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Red & Yellow Accent Wall Ideas

Red and yellow are warm, dynamic colors that, when used correctly, add drama and fullness to a space. Accent walls are a useful area for incorporating these rich, saturated colors without overwhelming the space. Instead, accent walls become an eye-grabbing focal point that serves as the backbone for the rest of the room's decor. Once you have locked down the perfect shades of red and yellow for your space, keep some decorating ideas in mind.
  1. Color Choices

    • When it comes to the colors red and yellow, many shades come to mind. While they are both primary colors, there are endless variations on each hue that can coordinate with your decor. For example, if you are looking to decorate your home in a Tuscan-inspired style, look for warm, tomato red and marigold for an accent wall color. If the room is modern, choose a bright shade of red with orange notes or an almost neon sunny yellow for the wall.

    Gloss and Texture

    • Along with the shade of the accent wall you choose, you should also consider the finish. A bold accent wall is a way to make high impact, even in a small space. Instead of a flat matte base paint, use a semigloss or high-gloss base. This will make the color look more vibrant and bring more attention to this wall. To achieve the right look, apply a base primer on the wall beneath the paint to bring the color to life. For a rustic, aged look, add Venetian plaster to the red and yellow accent wall.

    Complementing Colors

    • Red and yellow are bold color choices on their own, but with the right complementing shades you can achieve your desired look in the space. For example, paint the baseboards on the accent wall a stark white or black to play up the contrast and add more impact to the color of the paint. Hang artwork in metallic shades, such as gold or silver, to pop against the vividness of the red and yellow accent wall.

    Prints and Designs

    • Showcase the contrast between these two colors by painting the wall in stripes of red and yellow. Or, choose one color as the base color and add stenciled detailing in the other color. Instead of paint, use a red and yellow wallpaper design for an intricate, high-impact print. Faux treatments, such as sponging and ragging, add texture and beauty to this focal wall.