Lauren Bacall and Humphrey Bogart's Home Office Was a Guidebook on How Unexpected Pops of Red Can Elevate a Traditional Scheme
Hollywood's golden couple used small pops of red at home in the 1940s – today, their technique is still effective
When used all over, a red color scheme appears bold, but when applied in moderation, it simply elevates the other elements of the room. This technique is especially effective in traditional homes, where it can be the small touch that makes antiques and classic decor positively glow. Take the following photo of Lauren Bacall and Humphrey Bogart's home as evidence.
Taken in 1946, the image shows Hollywood's golden couple connecting in their home office. The decor is classic for the time, all silver trays and a wooden desk and panelled walls – but a red photo frame and floral curtains could trick us into believing the photograph was shot yesterday. It is the enduring power of decorating with red that transforms the space.
These small pops alone create a timeless and versatile look that is not soon forgotten.
Lauren Bacall and Humphrey Bogart in their home office, 1946
To explore the staying power of red rooms since the Golden Age of Hollywood, Homes & Gardens spoke with experts about how we're seeing the color show up today, and why it remains. We also curated an edit based around the idea of a pop of red, so anyone can seamlessly integrate the shade with their existing decor. Let's start there...
Shop The 'Pop of Red' Edit
Like we see in Lauren Bacall and Humphrey Bogart's home office, subtle injections of color are enough to uplift a neutral room. These pieces are our editors' picks for bringing life into your own interiors.
Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall integrate red with floral drapes, and these block printed curtains are a gorgeous modern equivalent. I love the idea of pairing them against white walls for a bold impact - plus they have blackout capabilities so they can always be used in a bedroom.
The couple also adds a touch of red to their walls with a frame featuring red matting. This pretty acrylic burgundy frame cuts out the middleman, and it's my favorite low-lift solution.
If you're hoping to move beyond the curtains with your red decor, this rust colored rug embodies subtle sophistication. The pattern makes this timeless color scheme feel instantly interesting.
I wish I could have one of these Addison Ross bobbin lamps in every room of my home. The deep red color and sculptural silhouette are oh-so elevated yet whimsical enough to add a touch of play.
This table is endlessly stylish, versatile, and comes at the right price. It would look excellent styled with some of the classic pieces we see in Lauren and Humphrey's office like a silver tray and Millefiori glass paperweight.
Nothing says luxury quite like deep red velvet, but this scalloped pillow balances the opulence with a dash of contemporary fun. I love the idea of styling them on neutral chairs or a cream sofa for a contrasting style.
Based on the fact that red looked just as stylish in the stars' home almost 90 years ago, it's evident that the ongoing popularity of red has to do with its versatility. As paint or decorative accents, it works anywhere.
Helen Shaw, Design Expert at Benjamin Moore, advises: 'Whether you use masking tape to play with angles and introduce unexpected geometry to a corner or going bolder with a statement wall, red is the perfect shade to liven up a hallway, create a dramatic dining room or add playfulness to a kids' room.'
Though red is always popular, certain shades wax and wane in popularity depending on the year. So, which hue is the interior design trend of 2026?
'Tomato red is one of this summer's standout shades, bringing warmth, energy and a sense of personality to any home,' states Daniel Smith, Founder of Danetti. 'Whether used as a bold statement or a subtle accent, this vibrant color instantly elevates a space, adding depth, character and a confident edge.'
No matter the year, a pop of red will always instill a room with a certain chicness, an alluring je ne se quois. Personally, I can't get enough.
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