Friday Favorite - 7/12/13

I am returning after my July 4 Holiday hiatus with another "Friday Favorite".

Today's "Friday Favorite" is from the red family.  One of my "fave" reds is Farrow and Ball's "Rectory Red."  If used in the right proportions and space this red can really enhance a room.

I used this red in a client's dining room and it added so much elegance to the environment.  The dark woodwork on the doors and windows needed a pick me up.  And this red really stands out against the bright white paneling below the chair rail.

(photo by me)

My client was such a lovely person and her home had lovely things as well that deserved to be showcased.  Her beautiful cobalt blue china and the warm tones of her furniture were worthy of a color that would draw you into the space. 

One quick note:   If you are not familiar with Farrow and Ball's paints, I suggest you get acquainted.  Their colors are absolutely beautiful as the pigments in the paint really add so much depth to the walls.  They have a nicely sized selection of colors to choose from and their quality is fantastic.  (www.farrowandball.com)

Why is it such a great color?  Farrow and Ball's "Rectory Red" is a dramatic color with a hint of cherry in it.  It's a very vibrant color.

Where would be a great place to use this color?  Tests have shown that red is a color that generates energy and increases your appetite.   I think this color is better in a dining room than a kitchen since you don't want your appetite on overdrive all the time but you do want your guests to enjoy their meal and linger for awhile over lively conversation!  The warmth of this color makes a dining room so inviting, especially when lights are dimmed and candlelight is abundant.  Imagine the contentment and comfort this color would signal to family and guests.

What other colors go with it?  I love the cobalt blue and red combination, but also think a slate grey would be terrific as well.  This color is a great backdrop for artwork and would enhance a variety of wall hangings.  While gold works as a great accent,  I can also imagine dark black frames against this exciting color.

(photo by me)

 

(Another view of the room - with more of the blues featured on the wall decorations, the warmer woods, the beautiful white paneled walls below, the wood work on the ceiling above, the gold chandelier and the very dark oriental.) 

Enjoy the weekend!

Note to my readers:  As part of my summer schedule, I will be on vacation next week but will  return  the week of the 22nd with more posts about color.