Radiating creative energy, optimism, and pride, Dulux's Colour of the Year for 2025, True Joy™️, reflects a clear shift in interior design. As 2024 has shown us, our fast-paced, tech-driven society is increasingly seeking out safe spaces that energise, revive, and inspire - an antidote to the hustle and bustle of daily life. True Joy™’s striking yellow tone offers the perfect solution: bold and uplifting, it packs interiors with a sense of playfulness and personality, transforming even the simplest rooms into a truly unforgettable experience.
Yellow, of course, is one of the more daring colours on the spectrum, but its ability to invigorate and inspire is unmatched. From glowing golds to mellow mustards, there are plenty of ways to incorporate this hue into your interiors - whether with statement walls or subtle accents balanced by complementary tones. Whatever your aesthetic preferences, this blog will explore the best sunshine-filled surfaces to elevate commercial or residential spaces. Even better, you can find and sample them all here at our London-based material studio.
A bold palette paired with a striking pattern is a surefire way to turn heads, and that’s why Tektura’s Prospectus Yellow wallcovering earns its rightful spot on our True Joy™-inspired list. Originally crafted by Joan Charnley, a prolific textile designer who ruled the 1960s and 70s, this whimsical wallcovering breaks up a vibrant backdrop with intricate abstract shapes - a true showcase of her love for daring design.
The wallcovering can be paired with neutral furnishings to let its vibrant yellow shine, or it can be contrasted with darker accents for a more dramatic, sophisticated look. The beauty of this design lies in its versatility, meaning it works just as well in a bustling workspace as it does in a tranquil living room fit for taking a break from normality.
Mustard offers a softer, more inviting take on yellow, blending vintage-inspired charm with modern appeal. Being one of the earthier tones on the colour wheel, it adds instant depth and character to interiors - whether through walls, tiles, or accents - resulting in a timeless aesthetic that feels both comforting and refined.
In a stunning interior transformation by designer Amy Stoddart Studio, bright yellow tiles and mustard metro accents are immediately elevated by VADO’s warming brushed gold brassware. The metallic finish subtly enhances the richness of mustard without overpowering it, creating a cohesive, luxurious look that makes bathrooms and kitchens alike feel more inviting.
Vibrant yellow pigments are certain to make a statement, but grounding them with softer, natural elements is key to achieving the right balance. Honey-toned woods, like Kronospan’s Honey Castello Oak, provide the perfect foundation. The soft golden hues of this material beautifully complement yellow, enhancing its vibrancy without the risk of overwhelming the space.
Beyond its comforting colouring, the textured quality of this wood introduces an earthy, organic feel that sets the tone for relaxation. Whether used for flooring, cabinetry, or decorative panels, Honey Castello Oak bridges the gap between yellow's boldness and a grounded, nature-inspired aesthetic, making the material a must for both residential and commercial interiors.
Lively lemon is the ultimate choice for bringing cheerful, uplifting pops of colour into a room. This radiant, sunny shade injects energy into any environment, instantly elevating its mood - an aesthetic that works especially well in personality-filled kitchens, bathrooms, or alternatively in smaller areas that could use an extra dose of brightness.
A tile collection designed to unlock this look is Johnson Tiles’ Tuscany in Lemon Gloss. Inspired by bright palettes reminiscent of Moroccan decor, its delicately shined finish amplifies natural light, making it ideal for crafting an eye-catching feature wall or splashback. Pair it with crisp white tiles and bold yellow grout for a playful design, or contrast it with deep blues and rich greens if you’re feeling more adventurous.
Amber’s rich, golden-orange colouring sits on the bolder side of the broader yellow spectrum, evoking feelings of excitement and adventure. According to Dulux, this vibrant colour is especially effective in educational and workplace settings, where it inspires creativity and motivation, offering a lively alternative to dull white walls.
To fully embrace amber, consider pairing it with neutral backdrops and subtle yellow accents. For instance, an amber-painted feature wall can create a striking focal point in a meeting room, while adding yellow furnishings and soft grey tones can balance the boldness, softening the overall feel and adding depth.
Johnson Tiles’ Kerastar collection exemplifies this balance beautifully, showcasing bold amber tones paired with the calming neutrals of chalk and bronze. Warm wood furnishings further elevate the look, resulting in a vibrant yet grounded hospitality space that feels both energising and inviting.
Gold is a timeless complement to yellow, sharing its uplifting and energising qualities. Its warm metallic sheen introduces a layer of luxury to interiors, while its depth balances yellow’s boldness. Designers like Giles Miller, renowned for his award-winning surfaces and sculptures, use gold to create interiors that “benefit the human experience.” By drawing on neuroscientific insights, his work demonstrates how rich, metallic materials can uplift commercial spaces through the power of texture and light.
While working brilliantly as a standalone shade, gold can also be married with True Joy™️ yellow, deep sapphire blue, and warming chestnut - according to Dulux. Despite radiating alternative aesthetics individually, when they come together, it results in a proud palette that feels modern yet grounded.
Are you ready to see how yellow could transform your next design project? Whether you're drawn to the bold energy of amber or the fresh vibrancy of lemon, our London-based Material Studio is the perfect place to explore and sample our material partners' collections. Visit us today.
