Red. 

It is bold, striking, and powerful. As indicated by a long tradition of matadors with scarlet capes, red grabs the attention and even can cause the blood pressure to rise. When used in decor, red really makes a statement, and red cabinets are the perfect proof.

The Science of Red

Across the world, red has come to be associated with power, luck, and love, maybe because it is the color of life-sustaining blood or the heart itself. It is a stimulating hue that tends to stir passion, especially for food. There is some debate as to why this is: perhaps because so many natural foods are red, and its tonal opposite, blue, is mostly absent in natural foods, instead often indicating mold and other harmful substances.

Whatever the reason, people have been capitalizing on our natural gravitation to red for a very long time, but incorporating red cabinets doesn’t have to make your kitchen look like a member of a fast food chain. If you are looking for a bold and eye-catching choice, you may just give red cabinets a chance. 

Shades

Finding the perfect shade for your red cabinets is the key to pulling a room together. Unlike many color choices, when you opt for red, you have the choice of either paint or a natural wood. Sometimes all it takes is using varnish to bring out the intrinsic hue of woods like walnut, cherry, or mahogany to make naturally red cabinets pop. If you have another hue in mind, finding the right blend is essential so you don’t end up with a shade too orange or too blue. Because every room is different, we have a few suggestions on shades.

Brick Red 

Perfect for traditional or rustic kitchens, brick red is a great option if you want your red cabinets to create a warm and cozy atmosphere. The shade is among the more subtle reds, and it pairs well with natural and warm woods in the floor or counters. For cabinets of this hue, consider hardware that has warm red undertones. Brick red and its maroon counterparts are usually mixed with a pretty even blend of orange and blue tints. 

Bold Scarlet

Scarlet cabinets are not for the faint of heart. Bright reds reminiscent of lipstick and firetrucks can be very effective in modern-styled kitchens with a lot of white, and chrome or silver hardware leans into the modern feel. If you want to create a room that has clean lines and bold pop, scarlet may be the way to go.

Fruity Fun

It’s amazing just how many shades of red are named after fruits, and they generally are more natural hues with a healthy mix of blue. Fruity reds are often (though are not necessarily) more muted yet deeper hues, and while they can be used in a fun way, they more often lend a level of class. Shades of currant or plum or the titular cabernet can be bold without being loud while burgundy conveys a sense of rich sophistication. Cherry red cabinets offer a luxury that can be achieved with natural wood or paint.

How to Use

Because red is such a powerful color, it is important to use it wisely so as not to overwhelm the other elements in a room. Here are just a few suggestions on how to really make your red cabinets stand out.

Gloss

When choosing your paint or varnish, you’ll need to decide if you want it to be matte or glossy. Mattes are more common in modern kitchens or bathrooms, and glossy paints are particularly good for a small space or one with very little light, since the shine will bounce the light back into the room.

The Perfect Accent 

If you are looking for a pop of color to create visual interest, use red cabinets as an accent, perhaps on a wall or on the kitchen island. You might also try a free-standing cabinet or even move away from red cabinetry entirely and opt for red curtains or shutters. Smaller red details—accent dishes, chairs, or subtle elements of décor—used sparingly in conjunction with your red cabinets will pull the room together.

Two-Toned Cabinets

If you think red cabinets are right for your space but are concerned about them being overwhelming, consider two-toned cabinets. This gives you the freedom to make only some of your cabinets red. It also adds visual interest to any space. 

Pair with Neutrals 

To use red to its full effect, don’t busy a room with too many conflicting competing colors. Let it speak for itself in a room full of either white, gray, or even beige. Whatever you decide, Out of the Woods Custom Cabinetry is here to help you find the perfect red cabinets for your home.