What’s trending: why red is on the rise in interior design

Is red the new green or navy in kitchen design, I wonder as I spot new cabinetry, colourful stone surfaces, and smaller decorative pieces all drenched in this fiery shade…

Back in 2024, the ‘Unexpected Red’ theory took over our interiors; and ever since, this hue has become a go-to decorating shade. Looking at recent trends, including the popular ‘drenching’ technique, it’s clear renovators are no longer shy when using colour – now, they’re welcoming bolder design approaches and picking up more daring palettes.

And as a result, the industry is responding with gorgeous new launches. This September, for example, kitchen brand Tom Howley has unveiled its new sumptuous, limited-edition Sumac colourway – a deep, heritage-inspired red.

Sumac, Tom Howley’s new colour for 2025.

What’s more, purply-red Calacatta Viola marble is the stone of the moment, and with the autumn and winter season is full effect, you are bound to spot dark burgundies and berry tones everywhere, from paint and wallpaper to soft furnishings and furniture.

So, if you are also tempted to embrace this colour in all its beauty, check out this kitchen inspiration gallery packed with design ideas, from rustic reds to damson. Red is the ideal colour for infusing your interiors with warmth, plus it suits a range of styles, from modern handleless cabinets to classic Shaker doors.

Burgundy kitchen design with brass accents through the island, hardware, and extractor canopy.
Kitchen by Herringbone House.
Rustic kitchen design with a burgundy island.
Henley cabinetry, from £14,000, Neptune. As seen in the home of Olive and Hugo Guest, owners of Glebe House.
Dark wine-coloured cabinetry with marble surfaces.
 Shaker kitchen in Malbec, 1909 Kitchens.

Also on my radar…

However, if you prefer a richer red, why not decorate with cherry – a brighter alternative to damson and deep burgundy. Unsure where to start? Follow the principle of the ‘Unexpected Red’ theory, and add a dash of colour to your interiors through a statement chest of drawers, a chic lamp, or soft furnishings. And if you are feeling confident, you can splash your favourite tone on the walls, floors, and even the ceiling, for a cocooning feeling.

Since red is a fiery shade, it has the potential to feel overwhelming, so make sure you choose a colour palette which oozes energy and stimulates you positively. For more design ideas, click here.

Colourful bedroom design with a red floor lamp and quirky decorations.
Jam Glass Dome floor lamp, Houseof.
Country chic kitchen design with a white cabinetry run and a statement red island.
Tectonic Oak Chevron, Chaunceys Timber Flooring. Design by Pringle & Pringle. Photography: Alexander James.
  • Add warmth and interest to your design with a charming pop of red, whether that’s a fluted basin in your bathroom or a statement side table with hand-carved detailing.
  • Staying in is the new going out (and, as a homebody, I’m oh-so-happy about this). So, get that restaurant-like atmosphere in your interiors, when gathering friends and family over to yours, with luxurious velvet bar stools, designer table lamps, amber glassware and accent drinks carts.
  • Pretty pastels are unexpectedly making an appearance this autumn and winter season. Embrace these chalky colours with the latest launches, from Staub’s new Sorbet Rose colourway to Dualit’s calming Sage and Sandstone available across its Classic and Lite collections.
Red and pastels moodboard with velvet bar stools, patterned tiles, sage green applianves and coloured glassware.
1. Harbour Concrete 520mm fluted rectangular countertop basin in Brick Red, £199.99, Drench. 2. Broste Copenhagen Amber white wine glass, £55, champagne glass, £55, and cocktail glass, £65, Folk Interiors. 3. Talasa side table in Red, £245.83, Oka. 4. Evelyn Toffee Red velvet bar stool, £269, Danetti. 5. Takeout portable table light in Brass, £275, Buster + Punch. Launching in November. 6. Classic kettle, £159.99, and four-slot Classic toaster, £219.99, both in Sage, available from September, Dualit. 7. Nebula tiles in Spring Blooms and Night Sky, £50 per sq m, Ca’ Pietra x B&Q. 8. Round cast iron Cocotte in Sorbet Rose, £279 for 24cm, Staub. 9. Glass pastels candleholder trio set, 38, Natalia Willmott. 10. Remi gold scalloped drinks trolley, £225, Oliver Bonas.

Spotted on social

Of course, the algorithm knows exactly what I’m into at the moment – gorgeous red kitchen designs. I love how the neutral wall panelling allows the classic cabinetry to sing, complemented by the sleek stone and rustic wood countertops.

This bathroom design oozes sophistication, from the cream wall panelling, curved, tiled enclosure of the dark red walk-in shower to the matching freestanding tub on the opposite side of the room and sleek chrome brassware.

I admit, I am a big fan of burgundy (once autumn rolls around, you can spot me dressed in this shade, matching lip gloss and all). So, when I saw this dreamy wardrobe design, I had to include it in this roundup. It’s elegant yet modern with textured furniture, a curved island with a veiny tabletop, and accent lighting.

Will you embrace this colour palette, whether in your interiors or lifestyle?

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