Dabble with splashes of red

Happy new year! And no, I’m not three weeks late in the realisation of this auspicious occasion. I’ve been reading up on Chinese culture and today, 23 January, heralds the Year of the Dragon.

Chinese dragons, unlike their European counterparts, are benevolent and empathetic, seeking to aid the less fortunate with their immense powers. These mythical beings control the water element, whether as rain, flood or fountain, and, in Chinese homes, are often whimsically represented in and around water features, or as water itself.

The dragon factor is also often paired with red – the colour of good luck and good fortune, which, the Chinese believe, has the power ward off evil spirits. So, in the spirit of the new year, here’s a look at how you can pair these elements and attract good vibes into your home and garden.

An execution of this idea can be as simple as planting some red flowers near a water feature.

My hubby wants to cultivate some chilli bushes and I’ve been um-ing and ah-ing, not because I don’t like chillies, but because I’ve been reluctant to incorporate the warm shades of the fruits into my purple and blue potted paradise. But perhaps now I’ll allocate him some space around the fountain.

If you don’t have a garden (or are completely unrelenting on your colour scheme) try displaying cut flowers near to a water source in your home – an especially good idea if you’re a little unsure about incorporating the strong hue as a permanent decor element.

If you already have a thing for red, extend this passion into your bathroom. You can’t go wrong with a liberal splash of positive energy first thing in the morning …

Again, if wall-to-wall red just isn’t your thing, try accessorising:

Of course, this vibrant shade is at home in many other rooms as well. Try it in your dining area – although, to my mind, though, this red room looks like it’s all about wine rather than water. (That could just be me.)

Pictured below is one of my favourite interpretations of this theme: an artwork that suggests water, offset with a red accent.

Local lass Sherinne Kemp does similarly evocative work.

The more I write, the more I’m loving this fun idea. The only aspect that makes me uncomfortable is that Chinese new year is traditionally celebrated with fireworks – which makes me see red in a much more metaphorical sense.