Hydrangea Hill Cottage: Mary Mac Donald

Red! The color of passion, fire, power, stimulation, energy and romance!

Unlike most colors in a palette, red evokes emotions. What other color can you think of that can bring out so many different responses or describe so many situations, such as a 'red hot' romance celebrated with red roses, a scarlet woman, 'red carpet treatment' just to name a few.

When a woman wears a red dress, she is noticed and remembered, just as a man will wear a red tie to standout and exude a semblance of power. Red indicates danger and is the color of fire...... is used on fire engines, stop signs and, of course, red lights.

In decorating, just as blue is calming and green is serene, red is stimulating. Whether to use a lot of red in a room, or just a splash of it here and there, can be determined by the use of the room, as well as the personality and emotional wellbeing of the homeowner.

This color not only stimulates our appetites, but our emotions, in which case if you feel you need a lift or want stimulation, then by all means, use red. If you feel your life is already in overdrive and you want to relax when you get home, red would definitely not be your first choice of color.

I'm sure you've heard before that restaurants often use red to stimulate their diners appetites....well, that's true. And I have heard 'never use red in a bedroom or you'll never be able to unwind!' and whatever you do, never use red in a nursery or kid's room if you want a calm and happy child!

Having said all that, take a look at the rooms below and see how many red bedrooms there are. As stimulating as they may be, they are also warm, cosy and welcoming.

Some of the world's greatest artists, designers and decorators use red with abandon - just another indication of their passion for life and living! From rustic to regal, it's a knockout!

Enjoy!