How to Spice Up Your Home with Summer Reds

Spring and summer are rolling around and maybe you're wondering how to spice up your home by adding some red colors. If you're new to the world of red, and just beginning to process what you'll do, you will be amazed at the variety of the color red.

When many of us think of spring and summer red, we think of the tangy reds of the tomato. The spicy color with a little orange or yellow flavor seem to suit our palette more than the deep dark reds of winter. Look at many of the flowers and it's often easier to note the reds with orange glows or tints. As later summer approaches, fall colors of red are often dark and turn to brownish reds.

Be careful with red. You may believe you love it, but after painting all four walls, you may wonder what you've done. Start by thinking perhaps you'd rather designate one accent wall to focus on the vibrant color. You may want it to be where guests notice the bright color when entering your home.

Prior to picking your paint color, look at reds you already have or know you love. Do you have a favorite pair of red shoes, or a pillow that includes a shade of red you'd love to explore? What colors look best with the red you have chosen and are those the colors that you will want to use in the room? For spring and summer, perky yellows and oranges make us feel happy and more energetic. Then by the time fall rolls around and things slow down a bit, you will either be used to and love your colors - or maybe you'll want to tame them down with a sage green or brown tones.

Just because you paint a wall red or make changes using reds in your home, you don't have to break the bank. Use throw pillows and area rugs and a vase of flowers to really bring out the color you love. Those types of accents can really perk things up with very little money. Perhaps you have an area rug or pillows in a different room that could be utilized in your new red area.

In fact, designers look to other rooms in your home to see what you already have and what you love. Sometimes just by moving a piece of furniture or accent pieces you can give your home a total new look for little or no money. Dig out those old red dishes or place mats. Do you still have that red child's rocker stashed away in the basement or garage? Place a doll, a book or potted plant on the seat for all to admire.

You may find that after you've painted your wall, you want to incorporate reds into other rooms in your home. These may be different shades or hues and will pull your look together. Be careful so you don't overdo it, however.

You will be glad you moved forward and got your home ready for the spring and summer ahead. The red will perk you up and you'll enjoy the watermelon, berries and red flowers that will also come in the door.

Pour your coffee into a tomato red cup and enjoy strawberry jam on your toast. That spring morning you can't help but be ready to meet the day head-on.