What Colours Go With Red?

Looking to turn up the temperature in your home? The red corner of the colour wheel is the way to go. Whether you're keeping it low-key with muted shades or want to go all out with more vibrant colours, red is the perfect hue.

Bringing instant warmth to any room, red can reinvigorate a space that's long overdue for an image overhaul. A great choice for bedrooms and lounges, this enticing colour can also be put to good use in spaces like dining rooms.

Think like an interior designer and use different shades to add depth to a larger room. Alternatively, choose an arresting red for a feature wall, then introduce some warm neutrals into the mix.

Choosing the right colour to complement red can be a challenge. However, finding the right tone to enhance a ruby-infused interior is easier than you might think. From mint green and sky blue to more vibrant shades, there's no shortage of choice if you're looking for a classic colour combination.

The Range of Red Paint Colours

Rather than overwhelm the senses, red walls can bring an intimate ambience to any space. You can use a pastel-inspired raspberry red to keep things more neutral or take opt for a more eye-catching shade to create drama. 

If you're a fan of primary colours, don't be afraid to experiment with bold hues and brighter shades. This colour is remarkably versatile, meaning you don't have to limit your decor schemes to red accents. 

In open-plan living spaces, a neutral shade with warm undertones is an ideal choice. You can get to maximise natural light, without having to say goodbye to more daring tones from the colour palette. 

In entertaining spaces like dining areas, think about using a more saturated red. Richer reds have an inviting quality and work beautifully alongside honey-toned wood and natural accents. 

What Goes With Red?

Worried that you'll struggle to find complementary colours that work red? Rather than restricting your design choices, red works nicely with all manner of colours. 

If you're using basic colour wheel theory, red and blues make the perfect partnership. This is one of the most classic colour combinations around.  If you're using a deeper red, think about pairing it with navy blue.

If you're using a more subtle crimson, an olive green or pale yellow will work well. However, dark green and forest green paint colours can also produce impressive results. 

Off Whites

Looking to pair red with white walls? A subtle hint of crimson or raspberry can give an otherwise neutral room an instant lift.

If you want to use an off-white hue, you'll need to think carefully about the red you're using. Try an elegant shade like Kestrel L478. It may look like a dark brown at first glance, but some cool red undertones make it a sophisticated design choice. 

As this is a cooler red, it's best to pair it with a blue-infused off-white. Seagull F496 fits the bill nicely. This icy white is underscored with a subtle touch of blue, making it a fine choice for a neutral room. 

Looking for a livelier pairing? Use a blood orange like Tomato M316 to bring some energy to your interiors. Although a lighter choice, this pair colour has plenty of character and pairs well with all manner of secondary colours. 

While you can introduce all manner of greens and citrus tones into the mix, stick to an off-white as your key accent colour. A light grey like Concrete Mixer will work perfectly here. 

Greys

If you want a classic combination that will stand the test of time, think about pairing grey with your red of choice. 

To avoid your space looking washed out, start with a more intense red like Madras N411. As the name suggests, this earthy red is full of fiery flavour. 

Use a pale grey like Bungalow G500 to balance things out. With its cool blue undertones, it's the perfect counterpoint to that fiery red pigment. 

Looking for a playful red to revitalise your interiors? Try a coral red like Reef M319. A great choice for bedrooms and eclectic living room interiors, this one's an instant crowd-pleaser.

A rich grey like Salvador Sky will pair wonderfully with this coral hue. This chalky mint has some very subtle green undertones, which will give your red-inspired decor added depth.

Neutrals

When in doubt, stick to neutrals when decorating with red. Incredibly versatile, you can use them as generously as you want. 

Want to make a statement with a more intense red? Try something like Rooibos M476. This deep burnt red will create a cocooning ambience in smaller spaces, but it's also perfect for things like feature walls. 

Use yellow as your inspiration when choosing a complementary colour. Coconut Y456 is something to consider. This creamy hue makes a fine swap for a pure white, while muted yellow undertones add a gentle touch of sunshine to your interiors.

If you're not afraid of embracing a red colour palette, consider using something like Pomegranate M423. This crimson red has a majestic purple quality, while its warm undertones make it a fine choice for living spaces.

Keep things simple with a rich neutral like Semolina G398. This warm cream can be used in place of classic white. If your room is calling out for more complexity, think about adding a red patterned rug to your floors.

Light Pinks

Pairing pink with red might seem like overkill. However, lighter pinks can enhance a red interior wonderfully. 

If you want to start with something subtle, try using Sunday H480. This soft beige is a dream alternative to everyday neutrals, while a delicate hint of pink brings some personality. 

Lean into earthy paint colours when selecting complementary colours. A deep brown like Kestrel L478 will bring balance, with those cool red undertones delivering adding intensity.

If you're a fan of blush hues and dusky palettes, kick off your design project with something like Maiden X420. This chic peach is a luxurious upgrade from classic taupe and makes a welcome addition to contemporary interiors. 

To add drama, use a muted blush like Sir Galahad Red. Use it liberally in a two-tone interior, or save it for those architectural details or period design features.