10 December 2020
Despite many positive features attributed to yellow, it is a colour that should be brought into interiors with some moderation and caution. But knowing how to combine it, you can achieve a great effect that will surprise you with its energy and character. Yellow colour can generally be used on any interior item. We will focus on tips on how to create a beautiful apartment using a yellow sofa or a yellow armchair.
Yellow fabric upholstery makes the Olbia sofa even more cosy, and the whole interior becomes very radiant and sunny – interior design by Łukasz Święcicki – løøDESIGN+ interior design studio
Energy that stimulates
Yellow is associated with good energy and optimism. It illuminates the interior, so that it looks more sunny. It has a positive impact on the residents’ mood and has a stimulating effect. In accordance with the ancient philosophy of Feng Shui, this colour is recommended in particular for home interiors where household members spend time together everyday, such as living rooms or dining rooms. It is believed that yellow has a positive influence on people staying in rooms where that colour is used. Through its warm aura and the load of sunny, life-giving energy, it can strengthen interpersonal bonds and stimulate extroverted attitudes.
The Veneto corner sofa in a shade of honey in a bold combination with a blue carpet and modern decorations – the living room in the apartment of Jacek Szawioła, known from GoggleBox series
This colour is especially important in the Chinese tradition, where it used to be reserved exclusively for emperors. In Tibetan Buddhism, this colour is linked to the element of earth, the wisdom of equality, the south and balance. In Hinduism, it symbolises knowledge, learning, meditation and contemplation, improving the mental discipline and focus.
Good company
To fully appreciate yellow in the interior and its beneficial impact on our mood and atmosphere, we should provide it with a well-chosen company. This colour perfectly matches all neutral shades, especially grey and white, which make an excellent complement. Such combination ensures a harmonious and coherent appearance.
Against the background of a wall in a deep shade of emerald, the yellow Forli armchair looks very impressive in an interesting, energetic colour composition – design by Sandra Białkowska, Dobry Układ interior design studio
Green walls, particularly in a deep emerald shade, can be a good background for yellow leisure furniture. This duo ensures spring freshness and a sense of connection with nature. Expressive, high-contrast compositions can be achieved by combining yellow with black. A yellow sofa or a yellow corner sofa on black, high legs will look very chic and elegant. You may also bring out the contrast beautifully by combining yellows with blues to build associations with a clear sky illuminated by sun.
The yellow Fido armchair with a footrest, in a shade of honey, will perfectly blend in with an interior decorated in the English or French style, ensuring a subtle and nostalgic atmosphere
The shades of yellow in interiors are a strong colour accent that brings some sunshine to our homes. This colour brightens up and gives a positive character. When our interior is in neutral colours, it is a good idea to add one yellow item, such as armchair.
Sandra Białkowska, architect, owner of Dobry Układ interior design studio
Yellow is a colour that deserves attention. It likes to attract attention and to be the most prominent and strongest point in the interior. So you should use it with moderation as one distinctive element. Its expressiveness is clearly highlighted by an intriguing play of light and shadow on the surface of fabrics. A yellow sofa upholstered in velvet or velure looks truly royal, yet also cosy and “fluffy”.
If you want your yellow corner sofa to look more cosy and “fluffy”, cover it with a velure fabric to add even more three-dimensional features
What else do yellow sofas, armchairs and corner sofas go well with? Certainly with light wood, whether on the floor or cabinet furniture, preferably in a simple and modern form. However, bear in mind that because of its dominant character, yellow should not be applied excessively. Then, it can tire and irritate instead of having a positive effect on the mood. Like black and red, this colour has a very strong impact on mental well-being. So it is best to find a balance and a golden mean.
For women or men?
Contrary to appearances, yellow works equally well in interiors with strongly emphasized feminine element as well as in typical male spaces. For example, it can be an energetic and characterful addition like a modern yellow armchair in a simple form or a minimalist honey corner sofa that will ensure a comfortable afternoon rest. It allows you to make effective arrangements in very different styles – from a highly feminine glamour style, to scandi aimed at harmony with nature, to a strict minimalist style.
Interior for a young man – the main role in the room is played by the yellow Vigo armchair, which perfectly complements the grey Monday sofa (Gala Collezione) – design by Sandra Białkowska, Dobry Układ interior design studio | photo: Prototypownia studio
If the “man cave” is dominated by the grey of concrete, ash, black and subdued white, a yellow eye-catching element will definitely brighten the space and add a very effective predatory, dramatic character. It will look particularly good in a smaller room – brightening it up with the feeling of visual spaciousness. Its extraordinary impact on building a cosy atmosphere can be appreciated especially in an apartment with windows facing north and east, where the access of light is limited. Yellow will make it seem brighter, cosier and filled with an optimistic spirit. In large and spacious rooms, it is better to focus on individual yellow accents rather than saturating the design with that colour.
Black and grey are the perfect company for the intensely yellow Vigo armchair – design by Sandra Białkowska, Dobry Układ interior design studio | photo: Prototypownia studio