'We’re seeing people embrace colour like never before,' says Behr Paint Co.

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Canadians, to borrow a Star Trek term, are boldly going where they haven’t gone before — when it comes to painting their home’s interiors.

With Behr unveiling Rumors (MQ1-15), a deep ruby red, as its 2025 colour of the year and on the heels of Cracked Pepper, a soft black, as its 2024 colour of the year, are Canadians actually ready to continually make such bold colour statements in their homes?

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According to Behr, the answer is yes.

“We’re seeing people embrace colour like never before,” said Erika Woelfel, vice-president of colour and creative services at Behr Paint Co. “Rumors is a modern take on the timeless red that creates an energetic appeal to make a lasting statement in a stunning way.”

Research conducted by Behr Paint, in an online commissioned survey of Canadians 18 and over, conducted between July 2 to 9 of this year, reveals that more than two-thirds (69 per cent) say they would consider painting a room or a wall a shade of red, with accent walls, bedrooms and front doors at the top of their wish lists.

The survey also showed Canadians recognize the positive impact red can have on their home and agree it creates a bold yet cohesive style:

• 84 per cent said a small pop of red in a room catches their attention;
• 68 per cent said a pop of red can make a space feel more elegant and cohesive;
• 56 per cent feel energized by the use of the colour red in home design, and
• 48 per cent agreed that using Rumors in the home gives them the vibe of a high-end hotel and reminds them of a luxurious hospitality space.

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“Canadians are embracing curated spaces that have a more vivid personality and reflect their love of travel, culinary arts and fashion,” added Amanda Aerin, celebrity designer and TV host of Country House Hunters Canada. “Neutrals will always find their way into a home but colours like Rumors and Cracked Pepper are bold, edgy and fun. A deep red like Rumors creates an engaging ambiance in places where people gather such as dining rooms, living spaces, kitchens; exudes vitality on front doors and entryways; and brings sumptuous glamour to bedrooms, offices and bathrooms.”

But as a designer, she would love to see Rumors used as a statement colour for a kitchen in a beautiful satin finish. She said she believes it would spark cooking creativity.

Aerin also suggests using Rumors in a colour-drenching process.

“I would definitely embrace Rumors and go all in by painting all your walls and baseboards,” said Aerin. “This approach, known as ‘colour drenching,’ is a popular trend that creates a bold, immersive environment and can even make your ceiling feel higher. It also provides the perfect backdrop for art and decor to stand out. If you are new to bold colours, starting with a hallway or an accent wall is an easy way to welcome this gorgeous, colour-drenched shade into your home.”

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If colour drenching isn’t for you, Aerin has the following suggestions.

“Rumors pairs beautifully with a range of colours, depending on the atmosphere you’re looking to create,” said Aerin.

For a soft, inviting backdrop, Blank Canvas is an excellent choice — a warm, welcoming white that offers limitless possibilities, said Aerin. “If you’re leaning towards a neutral palette with a bit more character, Even Better Beige is an elevated neutral that adds subtle distinction while complementing Rumors perfectly.”

For a more layered and harmonious look, Rumors works wonderfully with Nutmeg Frost, a warm, pale tone that balances the depth of Rumors and creates a cohesive, serene space. Alternatively, if you’re looking to introduce a cool contrast, consider incorporating Frosted Jade in decor items or furniture, said Aerin. This fresh, cool hue contrasts beautifully with Rumors, adding a dynamic touch to any room.

Finally, pair Rumors with other decorative finishes such as a metallic spray paint in gold or oil-rubbed bronze and light interior wood tones like White Wash Pickling.

Rumors is available in Behr Dynasty and Behr Marquee, as well as Behr Ultra and Behr Premium Plus, exclusively at The Home Depot Canada.

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