Stunning colours that complement burgundy

The intensity of burgundy makes it a perfect companion for rich, elegant interiors.

Opulent and sophisticated, burgundy is more than strong enough to stand alone. However, when fused with golden tones or paired alongside the subtlety of a soft blush, it takes on new heights.

Autumnal at heart and linked with one of France’s most famous wine regions, palettes which use this deeper take on red are typically serious and refined. But as with all things colour, you can achieve different effects through the pairings you choose.

So, embrace all things burgundy as we delve into the theory behind its appeal and explore our favourite colours to support this intense shade.

Burgundy is a mix of red, blue, and green. As it leans more to the redder part of that spectrum, it’s commonly associated with strength and power. However, the subtle notes of green give it a slightly more natural feel than its brighter counterparts. And through those very subtle hints of blue, there’s also a sense of calm and assuredness within the tone.

While the colour has clear links to vintage red wine – named after one of France’s most famous wine regions, no less – there’s more to the shade than its full-bodied flavour.  A popular shade across gothic subculture, while also indicative of power and ambition, this is a tone with many applications.

How you use it, and the resulting effect, is all about how you pair it with other colourways. We’ll touch on that a little further on, but first, let’s explore some basic rules for using burgundy in your next home project.

1. Given its depth, burgundy can be overwhelming when used too heavily. Pair with light greys, whites, and other softer neutrals to create contrast.
2. Less is often more when it comes to burgundy. Consider small hints surrounded by lighter pastels to energise and uplift the space.
3. Due to its strong links to power and ambition, burgundy is perfectly complemented by luxury textures like silk, velvet, and faux fur.
4. When working with tight spaces, ensure as much natural light comes into the room as possible. If your windows are small, use light colours and reflective surfaces to brighten up those deep burgundy tones.

Credit: @at.home.with.konnie

1. Burgundy with pink

Romantic and beguiling, this red-infused palette is perfect for inspiring connection.

Pair the seriousness of burgundy with the playful character of pink for a bedroom that’s perfectly balanced and romantic at heart. As both colours have strong notes of red within their make-up, they’re perfect for layering one over the other.

Take inspiration from the example above and paint your walls pink. Sprinkle burgundy over the top with bedding and scatter cushions to create an adult palette that’s rich in some areas and soothing in others.

Credit: colorpalettes.net

2. Deep burgundy with green

Escape to an enchanting haven that evokes curiosity and mystique with shades of burgundy and green.

The bold combination of burgundy and green creates a unique contrast that is as exotic as it is balanced. Hardly surprising, given that burgundy and green are colour-wheel compatriots.

Opt for a deep green to match the richness of burgundy and create a unison that a master suite deserves. The beauty of this colour combination is that it can be applied to more than just your bedding and wall décor.

As shown in the above colour scheme by colorpalettes.net, these rich tones are great for evoking a sense of the natural world. Embrace this by accessorising with the hanging leaves of a Spider plant or a basket of Golden Pothos.

For extra sophistication, dark-stained floorboards will help ground the room in deep, natural tones.

3. Burgundy and navy

A deep and regal allure for refined sophistication.

Analogous to burgundy – which simply means their neighbours on the colour wheel – navy blue is an ideal partner to this rich tone.

Deep and sophisticated, both are masters of creating calm without losing any of their show-stopping appeal. Combine these colours with sumptuous velvet materials and incorporate decorative pillows for that extra level of indulgence.

As above, it’s worth trying to brighten your burgundy palette too. Bring in notes of white with your bedding and warm the space with ochres, mauves, and natural woods.

For more on how to pair navy, check out our post on navy blue colour palettes.

4. Burgundy with golds, coppers, and chromes

A powerful combination blending rich warmth with dashing luxury – a pairing fit for royalty.

Pair luxury metals with dashes of burgundy to create an air of noble elegance within the bedroom. This aristocratic colour palette works great alongside decorative furnishings such as hanging lights and textured rugs.

Consider rustic copper elements such as exposed piping or intricate golden wall décor on a burgundy backdrop. Be aware when using metallic details, though, that too much can be off-putting. Try to create small moments across your room. For example, chrome furniture handles or framed mirrors can be enough.

5. Burgundy and natural woods

Evoke woodland vibes with this blend of burgundy and oak patinas.

Despite its connotations to power and royalty, burgundy also contains hints of nature. Reminiscent of autumn leaves, and with subtle hints of green in its makeup, it works great alongside natural tones such as light woods, olives, and clay.

When working with natural woods, it’s important to weave in other elements of the outdoors. Take the advice of pellabranch.com, for example:

Stick to earthy tones, terracotta vases, marble coffee tables, wicker baskets and wooden furniture pieces. These all work together to add texture and warmth to a room, creating an organic look that produces a relaxed, calm vibe.

6. Burgundy and white

Bring light and depth to a burgundy palette with energising white.

Although it’s incredibly popular with moodier bedroom designs, burgundy can also work in a bright, energising palette. However, it’s best to opt for creamy whites rather than stark tones. This will connect the lighter hues of your space to the depth of burgundy, ensuring the contrast isn’t too overwhelming.

As above, consider centralising your use of burgundy and surrounding it with whites, creams and soft yellows. This will allow the notes of burgundy to take centre stage.

Surprisingly, this works well in rooms of all shapes and sizes. In larger spaces, placing burgundy centrally will draw the eye inwards, making the room feel wider. In smaller spaces, the deep red will benefit from the contrast of white walls and light carpets.

Credit: @sorbetcolour

7. Burgundy and orange

Mediterranean sunset vibes for a warming, cocoon-like sanctuary.

There’s nothing better than watching a sunset on a summer evening, so why not replicate that whilst settling down for the night? Radiate warm lighting onto a burgundy backdrop or cosy up in honeycomb bedsheets with maroon scatter cushions.

Be wary about overdoing it with this combination, though. Neutral hints throughout will help balance the space. As in the above palette from SORBETCOLOUR, light greys, soft blues, and creamy whites will cool the space and help energise those lavish undertones.