You've likely heard the phrase "paint the town red" and understand that it refers to going out and enjoying an exciting time.  Well, it figures that you would paint the town "red" as opposed to "green" when you're having a wild and crazy time.

Not for the quiet or shy, if you're seeing red in your new decorating plans, you're seeing drama in your home.  It's the most emotionally intense color and it's been documented that it stimulates a faster heartbeat and breathing. This intense color is also known to induce emotions from passion to even violence!

If you love excitement and drama, paint your walls red!  But be warned, red walls are definitely not the optimal choice for a peaceful, relaxing space.  Since red packs such an emotional punch, try to use it in small doses -- as an accent.  The color red is often used to draw attention making items appear stronger, brighter and heavier.  Indeed, red is the perfect accent color because wherever you put it,  it is sure to attract attention.

--Carla

                                            The perfect red front door, Benjamin Moore Heritage Red

Lee Jofa FD645-V146 Opera Damask Silk/Linen

DB Sources, $425	Dransfield & Ross, $40 each	Lazy Susan, $55 to $100
Arteriors Home, $499	Bliss Studio	O'Brien Ironworks, $1,145
Diane James Designs, $430	L'Objet, $187, platter; $225, plates, set of four	Jamie Young, $630
Made Goods, $1,000	Bungalow 5, $525	Safavieh
Bailey Street, $375	Liora Manne, $920, 5×8	Leftbank Art
Currey & Company, $400	Global Views, $329	Lux-Art Silks, $178

Slant Collections, $90, set of four