“Red is the great clarifier-bright and revealing!” declared legendary American magazine editor Diana Vreeland (1903-1989).
Her words capture the essence of what’s now known as the unexpected red theory, a revived design trend making waves once again. This idea is simple yet tremendously powerful: adding a touch of red to a room, whether large or small, can transform the space in one single move, making it more appealing.
This simple, playful, and surprisingly versatile trend is especially applicable for tiles. Whether through a backsplash, a floor detail, or a subtle accent border.
Curious to learn where you could apply a dash of red? Read on to learn more.
What is Unexpected Red Theory?
Brooklyn-based interior designer Taylor Simon coined the unexpected red theory. She says it’s about adding a touch of red to a room where you might not ordinarily think to put it. The result is the pop of color immediately enlivens the space and provides a contemporary feel. By incorporating a red accent into a room, designers can bring energy to the space. Psychologically, red is associated with the release of dopamine, stimulation, and timeless vibrancy.
Why Tiles are Perfect for the Unexpected Red Theory
The use of tile is a perfect way of using the unexpected red theory design because its color and pattern can create a bold, statement-making addition of color. This ‘pop’ can break up the monotony, add warmth, and make the space much more memorable. Other reasons why tiles are such a great tool in the unexpected red theory include the following:
High Impact
Tiles cover larger surfaces than small objects, making a red tile a significant focal point, which can deliver that part of the ‘unexpected’ theory.
Versatility in Design
With tiles available in various patterns, textures, and shapes, the unexpected red theory can be as customized as you want it to be.
Balancing Statement
The red accent of tiles can be balanced with a complementary or subdued color scheme, such as lighter tones like beige or white, thereby preventing the room from becoming too overwhelming.
Psychological Effect
The color red has long been associated with grabbing the eye’s attention and evoking an emotional connection. Using the tile in a format enhances this effect by adding a tangible element of visual engagement to the design of a floor, kitchen backsplash, or accent wall.
Creative Ways to Apply the Theory with Tiles
To apply the unexpected red theory with tiles, consider introducing a surprising accent in the following ways.
Kitchen Applications
- Red tile backsplash: Incorporating a vibrant red tile backsplash can add a touch of style to a kitchen, particularly when paired with wooden countertops. This combination creates a mix of rustic and modern luxury.
- Red tile accents: Rather than using large, whole red tiles, why not use smaller red tiles as accents, such as a red tile from around a window or a red tile floor design? This will create a focal point.
Bathroom Applications
- Red tile in shower or floor: A small red tile area, like a shower floor niche or even a few red tile inserts on a floor, can provide a unique touch in an otherwise neutral bathroom.
- Bold red fixtures with tiles: By combining red tile with red fixtures, such as a red-tiled wall behind red faucets, you create a cohesive and bold look.
Hallway Applications
- Red tiled inlay: Why not consider adding a decorative red tile inlay or a strip of red tiles along the bottom of a neutral-toned hallway to create visual interest and guide the eye.
- Red tile on a stair riser: If you’re looking for a memorable and delightful way to add a certain ‘something’ to your otherwise neutral stairs, why not consider adding a small red tile design on the riser?
Design Tips for Success
Create a focal point
When applying the unexpected red theory its crucial to use the color sparingly so that the accent remains striking rather than overwhelming. Remember to use red to create a focal point. Examples could include a statement chair, a patterned rug or a red lighting fixture any one of these elements on their own can make a space more memorable. Subtle and intentional uses of the color red can create an incredibly strong visual impact.
Pair it with a neutral
In alignment with the unexpected red theory, pairing the color with a neutral one creates balance while enhancing the red’s impact. Together this ensures a cohesive look by allowing the red to stand out as a statement piece without overwhelming the overall design of the room. Opt for neutrals like beige, gray and black which provide a soothing backdrop, and make the red feel more sophisticated, modern or energetic depending on the specific combination and application.
Layer with neutral materials
Pairing red like our menorca volcano red 2.5 x 13 glossy ceramic tile with neutral materials including stone, wood or concrete is critical because it creates a high-contrast focal point. Additionally, it adds energy and vibrancy to the space as well as balances the intensity of the color. By using neutral materials it provides a calming base preventing the addition of the red from becoming overwhelming, allowing it to act as a statement without overpowering the space.
Glossy vs. matte red tiles
Pay close attention to the finish of the unexpected red theory finish you’re using. Glossy red tiles like our deep red 3x6 glass subway tile can add a bold and energetic feel, while matte options can offer a softer, subtle or more understated effect.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using red in every room
The unexpected element is overlooked if red is everywhere, thereby diminishing its impact. In turn, this makes the space feel chaotic as opposed to intentional.
Using red too much in one room
When using the unexpected red theory in interior design avoid large expanses of red, particularly in bedrooms or smaller spaces where it can become overwhelming and counter productive to creating a restful atmosphere.
Overlooking your home’s existing color scheme
Red accents should complement not clash with the existing color scheme in your home. Using a bright fire-engine red in a space where that doesn’t work can make the entire room look out of place.
Not creating enough contrast
Contrast is essential in order for a pop of red to be effective. For example, a single red cushion placed on a beige sofa might get overlooked. That’s why strategically placing several red pieces or ensuring there are other contrasting colors within the room will ensure the red won’t go unnoticed and will produce the desired effect.
The unexpected red theory in your space
The unexpected red theory proves that a small splash of color can completely change how a space feels. When incorporating tiles, the approach should be flexible, accessible and limitless regarding creativity. Remember to start small, that means maybe with a backsplash or stair detail, and steadily build confidence from there. By leaning into the unexpected red theory of interior design, you’ll be able to infuse energy, curiosity, surprise and timeless character into any room.
For more information on how to incorporate the unexpected red theory using tile, contact Oasis Tiles.
