The ‘unexpected red theory’ is TikTok’s latest interior trend obsession, characterised by the ability to make any room, regardless of its colour scheme or style instantly look better by simply introducing a pop of red.
This interior hack isn’t limited to just red though, according to Victoria Foster, an interior stylist at ScS who says “adding a strong statement of any colour to a room which previously wasn’t present can instantly make a room feel contemporary and more interesting”. Pinterest searches for ‘colour drenching’ are up 1000% YoY, so our desire to add colour to our homes is clear.
If you don’t know where to start with adding colour to your home, a great way to nail this trend is through the addition of an accent chair to your space in a fun colourway. Whether it’s a love chair, small accent chair or chaise longue, correctly styling a statement chair can elevate the space and introduce a layer of dimension. With UK Google searches for ‘armchair’ reaching 46K last month¹, this solo-seating arrangement is one many Brits are looking to introduce into their space.
To guide Brits on styling statement chairs Victoria has shared her thoughts on what you should consider before making a decision and how to tie the colour into the rest of the room.
Victoria explains:
“In recent years we’ve seen a clear shift away from matching suites towards mismatched furniture, thoughtfully chosen together. An accent chair allows you to make a statement with your furniture and completely change up the feel of the room.
- Choose a complementary colour scheme to your space
“A bold statement chair can add drama and interest to a room, however failing to consider how the colours will work in the rest of the space can run the risk of the chair looking out of place and drawing unnecessary attention to it.
“An accent chair should feel like it belongs perfectly and makes sense in the room. A great way to ensure this is by choosing a statement colour which is in the same colour group of other accessories in the room – for example opting for a deep mustard colour, if your space already contains accents of gold.
“To help tie your accent chair into a living room, position the chair opposite your main sofa, and accessorise the sofa with decorative cushions and throws in similar shades to the chair. This creates a clear seating area and shows that the chair truly belongs in the space.
“The colour wheel is a great place to start when choosing a colour that will compliment the rest of the room, look for opposite colours as these are classic complimentary colour pairings. Green with orange or blue with red are classic complementary colours. If your room boasts a lot of greens and earthy tones then a fabric armchair in a burnt orange shade would complement these tones beautifully and create an exciting pop of colour, without being too eccentric.
“Similarly, the warm and cosy feel that navy or dark blue interiors provide will pair perfectly with a rich red armchair – this colour scheme also proves the accuracy of the unexpected red theory and is an easy way to incorporate the ‘it’ statement colour of the season into your home in a natural way.”
- Opt for a daring pattern for maximum impact
“An accent chair is a great way to incorporate a fun statement pattern into the space and patterned armchairs offer timeless charm and elegance. It provides a great way to channel the modern regency-core trend we’re seeing in shows like Bridgerton and The Gentleman at the moment.
“Bold patterned furniture also works great against a backdrop with bold colour blocking, as it adds softness and warmth to the space. Why not try opting for a pattern with multiple colours as you can then easily match one of the colours with a colour that features regularly elsewhere in your room.”
- Style the chair with thoughtful accessories
“If your accent chair is in a shade not otherwise represented in the space, make sure to dress the chair with scatter cushions or a throw that can tie it back to the rest of the room. This doesn’t necessarily have to be the exact same shade, instead opt for different shades within the same family as the chair colour. Match a brightly coloured chair with monochromatic cushions of tones present in the rest of the room.”
Living Hoxton Velvet Snuggle Chair
RRP: £959
Colour Options: Malia Marine – Fabric + 5 others
Estimated Delivery: 4 weeks
Dimensions: H68 x W110 x D80 cm
Introducing the Hoxton Velvet Snuggle Chair, where comfort and luxury intertwine to create the ultimate seating experience. This exquisite chair is designed to provide a cosy and inviting space for you and your loved ones to relax and unwind.
Victoria adds: “The Hoxton Snuggle Chair in the ‘Malia Marina’ shade is a truly showstopping way to add a touch of luxury to your living room or bedroom. I’d suggest pairing this chair with soft white walls and warm oak furniture, and accompany it with pops of orange, pink or even red.”
Living Sunny Fabric Accent Chair
RRP: £299.99
Colour Options: Lustre Coral All Over + 4 others
Estimated Delivery: 4 weeks
Dimensions: H79 x W85 x D75 cm
The Sunny Fabric Accent Chair is the perfect playful addition to any room, with sleek wooden legs and a scalloped shape. The Sunny Chair is available in five stunning colour options, allowing you to customise your space to reflect your personal taste and style. Whether you prefer a bold statement or a subtle touch, there’s a shade to suit every mood and interior theme.
Victoria adds: “I love the Sunny Accent Chair, it’s compact and delicate size means you don’t need to have a huge space to accommodate for it and is perfect for city dwellers or smaller living rooms. The scalloped edging adds a fun touch, perfect for spring inspired interiors or to create a cosy seating area in your bedroom. I personally love this vibrant colour shade as it’s super warming and glamorous.”
Ideal Home Freda Fabric Standard Chair
RRP: £749
Colour Options: Brunswick Collection Midnight/Thndr Pipe + 10 others
Estimated Delivery: 4 weeks
Dimensions: H91 x W74 x D98 cm
For those wanting to really make a statement in their home, the Freda Fabric Chair boats retro-inspired contrast piping on the cushions and arms, includes a stylish patterned scatter cushion included and black tapered feet. The Freda Chair embodies a classic grand silhouette with gently rolled arms and tapered wooden legs.
Victoria says: “For those still wanting to make a dramatic statement without opting for a bright colour, the Freda Chair will certainly do this. The cool and moody design oozes elegance and would perfectly accompany monochromatic interiors or provide a striking contrast to warm yellows, golds and orange interiors.”
Living Daisy Fabric Standard Chair
RRP: £599.99
Colour Options: 0443 Ochre Plush Velvet Plain + 9 others
Estimated Delivery: 3 weeks
Dimensions: H93 x W84 x D90 cm
The Daisy Fabric Chair strikes the perfect balance of classic design, with tapered arms and ultra padded cushions, with a modern twist through the striking colour choices available.
Victoria says: “The Daisy Chair in this Ochre Plush Velvet shade is a great way for those more cautious to still introduce a fun colour into their space. This rich buttery shade would pair perfectly with dark walls and accents of blue and gold.”
Botanicals Bloom Velvet Standard Chair
Was: £749
NOW: £529.99
Colour Options: Harriet Collection Green + 8 others
Estimated Delivery: 4 weeks
Dimensions: H91 x W100 x D90 cm
The Botanicals Bloom Velvet Chair is designed to elevate your lifestyle and transform your home into a haven of relaxation and modern refinement. Featuring glamorous spiral arms and a matching floral cushion, allow yourself to sink into the ultra padded cushions.
Victoria recommends: “The botanicals range provides the perfect way to bring nature into your home and is available in a range of muted earthy tones. My personal favourite is this deep emerald green shade because paired with neutrals and wood tones, it provides a cool pop of colour whilst allowing the space to remain calming and fresh.”
For more styling tips and inspiration for the entire home, visit our Inspiration Hub or check out ScS’s full range of fabric armchairs.
