Why use red in your home decorating idea? Red is the warmest of all colors and symbolizes vitality, energy, action and confidence. It makes a bold statement and is, incidentally, the color most chosen by extroverts. This article gives practical tips on using "a touch of red" in your home interior as well as suggestions for using "a touch of red" in various decorating styles.

In feng shui decorating, red is associated with power, love, inspiration and pleasure. Accent colors, such as red, which are more dramatic, are used in moderation, such as a single piece of art work or furniture. The reason is: the more intense the color, the less of it is needed for it to be effective. Thus, use lighter colors for larger areas with accents in more vibrant, dramatic colors. What an interesting home decorating idea!

A recent home decorating idea in our home became a reality by using "the touch of red" concept. Window coverings were installed on a series of three windows in the dining area. The coverings consisted of four vertical drapery panels made out of wool tapestry-looking fabric. The background of the fabric is medium tan with subtle red, green and blue flowers. The panels are outlined in a navy/small beige polka-dot fabric. A 6-inch cornice board covered with the same navy fabric completes the look. This window treatment may sound quite "busy" but is very pleasing to the eye.

To complete the home decorating idea of a "touch of red" look in the dining area and because the wool fabric is somewhat bulky, red tassel tie backs were added to the panels. In addition to the tassel tie backs, red was incorporated in the large picture on the dining room wall, in the table centerpiece and in a red chair cover. Another decorating project completed!

How can you use red décor and red accents in your home decorating ideas? Here are a few suggestions:

*Rustic Decorating Style - Red, green and black plaid work very well as accents.

*Modern Decorating Style - Basic and cool colors with a splash of bright red.

*Oriental Decorating Style - Think of using those luscious silk prints.

*Shabby Chic Decorating Style - Use red as an accent to contrast with the white shabby chic.

*Art Deco Decorating Style - Red is a vibrant and energetic color for this style.

*French Country Decorating Style - Use red to build on the rooster collections of this style.

*Cottage Decorating Style - Red is a great accent in cotton fabrics for cottage decorating.

*Mediterranean Decorating Style - Make use of red accessorized with blue and gold.

By being creative and using your imagination, you will have fun decorating with "a touch of red." Make your home the envy of the neighborhood!