Black, white and red room

Photo: Courtesy of Behr

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Black, White and Red: The Chameleon-Like Trio
Two neutrals with a primary color will almost always work together, but the combination of black, white and red has been particularly popular over the years for its ability to convey different moods. When white and black are prominently featured and a candy-apple red is used as an accent, the room has a graphic, modern feel. For a more traditional home, a dining room in a berrylike red with white trim and black furniture can feel opulent and refined, says Erika Woelfel, director of color marketing at Behr Paints.

To make sure you don't overdo it with any one color, Woelfel suggests following the 60-30-10 rule: 60 percent of the room should be in your main color, 30 percent should be in the secondary color and 10 percent for the accessories (think rugs, throw pillows, frames and art).