What is the Unexpected Red Theory and How Can I Apply it?
The unexpected red theory suggests that including a bold and unexpected element, such as red, can grab attention and create even more visual interest. While we are going to explore the color red, we also want to look at other ways infusing unexpected elements can accomplish the same effect.
Red is a color that instantly grabs your attention, which is why you see it so often in packaging. Think back through well-known images of art and interiors you’ve seen. Piet Mondrian, a famous Dutch painter, David Hicks, an English interior designer, Salvador Dali, a Spanish artist, and Dorothy Draper, an American Interior Designer, all used red in unexpected ways to make bold statements.
The unexpected red theory breaks free of conventional norms by including bold and unexpected elements that disrupt the narrative of a space. While red is often the go-to for this purpose, there are other ways to grab attention and create unexpected visual interest.
Bold statement walls are one way to start. Whether it’s an unexpected wallpaper, unconventional millwork that contrasts with the architecture, cladding the wall in a dimensional material, or even creating a focal point on the ceiling, these are all ways to grab attention and leave a lasting impression.
Introducing adventurous furniture or accessories can also command attention. Whether it is a vibrant and colorful chair or an intriguing sculpture, it will draw the eye and add interest and depth to the overall design.
We already mentioned Piet Mondrian, but artist Henri Matisse was also known for his use of red, and these types of artworks have stood the test of time and only increased in value for a reason. While most of us can’t afford pieces from these artists, there are plenty of artists and works out there that can accomplish a similar effect. The trick is to ensure the piece does not follow the norm and has the ability to captivate.
A bold textile is another way to add the unexpected to a room. There are many beautiful and boldly colored vintage area rugs that, when introduced to a primarily neutral palette, would pop and grab attention. If you want less of a commitment, look to daring pillows and throw blankets to engage the eye.
When experimenting with this theory, red does not have to be the go-to color. The theory is really about including something unexpected. The most memorable spaces always have something unexpected, unconventional, or interesting in them. Find something that draws your eye and fascinates, and build around it.
