How to Incorporate the Unexpected Red Theory into Your Student Apartment

Interior design is challenging for students because they have a limited budget but still want great results that express their personalities. A simple yet effective trend to take advantage of is Unexpected Red Theory. This involves placing something red where you wouldn’t expect it. The burst of red transforms the entire room, especially one that feels dull or is missing that special something — anywhere that has a muted colour palette. There are all sorts of red items you can use as statement pieces, including some you may already have or can pick up without spending much. Here are some ideas to get you started.

1. Taper Candles

Ideal for the kitchen table are red taper candles in basic candlestick holders. They’re particularly popular during the holiday season, but they actually look great year round. You don’t even need to burn them — not lighting them often (or even at all) means you won’t need to keep replacing them.

2. Table Lamp

It’s useful to have some lamps in your student apartment for softening the light when you want something less intense than overhead lights. Whereas your desk lamp needs to be functional, the other lamps in your apartment can be aesthetic. Place one on your bedside or on the coffee table in the living room.

3. Flowers

Introduce flowers to your apartment as a fresh bouquet, houseplants, or faux flowers. As long as they’re red, you’ll gain the effect. They work in any room where you have a table or windowsill.

4. Frames

Choose a red frame for something you want to hang on the wall: a picture, a photo, or even a mirror. If you like to make your own artwork, you could even purchase a regular frame and paint it red.

5. Seating

If you want extra seating for the living room or bedroom when guests come over, look for something red. A red chair, bean bag, or ottoman will look inviting and create an interesting visual effect. This also eliminates the problem of trying to find something that matches the rest of your furniture.

6. Throw Blanket

If you already have a large enough couch in the living room and plenty of chairs in the kitchen, you may decide it’s not worth investing in more seating. However, you can still introduce some red, such as with a throw blanket. An added advantage is you’ll have something to snuggle under during movie night.

7. Area Rug

Many homes use Unexpected Red Theory in their floors, such as for tiles in the kitchen. The next best thing to use is a red area rug. Choose an extra-soft one to have another place for your friends to relax, such as if you’re inviting over a larger group than normal.

To see the results you want from the Unexpected Red Theory, it’s important to have an apartment that’s attractive to begin with, which doesn’t tend to be true for college dorms. A great alternative for Durham College residence is 17Hundred. Our spacious apartments are fully furnished with updated furniture and stylish furnishings. Book a tour to see where you could be living.