The Power of Red
By Ariana DiPierno
As designers, we understand that the color red is powerful. We typically look to it as an accent color or focal point, to emphasize and draw attention. It makes perfect sense that we use it in this way, seeing as it’s the first color humans see after black and white. Its significance has varied among different societies throughout history, ranging from being used by Stone Age hunters and gatherers for body paint, to the modern-day association with love, power, and Valentine’s Day. Red may be a primary color, but its meaning and application continues to evolve alongside us.
A Look Back in Time
Throughout history, we have seen red being used for communicating strength or protection, and also as a symbol of love. Though Carl Jung is credited as a pioneer of color psychology in the early 20th century, one of the first works documenting color theories was published back in 1810 by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Psychology tells us that colors have an effect on us behaviorally, emotionally, and physiologically, and it is clear that these effects have been known for a long time.
Dating back to over 40,000 years ago, red clay was ground up and used as body paint by Stone Age hunters and gatherers, likely to demonstrate strength and protection. The people of the Paleolithic period used Red Ochre in their cave paintings depicting animals and people, as well as in powder form as a protective measure from evil spirits in the afterlife. It has often been used in religious contexts, playing an important role in symbolizing the blood of Christ in Christianity and Christian iconography. To show authority and strength, it was also common to see red textiles and garments worn by Kings in the middle ages.
In contrast to being a symbol of strength, protection, and authority, red has also served as a symbol of love, prosperity, and luck. Stones like Carnelian have been worn to enhance passion, love and desire, and have been seen in jewelry associated with worship of the Goddess Hathor, the goddess of love and joy. We also see traditional red garments worn in wedding ceremonies during the Roman times, as well as the wedding traditions originating from India and China.
The Accent Color
Because of its long standing history of intense associations, in a design context, red is usually reserved for a powerful accent. Whether that's in graphic design, wayfinding design, or interiors, red always successfully commands attention. For that reason, designers usually utilize it intentionally.
Ways in which red is typically used as a focal point or powerful accent in interior design:
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A thoughtfully placed accent wall to draw attention to a certain area.
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Red accent pillows that exhibit color contrast.
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A large scale upholstery accent, such as a piece of furniture.
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A small scale upholstery accent, such as an ottoman or upholstered coffee table.
Tartan | Contract Interiors, LLC
Going Beyond the Accent
Sometimes we find ourselves molding our thought process around what is customary or trendy. After all, as designers, our design decisions are made for the end users of a space and their needs, not necessarily our own personal tastes. But what if we were to rethink the power of red? What if we were able to leverage its power in new and exciting ways that could contribute to its continued evolution?
We are already observing this shift in the A+D industry and beyond. Whether it be the discovery of the health benefits of infrared light, its increased presence on the runways at fashion week, or its boldness being embraced by a rise of saturated color choices and the shift of eclectic design to the mainstream. This rise in popularity, specifically in fashion, is informing tastes and buying decisions, thereby influencing our design relationship with the color. Maybe now red is starting to evolve to be more than just a thoughtful accent.
Xorel Artform Waveline | Woods Bagot NY | Photo by Filip Wolak
Ways in which our designers love utilizing red beyond the accent:
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Embrace a maximalist approach and leverage its accent power by using more red details in a space.
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Vary the hue – create a more dynamic visual by playing with hues and textures. (This might be especially interesting on an entire layout of furniture!)
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Tie in an accent wall with the addition of an artful acoustic layout of red wrapped panels to enhance the overall interior design.
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In spaces that allow for a more experimental approach, consider using red wallcoverings or drapery in nontraditional red hues.
The power of red has historically existed on either side of a polarizing spectrum, communicating either love and passion or authority and power. These associations have influenced design choices across all disciplines and created somewhat rigid design best practices. As time progresses and we evolve and experiment, maybe this is our invitation to change our vantage point. The power of red exists not only in isolation on either end of an intense emotional spectrum but in its ability to evolve and adapt as we decide to attribute new meaning and application.
About the Author
Ariana DiPierno is a Senior Project Coordinator for Carnegie Design Services.