Don’t Be Afraid of a Little Orange
Orange—that Halloween mainstay—is not generally the first thing that comes to mind when choosing a color for a room. That’s a shame, because orange can perk up a lifeless space. It makes a bold statement. It’s brazen and confident and slightly unpredictable. You don’t see it coming, but it tends to make its presence known. Here’s a good way to think about it: incorporating orange into a room’s color scheme is a lot like arguing with someone—success often depends upon your tone.
Don’t be afraid to use this quirky color in your home décor; it won’t come back to haunt you.
Photo: Marisa Pellegrini—Design NJ June/July 2015 | Designer: Patricia Turchyn | Architect: Anderson Campanella Architects | Builder: Goodhue Bros. Builders
Bold bits of deep orange can loosen up a tailored room.
Photo: David Van Scott—Design NJ February/March 2008 | Designer: Jeanne Benner
You don’t need to make a permanent commitment to orange; use seasonal accessories in a rich autumnal shade to liven up a dinner party.
Photo: Marisa Pellegrini, Design NJ October/November 2015 | Design: Patricia Turchyn
Dark orange wallcovering, along with smaller pops of a lighter shade, can bring warmth to a room.
Photo: Peter Rymwid, Design NJ April/May 2008 | Design: Manning Design Group
Bright orange can be tempered if surrounded by soothing tones.
Photo: Peter Rymwid, Design NJ April/May 2008 | Design: Shannon Hall Designs
Orange shows its serious side as a dignified background color.
Photo: Peter Rymw—Design NJ August/September 2008 | Design: Manning Design Group
Burnt orange can bring a refreshing hit of color to a neutral space.
Photo: Tim Proctor, Design NJ February/March 2015 | Photo Stylist: Diane Burgoyne Interiors | Architect: Thomas B. Wagner AIA
Upbeat orange accessories in a lively shade contrast with deep wood tones to bring a fresh feel to traditional decor.