If you’re looking for an easy way to update your house, color can quickly inject some life into your space. Two of the hottest shades this year, yellow and orange, bring to mind citrus and sunshine. This week, we wanted to give you a few, simple tips for each color. Whether you’re comfortable going bold or would prefer a neutral palette, there’s a way for you to bring these hues into your home.

YELLOW
How wonderful yellow is. It stands for the sun. -Vincent Van Gogh

When it comes to the color psychology of yellow, it’s often described as cheery and warm. But, be warned. It’s said to create feelings of frustration and anger. People are more likely to lose their tempers in yellow rooms, and babies tend to cry more. However, we can’t picture anyone flipping a table in this dining room.

But, it’s not all bad. Yellow can increase the metabolism. Is anyone else getting ready for swimsuit season?

Since yellow is the most visible color, it is also grabs the most attention. Use it in small doses to draw focus, like a traffic sign or in advertisements.

Not sure how to use yellow? Try it with white. The combination is classic and beautiful. We think pale yellows can make a room feel wonderful, bright and sunny. It’s very pretty with lots of natural light.

ORANGE
Orange is very blatant and vulgar. It makes you immediately start having feelings.–Wolf Kahn

A combination of yellow and red, orange is considered an energetic color. It can call to mind feelings of excitement, enthusiasm and warmth. As a matter of fact, tangerine was named color of the year. I wonder if it gets a crown.

Like yellow, orange is also used to draw attention. It is a wonderful accent color and in a way, is refreshing. There is something very citrus about orange, and to us, it’s a very happy color.

That being said, orange is a more aggressive shade with lots of energy. We wouldn’t typically use it in kids’ rooms, as it could make settling down more difficult. However, it can be quite lovely kitchens.