Philip GorrivanMaura McEvoy
Gorrivan doesn’t shy away from color. Known for his nuanced approach to vibrant prints and hues, the New York–based designer relies on a mix of timeless patterns, touchable textures and eye-catching objects to forge warm but glamorous interiors that exude elegance.
Courtesy of Rose Cumming
SABU IN RED AND ROSE BY ROSE CUMMING
“
Rose Cumming's Sabu has a classic cheetah print that feels playful and a bit irreverent with its bold use of color. I'm actually using this timeless textile in my Kips Bay Palm Beach 2022 space on pillows that will be a focal point in the room.”
Courtesy of Philip Gorrivan Design
KINGSLAND IN FIG BY PHILIP GORRIVAN FOR BAKER
“I designed this red silk and wool mohair velvet for my collection with Baker, inspired by the rich red velvets one sees upholstered on furnishings in European palaces.”
Courtesy of Schumacher
DALTON SILK GINGHAM IN CERISE BY SCHUMACHER
“You can't go wrong with gingham. It is familiar yet can be used in unexpected ways. It inherently has dimension, with the repetition of perpendicular lines, yet layers well with other patterns.”
Paige GrayRenae Leboe
Gray strives to create spaces every bit as calming as they are beautiful. Beloved for her clean, coastal-inspired style, the British Columbia–based designer and cofounder of Parker & Harlow Interiors is not afraid to employ an unexpected hit of color to ensure her rooms feel both spirited and comfortable.
Courtesy of Knoll
WOMB CHAIR IN CATO FIRE RED BY EERO SARRINEN FOR KNOLL
“As a feature in a space, red really shines in midcentury pieces from iconic designers. There is something very evocative about embracing bold color in bold furniture pieces.”
Courtesy of Provide Home
TEIXIDORS THROW IN LIGHT GRAY AND TERRACOTTA BY PROVIDE HOME
“I’d toss this throw over a neutral gray sofa, or tuck it into a black or tan basket by the fireplace to make the subtle red detailing stand out a bit more against a neutral backdrop. Stitching is a very coastal touch, which we love to accent in our projects as it gives a non-traditional ode to nautical without feeling cliched.”
Courtesy of Anna Torfs
TRAAM HIGH AND LOW IN SMOKEY RED BY ANNA TORFS
“This would work well displayed independently as a feature on a dining room sideboard or entry table. I love the visual depth of using red within quality glass objects, not to mention that when/if you tire of an object, it's easy to tuck away for a while rather than needing to repaint or purchase new furniture.”
Mel BeanValerie Wei-Haas
Bean believes interiors should tell a story about the person who lives there. Thanks to her keen eye for bright hues, vivid patterns and luxurious finishes, the Tulsa, Oklahoma–based designer has earned a reputation for creating energetic interiors that don’t sacrifice livability.
Courtesy of Loom + Kiln
LIAM RUG BY LOOM + KILN
“I prefer tomato red, ideally with texture or interest to soften it a bit. One of my favorite ways to achieve this is with a beautiful vintage rug. The proper rug, for me, launches the vision for an entire living room! Runners in your hallway, kitchen or even bathroom can make a real difference.”
Courtesy of The Urban Electric Co.
CRANE PENDANT BY THE URBAN ELECTRIC CO.
“I love to incorporate red details in surprising ways for layers and impact. This pendant light with red shades is a perfect example. It combines a classic design with a fun personality! A chandelier like this translates well across many design styles.”
Courtesy of Rebecca Atwood
DOTTED FLORAL FABRIC IN RUBY BY REBECCA ATWOOD
“If you are looking for a commitment-free way to try out the trend, consider a patterned fabric with small pops of red. This one from
Rebecca Atwood would work beautifully as throw pillows, roman shades or drapery.”
Homepage photo: A room designed by Philip Gorrivan | Brian Doben
