Why Red Will Be the “It” Paint Color for 2025, According to Experts

Neutrals have long reigned supreme in the design world, so much so that when color is considered, it’s often done in “pops.” And while striving for calm serenity may have been warranted these last few years, it currently seems that color is making a much-needed comeback. Just look at the trendsetters at BEHR, who chose the warm berry red of Rumors as the 2025 Color of the Year. 

“Behr Paint’s annual Color of the Year is selected based on consumer trend research and global lifestyle analysis in a variety of areas including travel and fashion,” says Erika Woelfel, BEHR’s vice president of color and creative services. “The selection of Rumors reflects a shift in people desiring more personality and depth in the home.”

But, yes, you’re right: Going from warm whites and soft beiges to red is quite the jump, and some people may be hesitant to take the leap. Never fear! Woelfel breaks down why Rumors is actually more versatile than it may seem, and can help bridge the gap between the most minimalist tastes and the most adventurous ones. Here are three reasons why she thinks red will be the “it” shade for the coming year. 

It Marks a Collective Change

In a survey Woelfel and her team completed prior to selecting Rumors as the Color of the Year, they found that 76% of Americans would consider painting a room or wall in a shade of red, and that more than half felt that this color was captivating. Woelfel notes that these responses hinted at a want to at least try daring colors outside of the proliferation of neutrals, and that picking the “right” shade would likely be a nudge in the red direction. 

“Looking into 2025, I anticipate more experimentation with color in the home,” she says. “Rumors is a versatile and approachable shade of red and is the perfect option for a first step into bold color.”

It Works Well With Others

As a deep ruby, Rumors behaves almost like a red scarf in your wardrobe or a Cabernet in your collection: It can complement a variety of options, depending on what you have in mind. 

“If you’re beginning to experiment with color in the home, I recommend using Rumors with warm neutrals like Blank Canvas, Even Better Beige, or Nutmeg Frost,” Woelfel continues. “When joined with Blank Canvas, Rumors looks crisp and balances the energy of red. With Nutmeg Frost, it goes monochromatic. And alongside Even Better Beige, it creates a soft and organic space.”

But let’s say you want to go all in—you should! Consider adding a wall treatment like wainscoting prior to opening a can, Woelfel suggests, and then paint every wall in Rumors. The results will feel oh-so-sophisticated, especially when layered with gold accents, dark woods, and woven materials.

It Can Be Used Throughout the Home

Given that Rumors can punch up a palette whether it’s used on a small footprint or in a large format, Woelfel wanted to supply some ideas to get weekend DIYs underway. “On a front door, Rumors makes a strong impression and adds great curb appeal,” she says. “It’s a bold and edgy hue for kitchen cabinetry, and a good surprise in a guest bath. Rumors can also make an unexpected statement in places where people gather, like living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas.” 

If you’re already envisioning where this shade can be spotlighted in your home, head to Home Depot where this Color of the Year is exclusively sold. “Rumors is an exciting change,” Woelfel says. “It has a warm energy and elegant ambience that confidently allows you to express yourself.” Enjoying a room that brings out the best in you is the ultimate goal, after all.