Home > Magazine > How to Decorate With Yellow in Modern Interiors

It's bright and uplifting, energising and friendly. Yellow - the colour of sunshine - selected by Pantone as the colour of 2009 because 'in a time of economic uncertainty and political change, optimism is paramount and no other colour expresses hope and reassurance more than yellow'. It can create a contemporary style within any room, adding zest and warmth. Yellow is the perfect solution for small rooms, dark hallways and areas that don't get much natural light. However, be careful not to overload as it can easily overwhelm a room.

Choosing the Right Tone

Go for warm shades of mustard which work well on their own or can be combined with cooler neutral colours. Warm gold will bring the outside in and add some radiance even on a cold winter's day. Creamy yellows are a classic and work well in spaces with limited light. Yellow usually looks darker on the walls than in the tin, so if you are going to use it on the walls go for softer shades and always paint a test patch first. See how the colour appears at various times of the day and in different lights.

Colour Schemes Using Yellow

Yellow works well with cool, neutral greys (another very contemporary colour) for a sophisticated modern interior. Use a zingy citrus tone like lime green as a secondary colour to create a vibrant scheme. Add together with fresh white, light furniture and neutral floors for a bright and welcoming feel. This is a poplular combination in Scandinavian interiors, and helps to counteract the gloomy winters.

Be careful with red and purple which can clash with yellow, and avoid using with black.

Accent with Modern Furniture and Home Accessories

Yellow works particularly well as an accent. Add some funky pieces of modern furniture to brighten up your room and give it a new lease of life. A few cushions scattered on your sofa or a rug with yellow hues will add some warmth. Be bang on trend and introduce some zesty home accessories to your kitchen and living space. Or simply add a vase with some fresh flowers in shades of yellow - always guaranteed to invigorate the mood of your interior.