Unexpected red: kitchen edition

27th February 2024
large kitchen with red chair

The ‘unexpected red theory’ is 2024’s first big social interiors trend. According to Livingetc the ‘unexpected red theory’ is the idea that adding a flash of bright, and unexpected, red to a space will instantly make it feels more sophisticated, designed and elevated. We’ve had a look back through our client projects and can certainly see this being the case in our kitchens.

Choosing red furniture and fabrics is an easy way to add some unexpected red. This is especially true in well-balanced spaces where unexpected red (like this armchair) serves to soften the polished look. Red is also a perfect foil to green, so always feels coherent in green kitchens whatever the shade.

Our designers often encourage clients to use a bold pop of colour inside a pantry larder or breakfast dresser, and the use of red here is both unexpected and incredibly effective. Red helps transform this home bar, making the space feel bold and confident.

A failsafe way to add colour to kitchens is to paint the island, it’s great a way to add a pop of colour and can be easily updated. This burgundy red island paired with soft blush cabinets has an almost jewel-like feel and is certainly unexpected in this space.  

Open shelves are the perfect place to add a flash of unexpected red. We love this client’s bold appliance choices with a red Magimix and Le Creuset pan complementing the copper accents while really standing out in this kitchen. 

If you want to discover ways of using red in your own home, contact our designers.