Shades of Sunshine: Interpreting Colors That Go with Yellow

Introducing a Bold Primary Color
Yellow is one of the primary colors, when used in a room it sets an unmistakable tone of vibrancy and vitality. It’s an energetic hue that is bold and related to the sun and warmth. Taking advantage of the right yellow hues and the right color palettes can significantly contribute to the overall look and feel of a space.

Accenting The Primary Color with Colors That Compliment Yellow
When pairing colors, it’s important to consider the energy they give off when combined. Darker colors tend to tone down the intensity of a room while earthy hues add a sense of natural balance. Utilizing different shades is key to creating an eye-catching aesthetic.

In order to pair yellow correctly, there are a few abstract thoughts to consider. First, the type of mood you want to create. Is the space a room for business, pleasure, or both? Are you looking for a playful palette to create vibrancy or a more monochromatic look to produce serenity? Once the desired mood is determined, it will be easier to decide which colors will be a good match for the yellow.

Second, it’s important to consider the color temperature, intensity and saturation of the yellow. Colors with a higher intensity will draw more attention and colors with a softer tone are more calming and blend more easily. If the yellow is a more muted, tonal hue, then colors that are slightly more tactile will stand out against it. Lastly, the size of the room once again plays a role in which colors are best suited. Saturated colors are better in a small room to avoid an overwhelming feel, while brighter colors work better in larger spaces.

Examples of Colors That Go with Yellow

Grey
Whether used in the same tone or in different variations, yellow and grey pairs well together. The color grey can act as a neutralizer and can easily be layered with other colors in the room. This color combination works especially well when using a cheery yellow, so the room doesn’t look dated.

Mint
Vibrant mint colors have a feminine and whimsical feel, perfect for creating a more playful atmosphere in the room. The combination of a brighter shade of yellow with a softer mint creates a sense of balance and harmony.

Pink
The combination of pink and yellow is classic. This combination works best when the pink is a bright, bubble gum hue accompanied by a tonal, cheerful yellow shade. This duo is great for kids’ rooms and can easily be incorporated in other parts of the home with cheery artwork or brightly patterned accessories.

Navy Blue
If you’re looking to create a more mature aesthetic, pairing mustard yellow with navy blue should be your go-to. At first thought, it may sound like the two colors won’t match, but if the yellow is tonal and the navy is saturated, it works. Together they act as a neutral duo to create a chic, modern look.

Green
If you’re attempting to bring in a natural vibe to the room, green is a great choice. Green’s calming energy pair with a muted yellow to soothe and act as a gateway to the outdoors. The combination of the two colors is especially great for bathrooms, where the appeal of soft, subtle shades can be more comforting.

The Many Ways to Pair Yellow
Whether you’re looking for a bold, modern look or something calm and natural, yellow is a great primary color to start with. So, don’t be anxious to pair your yellow hues with other colors, just make sure you’re aware of the emotions the specific colors you have chosen evoke and the atmosphere they create. The result will be a bright, refreshing look for any living space.