Red is for passion

I live on a farm and I’d like to paint my kitchen cupboards in a red from Dulux; I want something bright but the men in my house must also like it! Can you help?

EX P E RT AD V I C E

Sonica Bucksteg, Dulux colour expert, replies Red is a great colour to use in a kitchen! Studies have shown that it actually increases appetite in most people; you’ll notice that a lot of restaurants make use of red for this very reason. However, red from floor to ceiling can be a bit overwhelming; it’s best to combine red with a neutral grey or beige tone on larger surfaces.

Dulux offers a variety of reds that can be used to brighten up any room in your home.

We recommend Ruby Fountain 1, 2 and 3; Ruby Fountain 1 is the darkest shade and Ruby Fountain 3 the lightest. Ruby Fountain has a slight blue undertone and will appear cooler in comparison to Volcanic Splash 3 which is warmer and more intense. Fire Cracker 3 is also a warm red – but it’s not as intense as Volcanic Splash 3.

We recommend painting a test patch in both colours and viewing them in natural light and under your kitchen lighting.

Daylight has varying effects on colour and your kitchen lighting will also either enhance or dull down your chosen shade.

It’s best to live with the colour for a full 24 hours before making a commitment. Incandescent and halogen lighting tends to warm up reds and yellows because the wavelengths of these artificial lights are warm, whereas fluorescent lighting has a cooling effect and may make reds appear muted. Similarly, the colour of your tabletop surfaces and textures in the room will also have an effect on the colour – so test swatches are a must!

CONTACT dulux.co.za