Three Cheers for Red

See how this popular hue can be a big star in a small space.

Many rules in design are meant to be broken. For example, "they" say bold color should be limited to large rooms. Well "they" couldn't be more wrong! This sunny breakfast nook, while petite in size, shows off big ideas for using powerful shades of red. Homeowner and decorator Val Froneberger of Wilmington, North Carolina, shares tips you can try in your own home.

Go for Bold

When you have little wallspace, kick up the color a notch. This spicy tomato hue adds instant warmth to a room encased by windows. It's also repeated on the French-style breakfast table, which brings a sense of balance to the room. Pairing the table with buttery yellow dining chairs creates a happy but relaxed look.

Call Off the Curtains

Fabric in this space is limited to the chair seats. People often think there must be cloth on windows to add a cozy element. But there's no need to cover up all those panes when the view is so beautiful. Instead, Val chose to hang artwork on the window frames.

Add Accessories

No room is complete without a few knickknacks. A red tole tray adds another hint of that favorite hue. Topped with black-and-white candles and an olive jar vase, the table is guest-ready.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Feb 2007
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