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We see it in the projects of the biggest design names out there, from Sarah Sherman Samuel to Leanne Ford to Jeremiah Brent: ultra-neutral, whitewashed, beige-on-beige, oak wood–filled projects. And frankly, we’re in awe of their restraint to keep every single piece in the palette. Yet lately, we’ve been inspired by a pop of color to break up the beige. Well, not just any color: bright, fire-engine red. Think of it as the evolution of tomato girl summer—but far less specific and with a bit more longevity.
The trend has already made its way into our closets and even our sock drawers. Just one crimson touch, whether that’s a pair of Adidas or a sweater thrown over the shoulders, can transform the simplest outfit. But rather than a drape a scarf around your neck, why not see red in a throw blanket across your bed, the pillows on your sofa, or any other accent pieces in whitewashed company? Just like it does for your sartorial style, introducing the hue brings a lighthearted cheekiness to a room while also adding an unexpected focal point. Start with our 26 picks, below.
Kitchen Cuties
Red accents lend a touch of retro to cook spaces. Just peek at designer Nick T. Poe’s kitchen; the red trash can and espresso machine add a heritage Americana look to an otherwise neutral space. The color is also welcome in a table setting, giving dinner parties festive energy through serveware, linens, and more.
Red Salt & Pepper Grinder, Alessi
Serenity Porcelain Dinner Plate, Themis Z
Omar Strong Coral Vase, West Elm
Everyday Salad Serving Set, Nashi
Lobster Salt & Pepper Set , The Ark Elements
Off-White & Red Small Bowl, Bombac
Red Fantasia 5 Piece Place Setting by Mepra, Amazon
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Defenders Steel Step Trash Can, Amazon
Striped Tablecloth, Zara Home
Illy X1 Anniversary ESE & Ground Espresso Machine, Sur la Table
Details, Details, Details
The beauty of this trend is that it doesn’t take much to dig in. A single picture frame, decorative bowl, or tabletop organizer can offer the touch you’re looking for.
Duplum Mirror, DWR
Mongolian Cashmere Throw, Quince
Magazine Rack by Giotto Stoppino for Kartell, Lumens
Petal Plate, Sophie Lou Jacobsen
Glazed Stoneware Candlestick, H&M Home
Sobremesa Vase, Hay
Rexite Multiplor Rotating Desk Organizer, MoMA
Wavy Picture Frame by The Conran Shop, Nordstrom
More Than Just a Pop
In a room full of neutral furniture, these picks will add contrast with a bang rather than a soft pop. Some of our favorite large-ticket items are the least expensive, too, like IKEA’s $125 bentwood chair or Urban Outfitters’s powder-coated metal desk for $199. So go bold—we’ll be here rooting for you.