Say yes to yellow

The annual ‘colour of the year’ announcements are always eagerly awaited by those who follow interior trends. The first to stick its head above the parapet and make an announcement this year is paint specialist Dulux. Its Colour of the Year 2025 is True Joy.

A mellow yellow

True Joy is a warm, golden yellow, described as a shade determined to fill homes with ‘energy, optimism and pride’. It’s a move away from the safer, more muted neutrals of previous years (Bright Skies, Wild Wonder and Sweet Embrace) and because of its bold pigment, it won’t be the first choice for everyone looking to redecorate.

Acknowledging this, Dulux admits True Joy may require users to jump out of their comfort zone and as such, there is plenty of advice on how to use this uplifting yellow as an accent colour or statement feature.

Find a neutral partner

Combining True Joy with other colours can be a great way to introduce yellow into the home without it feeling too sickly. Dulux suggests pairing 2025’s Colour of the Year with Wild Wonder, Pocket Stone, Quiet Hideaway or Weathered Pebble – four soft neutrals that can be the canvas on which you paint True Joy.

Small but sunny

Restrained flashes of yellow can still have a big, cheery impact. Consider painting just your door frames or skirting boards in True Joy (the paint can be mixed in a variety of finishes to suit all surfaces, including wood).

To make a bigger impression, True Joy can be applied to just one wall, creating a sunny feature that’s bound to bring a smile to your face. The shade works well in nurseries, studies and utility rooms, and sits comfortably with all types of wood.

Paint a step too far? If you want to say ‘yes’ to yellow but don’t feel brave enough to slather your walls in True Joy (or perhaps you live in rented accommodation), accessories are the way to go. You can instantly lift sofas out of the doldrums by adding some zingy yellow cushions and a golden-hued throw. Or why not paint some picture frames in True Joy and add some black and white photos to make a very sophisticated photo wall?

What do the colour experts say about yellow?

True Joy shouldn’t be discounted just because it is a vibrant colour. In fact, it’s often the richer shades that offer the most in terms of colour therapy. Yellow is arguably the most uplifting colour on the spectrum, often associated with vitality, joy, clarity and enthusiasm. It can be energising and stimulating, and can work well at combating anxiety and exhaustion. Use yellow if you want to feel more cheery, optimistic and inspired.

If you’re contemplating selling a property you own and would like decorating advice ahead of a sale, please contact us. Looking for a property that you can personalise to your tastes? Ask us for our list of available flats and houses.

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