How to Pick the Right Yellow
Which of These 9 Types of Yellow is the Paint Color for You?
Yellow is a color of many meanings. It is the warmth of the sun and the renewal we see in the first flowers of spring. When paired with black it warns us of danger, and when we see a yellow bow, it encourages us to hope. When used in our homes, yellow is much less complex. Rather, yellow becomes a welcoming, happy hue that brightens our spirits. Because yellow is one of the most vivid colors in the spectrum, it can be a scary paint color choice, but fear not! Here are some tips for selecting the yellow that is just right for you.
More: How to Find the Right White
More: How to Find the Right White
Acid yellow. The color combo in this space is what I refer to as "black, white and a touch of sunlight." Here, the yellow of choice is very saturated with a slight green undertone. Although this is a very bold color, its intensity is tempered by the surrounding black and white. See more of this house.
Paint pick: Quilt Gold 6696 by Sherwin-Williams
Paint pick: Quilt Gold 6696 by Sherwin-Williams
Banana yellow. Warm tropical yellows are very complementary to neutral furnishings. Banana and brown is somewhat of a '70s retro color palette but it can also add a lighthearted twist to a more formal space.
Paint pick: Jonquil 6674 by Sherwin-Williams
Paint pick: Jonquil 6674 by Sherwin-Williams
Orange yellow. If you're searching for a not-so-ordinary yellow that has a bit of a kick, try a yellow with honey-orange undertones. It's a delicious color similar to that of a juicy melon.
Paint pick: Afterglow 6667 by Sherwin-Williams
Paint pick: Afterglow 6667 by Sherwin-Williams
Medium yellow. To keep a yellow room from feeling too warm, add a cool complementary accent color, such as green.
Paint pick: Mellow Yellow 2020-50 by Benjamin Moore
Paint pick: Mellow Yellow 2020-50 by Benjamin Moore
Saffron yellow. Deeper yellows take on a rich, golden appearance. Colors like saffron add luxury and elegance to a space. This spicy hue also creates a striking backdrop in rooms with a cultural theme, such as a Moroccan-inspired space.
Paint pick: Torchlight 6374 by Sherwin-Williams
Paint pick: Torchlight 6374 by Sherwin-Williams
Sunny yellow. There's no better way to accentuate a sunroom than with sunny yellow walls. This type of yellow has just a bit of orange. In this space, both the walls and ceiling are painted, mimicking the sunlight — even on cloudy days.
Paint pick: June Day 6682 by Sherwin-Williams
Paint pick: June Day 6682 by Sherwin-Williams
Dandelion yellow. If your child enjoys bright colors, yellow is a great choice for her (or his) bedroom. And when it comes to adding accent colors, the brighter the better. In this room, a dandelion wall color sets the stage for vibrant pink curtains. What a great room for creative, happy thoughts!
Paint pick: Amarillo 320 by Benjamin Moore
More:
How to Find the Right Gray
How to Find the Right Blue
How to Find the Right White
How to Find the Right Green
Paint pick: Amarillo 320 by Benjamin Moore
More:
How to Find the Right Gray
How to Find the Right Blue
How to Find the Right White
How to Find the Right Green
Paint pick: Yellow Highlighter 2021-40 by Benjamin Moore