On the latest episode of Changing Rooms on Channel 4, the drama and style stakes were set high with Laurence Lleweyln-Bowen’s stunning red bedroom makeover for Lucy and Andy in Wokingham. In a palette of reds from sumptuous to cosy and earthy to striking, the room oozes grandeur and glamour. Want some advice for painting with red? We’ve got you covered with tips from our Creative Director, Marianne Shillingford. 

There’s something very special about how colour can evoke a feeling, and few colours are more emotive than red. Joy, love, passion, and energy are all sparked by this bold shade. It’s a colour that makes you sit up and take notice, a shade that makes you feel confident.

For red bedroom ideas in your own home, your impulse may be to err on the side of caution, but it’s actually an easy shade to use and it can, with the right treatment, totally revive a room. 

For this week’s bedroom makeover in Changing Rooms (above), Laurence Lleweyln-Bowen used no less than five shades of red… Velvet Robe, Pepper Red, Roasted Red, Earths Core and Raspberry Ripple alongside neutral Candy Cream. A style statement if ever there was one! 

3 clever ways with red

Dulux has so many reds to choose from, you’re sure to find something that suits your mood and style. 

Downplay with pale pink

If you’re feeling colour shy, pick one single shade, just like our Creative Director Marianne Shillingford has done in this easy-to-copy bedroom scheme, creating a red feature wall using sumptous Rouge Noir. Watch our video above and see how this plummy shade works beautifully when paired with Muted Blush. It’s a palette that feels confident but not overpowering. 

Make a statement in a small space

Bold colours aren’t reserved for big spaces. Shake up plain walls with a splash of red in a small room, such as a hallway, bathroom or downstairs loo. You can afford to be more daring in a space like this, so opt for a vibrant hue such as Blood Orange; it looks stunning offset by brilliant white and a soft pink shade.

Ground a scheme with berry tones

Earthy tones and berry hues like Velvet Cake are a deliciously stylish, contemporary option. Natural tones such as browns and greens bring the whole palette together for a cocooning vibe. Perfect for a cosy living room.

Marianne’s insider tip: Elevate any red scheme by introducing pattern and texture.

Don’t miss the next episode of Changing Rooms on Wednesday at 8pm on Channel 4 – and stream this week's show here.