Red rugs

The red rug carries more history than almost any other colour in interiors. A symbol of warmth, character and classic elegance, it has been associated for centuries with reception rooms, libraries, grand drawing rooms and boutique hotels. Contrary to received wisdom, a well-chosen red is perfectly at home in a contemporary interior, especially in burgundy, brick or red terracotta.

The shades of red

Each red sets its own mood:

• Burgundy / purple-red: deep and dark, very classic and sophisticated
• Brick red: a warm red leaning orange-brown, mellow and weathered
• Carmine / vermilion: pure, brilliant red, thoroughly dramatic
• Terracotta red: red softened by brown, very Mediterranean
• Rust red: halfway between red and terracotta
• Raspberry / cherry: softer reds with pink undertones

The easiest shades to work into a contemporary scheme: burgundy, brick and red terracotta. The boldest: carmine and bright red.

What to pair a red rug with

Red needs its partners chosen with care:

• Red with beige, cream or ivory: a timeless safe bet, thoroughly classic
• Burgundy with dark wood and brass: a chic English library
• Red with black and white: bold graphic Art Deco
• Brick red with olive green and cream: a natural Mediterranean palette
• Red with navy: a clean contrast, almost nautical
• Burgundy with dusty pink: a soft contemporary tonal scheme

Where to put a red rug

Red is at its best in rooms with character. In a classic or period living room, it gives the space a soul straight away. In a grand entrance hall, it impresses. In a library or study, it stimulates and warms the room. And in a dining room (red sharpens the appetite, which is why fine dining rooms have used it for generations). Best avoided: an adult bedroom (too stimulating for sleep, unless it is only a discreet touch).

Which styles work in red?

The red rug is superb as:

• A Persian rug in burgundy: the absolute classic, with its traditional central medallion
• An oriental with red motifs: Afghan, Bokhara and tribal designs
• A faded red vintage: softened red, much easier to place in a modern room
• A burgundy textured plain: contemporary restraint with conviction