Put bluntly, your hallway can carry more deep red than it thinks. This William Morrisinspired piece of a black cat hidden in foliage proves it without shouting.

The wall gains a focal point that earns a second look. The deep red flowers and mustard accents warm the space; the near-black ground makes the surrounding paint look more considered, whatever shade you’ve used.

It loves a narrow hallway, a snug reading corner or a small study wall anywhere a vertical anchor pulls the eye up. Hang at eye level on a plain wall so the foliage detail reads cleanly.

Pair with aged leather, oak woodwork, brass switch plates, a rush runner and stoneware in deep reds. Heavy linen curtains and a low table lamp finish the mood.

What to avoid: don’t crowd it with other busy patterned art on the same wall this piece wants room to breathe. Wrapped on a sturdy wooden frame with a deep edge that holds the dark ground beautifully.