The challenge for you will be to use enough red tones to satisfy your design goals without creating a 'monster'.

Think about it. Would you dress in red from head to toe? Probably not. You will wear red accents such as jewelry, shoes and purse. Or you'll wear a candy apple red jacket, but the accompanying pieces are more neutral colors.

The same philosophy works in your home when decorating with red. Particularly when using this color, a little bit goes a long way. And, red also helps to draw the eye around the room, so there is an added bonus in using this color as an accent.

Here are some tips and ideas for decorating with red. Read through them and pick out the tips that work for your home and decor style.

• If your space is small, such as a powder room, small office or tiny bedroom, go ahead and use a bold shade of red on all of the walls. Why not? It adds drama and excitement to a small space. Just remember to use some neutrals in the space to give the eye somewhere to rest.

• A deep shade of red can make a dramatic statement as an accent wall. Find the focal point of the room, or the most interesting wall(s), such as a bay window, and use your selected color there.
• Select (or paint, depending upon your decorating style) one piece of furniture for your statement in red. It could be a dresser, armoire, entertainment/display, dining room chairs, barstools, etc. Use red sparingly in the rest of the space to let your selected piece(s) shine.
• Feeling bold? If your room size can handle it, consider red and white checkerboard tile on the floor. This would be a great look in a casual, country or rustic kitchen/nook area. Add accents of black, tan, cream and just a little bit more red (dishes, collectables, etc) and you have a real eye-grabber.
• For a large space with wall height and lots of natural light, you can highlight the upholstery with a bright red sectional or sofa as the focal point in the room.

When decorating with red, what other colors should be in your palette? If you select an earthy red, use sand, stone and sienna.

Dusty, rosy red works with shades of peach, soft yellow and sage green.

Cherry blossom red can be combined with moss green, sage green, rose and delicate 'barely there' pink.

Deep ruby red works with cream, navy and black cherry.

Red spice can be combined with deep sienna, sandstone, ivory and henna.

For much more detail and insight into these color palette suggestions, including color samples, see The Color Scheme Bible. You'll love it!