What Colours Go With Yellow?

There's never been a better time to introduce some sunshine yellow to your living spaces. While some people are put off by using bright yellow and citrus hues to decorate their interiors, this vibrant colour family is perfect for re-imaging tired spaces in need of a makeover. 

Yellow walls might not seem like the easiest blank canvas to work with, but bright shades can be just as versatile as neutrals if you're using the right accent colours. A bold yellow makes a classic combination of pure white and solid black, while pastel yellow walls can be enriched with hints of pale pink and cool tones. 

Bright yellow walls are a great choice for south-facing rooms that receive plenty of natural light. However, a sunny shade will make a welcome addition to any space that's lacking warmth, making it a go-to palette for living rooms and dining areas. 

Thinking about working yellow into your next interior design project? At Tikkurila, you'll find everything from muted pastel shades to neon yellow. 

The Range of Yellow Paint Colours

Not every yellow paint colour is the same shade as a lemon peel. In fact, this colour family is incredibly broad, offering something for everyone. 

Planning on creating a more relaxing retreat for sleeping? A yellow bedroom might not seem like an obvious choice, but creamy neutrals are a fine starting point for an inspired yellow bedroom. 

Pale yellow also works nicely in kitchens, especially if your space benefits from a south-facing aspect. Soft yellow walls underscored with a hint of green will take on a whole new dimension once the morning light floods in. 

This stylish shade can also be used to infuse more contemporary spaces with character. Pair it with classic black and pure white for a dazzling twist on monochromatic decor. If you're overhauling a more traditional interior, reach for richer hues like golden yellow that will go down well with more pared-back schemes. 

What Goes With Yellow?

What colour goes with yellow? While these yellow tones might seem like they won't play well with other hues, you'd be surprised at how much of the colour palette works with these sunshine shades. With a little creative flair, hot pink, bright green and sky blue all make fine additions to any yellow-infused space. 

Greys

Grey and yellow work incredibly well together. They're a popular combination in more contemporary spaces, but this low-key pairing can transform just about any interior. The right shade of yellow can give cooler greys an instant lift, but you can use both palettes in equal measure to great effect. 

If you're considering using this classic pairing, take you to think carefully when selecting paint colours. Joy H303 is a safe bet if you're looking to avoid more daring yellow hues. This velvet yellow is easy on the eye and works well alongside everything from muted grey to saturated charcoal hues. 

If you're starting from scratch, you'll also need to consider your options when picking out grey shades. If you've chosen a softer yellow, a cooler-toned grey like Bungalow G500 is a good idea. 

Cocoa Butter F392 is another standout yellow. Light and inviting, this cream-infused shade will elevate an all-grey interior, bringing essential warmth. 

Were you thinking about a more dramatic colour combination? A darker grey like Surf S500 will impress with its misty pigment. Even if you're using this one liberally, you can balance things out with a subtle lift of yellow. 

Blues

Blue and yellow are polar opposites on the colour wheel. This makes them one of the most harmonious colour pairings around. Dark navy will look right at home alongside syrupy yellows, while more muted blue shades sit well next to pastels. 

Want to make a statement with these classic complementary colours? Start with a yellow like Straw H456. This pastel shade is incredibly versatile and can be used just about anywhere. You'll also have no trouble when balancing it out with your blue of choice. 

While low-key blues will work nicely here, think about going in a more daring direction with a deep blue like Royal M436. This stunning shade has a vibrant green undertone, which will take on a new dimension if used in south-facing spaces. 

Thinking about something more stubble? An off-white shade like Camelia F300 is a good starting point. This neutral paint colour has delicate yellow undertones, making it suitable for light-filled spaces.

If you're using a muted neutral, a more balanced blue is the best pairing. Secret X438 combines elements of grey and blue, which both pair beautifully with yellow hues. What's more, green undertones bring added vibrancy.

Neutrals

If you're eager to embrace yellow, but are worried about what to pair it with, play it safe by using neutrals as your base. Many neutral shades have yellow undertones themselves, meaning they'll blend seamlessly with more daring colours. 

Start with creamy yellow like Parmesan F302. Light and refreshing, this is a fine alternative to off-white and will wipe the slate clean in any room. You can then start introducing delicate neutrals into the mix. 

Consider using a pale grey if you want to keep things balanced. Feather F487 is a good idea here. If your room is still calling out for some colour, think about using decorative yellow accents to liven things up. 

If you're a fan of richer shades, go with something like Ducato L392. This golden yellow is perfect for living spaces and more intimate corners of the home like dining rooms. 

A warm off-white like Mulberry H484 will add an elegant extra layer to your space. Its grey undertones make it a classic companion to yellow, while its jewel-toned character brings sophistication. 

Browns

An earthy palette will also work well in living rooms and entertaining spaces. Shades of mushroom and brown are also suitable pairings to a yellow decor scheme. 

If you want to experiment with this stylish colour combination, use a lighter yellow like Papyrus Y392 to get things started. With its creamy character, it makes an understated addition to any room and is a gorgeous alternative to typical off-white paint colours. 

You can think about bringing a more dramatic colour into play. Reach for a chocolate brown like Alexandrite N464 to bring some rich sophistication to your yellow-inspired interior. 

Lighter hues can also be used here. A pastel yellow Sorbet F306 will give your room an instant refresh, while an elegant brown like Desert V463 serves as a classic counterpoint. What's more, simmering red undertones bring a hint of warmth.