Joaquin Phoenix balances red cabinets with neutral wall tiles – his strategic color tactic makes this controversial hue accessible
The Joker actor intelligently uses this tricky tone on his cabinets – designers say that, despite its reputation, following suit has surprising benefits
Joaquin Phoenix may be enjoying a vibrant schedule ahead of Joker: Folie à Deux's release, but back home, things are just as lively. The actor's kitchen cabinets, painted in a bright red hue, are among the daring decorating decisions we've seen this year – but despite its reputation, he's managed to use the color tastefully.
It's certainly no secret that red is arguably the hardest color to decorate with, especially when it's a tone as bright as the one in Phoenix's space. The secret to his success? Moderation.
The red kitchen cabinets may steal all attention, but Phoenix has ensured they're not overwhelming, thanks to his use of neutral wall tiles that offer the perfect balance. Instead of opting for statement marble or a deeper tile hue, the actor keeps his backsplash unintrusive yet classic – allowing the red cabinets to take center stage. This strategic balance allows him to enjoy the color's benefits without feeling overpowered, and it is something we can all replicate if we want to enjoy red in the same way.
A post shared by Joaquin Phoenix (@joaquinlphoenix)
A photo posted by on
'Red is an extremely energizing hue associated with ardor, vitality, and exhilaration. It can create a vivacious environment in the kitchen, infusing the space with energy and enthusiasm,' comments Murat Yashar, a certified kitchen expert from House of Worktops. 'Red's vivacious nature can be energizing, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a dynamic and lively atmosphere while cooking and entertaining.'
The bold aesthetic qualities of red are evident, but as Yashar comments, following Phoenix's lead could also influence our appetite.
'It is known that the color red stimulates the appetite and induces sensations of hunger. Red elements, such as red kitchen cabinets or accent pieces, can help create an inviting and appetizing kitchen ambiance. This can be especially beneficial for those who appreciate cooking and wish to improve the overall dining experience,' he explains.
On the subject of accent pieces, Melissa Klink, creative director at Harvey Jones, adds that incorporating red in smaller ways is an even more accsessible way to experiment with the hue in our kitchens. It's no surprise, then, that an increasing number of people are doing so in their spaces.
Sign up to the Homes & Gardens newsletter
Design expertise in your inbox – from inspiring decorating ideas and beautiful celebrity homes to practical gardening advice and shopping round-ups.
'Clients are showing their true colors and creating spaces in their homes that amplify their personality. With this, we’re seeing bolder, braver color choices that ooze warmth and playfulness,' she says.
'Tones like deep blush and red are replacing cooler tones, creating spaces that emanate a more cozy vibe while seamlessly blending comfort and style. The unexpected red theory also applies in the kitchen: try painting the inside of a pantry or breakfast dresser, updating a light fitting, or adding a red picture frame.'
Tapping into the look is simple. Begin with these handpicked red accessories, designed to work in every kitchen, whatever the base color.
Megan is the Head of Celebrity Style News at Homes & Gardens. She first joined Future Plc as a News Writer across their interiors titles, including Livingetc and Real Homes, before becoming H&G's News Editor in April 2022. She now leads the Celebrity/ News team. Before joining Future, Megan worked as a News Explainer at The Telegraph, following her MA in International Journalism at the University of Leeds. During her BA in English Literature and Creative Writing, she gained writing experience in the US while studying in New York. Megan also focused on travel writing during her time living in Paris, where she produced content for a French travel site. She currently lives in London with her antique typewriter and an expansive collection of houseplants.
-
7 different interior designers on ingenious ways they use paint to easily elevate a room
Paint can be the easiest way to transform a room, here 7 designers talk us through how they use it to the best effect
By Arabella Youens Published
-
How to take mulberry tree cuttings – expert tips for successful plant propagation
Learning how to take mulberry tree cuttings is a cost-effective way to grow your tree collection
By Thomas Rutter Published