Exploring the Colour Trend of Oxblood
Choosing a colour scheme for a home or even one room can sometimes feel like an overwhelming task. Our “Colour Stories” series explores the usage of colour in the world of interior design and can help you visualize specific colours in a variety of spaces. This month we are looking at the colour trend of oxblood: a bold, rich, unforgettable colour that makes an impact in any interior space.
Colour Psychology
Oxblood, a rich, deep red with hints of brown and burgundy, brings sophistication and warmth to interior spaces. This colour carries depth and drama, instantly elevating a room’s atmosphere. In colour psychology, oxblood is associated with passion, strength, and confidence. Its grounding undertones create a sense of stability, making it both bold and comforting. Unlike true reds, which can feel aggressive or overstimulating, oxblood’s muted quality evokes a sense of refined elegance and intimacy.
Practical Applications
In practical applications, oxblood shines as both a statement colour and a sophisticated neutral. For those hesitant to commit to bold wall colour, oxblood works exceptionally well as an accent through velvet upholstery, leather furniture, or rich textile choices like curtains and area rugs. A single oxblood velvet armchair can anchor a living room, while oxblood bedding transforms a bedroom into a luxurious retreat. On walls, it can create a cocooning effect in dining rooms, libraries, or living rooms, encouraging connection and conversation.The key is balance: pair oxblood with crisp whites, warm creams, or soft greys to prevent spaces from feeling too dark. Incorporate metallic accents like brass or gold to enhance its inherent richness and add a touch of luxury without feeling overpowering.
The versatility of oxblood extends across design styles, from traditional to contemporary. In classic interiors, it pairs beautifully with dark woods, heirloom area rugs, and antique brass fixtures, evoking the timeless elegance of English manor houses. In modern spaces, oxblood provides unexpected warmth when combined with concrete, steel, and clean-lined furnishings, proving that this historic colour has thoroughly contemporary appeal.
It also complements natural materials such as wood, leather, and stone, creating an organic, sophisticated aesthetic. In minimalist spaces, a single oxblood statement piece, like an accent chair or an art installation, becomes a focal point that exudes confidence and timeless style. The colour’s natural affinity with autumn and winter makes it particularly effective in creating cozy, inviting spaces during colder months, though its sophisticated depth ensures it remains elegant year-round.
Oxblood Furnishings
Luce Cabinet by Feine
Yarumal Coffee Table by Chris Wolston
Valserliege Chaise Longue by Peter Zumthor
Roebuck Credenza by Scheibe Design
Big Picture Sofa by Holly Hunt
Geo Mirror by Chen Chen and Kai Williams
Meditation on Blue Rug by Christopher Farr
Pedro Stool by Lazzarini & Pickering
Harbour Armchair by Audo Copenhagen
Interested in learning how you could incorporate touches of Oxblood into your home? Contact us here.
