Looking for the best red paint colors for your home? From bold and vibrant to deep and luxurious, find the perfect red to transform your space with this expert guide.
Thinking about adding red to your home? You’re in the right place.
Red is one of the most impactful colors you can choose, whether you want to make a bold statement or bring in a touch of warmth.
With so many shades available, finding the perfect red might seem tricky, but don’t worry, I’m here to help. From fiery, vibrant tones to deep, luxurious hues, there’s a red for every style and space.
Keep reading to discover some of the best red paint colors and how they can transform your home.

How to Choose the Right Red for Your Space
Picking the right red isn’t just about choosing your favorite shade. It’s about finding one that fits your home.
I’ve learned that the key is balancing the shade with your space and lighting. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Natural Light Matters: If your room gets lots of sunlight, you can go bold with a deep red. If it's darker, stick to a brighter or softer red so the space doesn’t feel too heavy.
- Consider the Mood: Want an energetic space? Go for a bright, fiery red. Prefer something cozier? Deep, moody reds will do the trick.
- Check the Undertones: Blue-based reds feel more elegant and sophisticated, while orange-based reds are warm and inviting. Think about the vibe you want before committing.
Best Rooms for Red Paint
Red is powerful, so choosing the right room makes all the difference. Here’s where red works best:
- Dining Rooms: Red stimulates conversation and adds warmth, making meals feel more inviting.
- Kitchens: A pop of red in a kitchen adds vibrancy and energy, making the space feel lively and welcoming.
- Bedrooms: Deep, luxurious reds can make a bedroom feel cozy and romantic. Stick to darker shades for a calming effect.
- Living Rooms: Red can be bold in a living area. I suggest using it on an accent wall rather than covering the whole space.
- Powder Rooms & Nooks: I love using red in small spaces. A deep red in a powder room or reading nook feels stylish and intimate.

Best Red Paint Colors for Your Home
Here are the top red paint colors to consider for your space.
Vibrant and Energizing Reds
If you want to bring energy and life to a room, these reds are the way to go:
- Sherwin Williams Real Red: A pure, bold red that instantly livens up a space. Perfect for a modern accent wall.
- Benjamin Moore Caliente: A strong but inviting red that’s great for making a dining area or kitchen feel lively and warm.
- Behr Cherry Red: Bright and cheerful, this shade is playful, uplifting, and great for sparking conversation.

Deep and Luxurious Reds
For a rich, sophisticated look, go for these deep, dramatic reds:
- Benjamin Moore Million Dollar Red: A deep, luxurious red that brings elegance to a bedroom or living room.
- Sherwin Williams Burgundy: This regal shade works beautifully in a formal dining room or a stylish home office.
- Behr Fine Wine: A dark, wine-inspired red that’s perfect for a cozy library or a moody, upscale bar area.

Soft and Subtle Reds
Want red without overwhelming the room? These muted tones are perfect:
- Benjamin Moore Moroccan Red: A warm, earthy red that pairs beautifully with natural materials like wood and leather.
- Sherwin Williams Coral Reef: A soft red that can warm any gathering space in your home.
- Behr Ripe Fig: A subtle, sophisticated red that works in a variety of spaces without taking over.

Tips for Painting with Red
Painting with red takes a little extra effort, but the results are worth it. Here are my best tips to make the process easier:
- Use a Tinted Primer: Red paint is often transparent, so without a primer, you’ll need a ton of coats. A tinted primer helps a lot.
- Apply Multiple Coats: Be ready for at least three coats to get full, even coverage.
- Choose the Right Finish:
- Matte: Softens the boldness of red and gives an elegant feel.
- Satin or Semi-Gloss: Makes the color pop and adds a sleek, modern touch.
- High-Gloss: Very dramatic but tricky to apply. I’d suggest using it for doors or trim rather than walls.
- Test Before Committing: Red looks different in natural and artificial light. Always test a sample and check how it looks throughout the day.
- Balance with Neutral Decor: If you’re painting an entire room red, keep your furniture and decor neutral so the space doesn’t feel overwhelming.
Red is powerful, passionate, and full of personality. Whether you go for a bold, vibrant red or something softer and more understated, the right shade can completely transform your space. So, which red speaks to you?

Need More Help?
If picking the perfect red feels overwhelming, don't worry! My Paint Color Formula can guide you through the process, ensuring you find the right hue to match your home's style and your aesthetic preferences. Whether you're revamping a single room or transforming your entire home, choosing the right red is easier than you think.
Still unsure which paint color is right for your space?
Choosing paint doesn’t have to be stressful! My free Paint Color Planning Quick Start Guide walks you through the exact steps to confidently choose the perfect color—without the overwhelm, second-guessing, or endless swatch testing.
👉 Click here to download the free guide!

My Paint Color Formula course walks you through the painless process of expertly testing paint swatches to ensure you have the perfect color for your home.
The best way to sample paint? Samplize!
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Thanks for reading!

Morgan is passionate about home decor and paint colors. She has been sharing DIY home decor tips since 2012 at CharlestonCrafted.com. From there, she learned to love paint colors, and the Paint Color Project was born in 2022!