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I thought this decor trend would be over by then – but designers are still using it everywhere (and for good reason)

Umito November 14, 2024

The unexpected red theory took TikTok by storm earlier this year. It promotes the idea that a pop of red in an otherwise non-red scheme can enhance a room, elevate it and make it more vibrant and chic. A simple tip that uses the principle of a coat of lipstick to finalize an outfit, the perfect finishing touch.

Normally I don’t have much luck with TikTok interior design trends. Flashes in the pan (anyone remember the crustacean core?), they tend to go as quickly as they reach their peak and can be gimmicky rather than channeled into good design. But this one stuck, mainly because it’s right.

“I am always wary of things that are fashionable, but I also believe in Unexpected Red Theory” says Minneapolis-based designer Anne McDonald. Who said she’s been using red in this way for years, long before it was a viral moment — and will continue to do so.

And many designers agree with her that this “trend” is actually not a trend at all but a timeless way to decorate with a bold color. Turns out I was wrong to think everyone would have gotten past the unexpected red theory, here’s why designers still love this look months later.

Red is a timeless shade

red sofa

(Image credit: Studio Buchanan)

Angus Buchanan is undoubtedly one of the designers who launched the theory of unexpected red. The Studio chair from his design agency Buchanan Studio appeared time and time again when the trend emerged and can be considered the genesis of the deckchair stripe trend and love for a burst of deep red.

“Red always enhances a space,” he says. “And the red fabric of the Studio chair is just perfect. You’ll love it for a long time, it’s timeless and durable and works just as well in a Miami beach house as it does in a Scottish castle. Red is that heroic, stand-out hue that can make you think differently about a room when you add a pop of it.

Red balances neutral schemes

bedroom with red headboard

(Image credit: MLH. Trove by Studio Duggan)

The desire to create neutral spaces to relax is very present in 2025, and designers are finding new ways to use beige tones to soothe you. But what feels most current is making sure everything in the room isn’t neutral, but rather having a moment that catches the eye and lifts the mood.

“I like to pair taupe with stronger hues such as deep reds and rusty tones,” says designer Tiffany Duggan of Studio Duggan. “It’s a wonderfully warm shade that can look beautifully contemporary when used correctly, but without a more saturated counterpart it can look a little ’90s.”

Saturated counterpart, you say? A step forward Unexpected Red Theory, seen here in the sparkle of deep Tiffany red used on the headboard of this otherwise neutral room. “A few pops of red add a little fun and balance to the decor,” she says.

Unexpected Red Theory Aligns With Classic Design Rules

bathroom with red vanity

(Image credit: Wing Ho. Design by Anne McDonald)

“In classical design there is the theory of repetition and how you can use that to create a sense of harmony,” designer Anne McDonald explain. “But too much repetition can become boring, which is where tension theory comes in. If you interrupt the repetition with something unexpected, then you risk creating a pattern that will give you a rush of excitement.” And this is the basis of the unexpected red theory.

When choosing the right red, Anne currently favors oxblood, seen above on this vanity unit in an otherwise classic bathroom she designed. “When you bring in red, you get a touch of sex appeal,” says Anne. “And for rooms with low light, it’s a color that feels good on the skin.”

Modern Cordless Flowerpot Table Lamp

Mohair pillow with velvet stripes

Angus Buchanan says the unexpected red theory “is not a silver bullet,” meaning it won’t be a magic bullet that works every time. “Even if it’s the closest thing to it,” he adds.

Anne McDonald explains a little further. “I don’t think you can just throw in a red pillow and be done with it,” she says. “It seems far too artificial. Instead, you need to find a balance, pairing red with the right cool tones so it really pops. Olive greens, deep blues and turquoise are good counterparts.

It really seems like the unexpected red theory is here to stay, embracing richer tones like burgundy and oxblood, but staying true to the theme of sophisticated yet lively spaces. “It can be both smart and formal or grounded and relaxed,” says Anne. A color for all occasions.

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Apre-salomemanzo

I thought this decor trend would be over by then – but designers are still using it everywhere (and for good reason)

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I thought this decor trend would be over by then – but designers are still using it everywhere (and for good reason)

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