How to Decorate With Muted Yellow

Consult a color wheel to learn what colors work best with muted yellow. Color harmony occurs when different shades are put together to create a color combination that pleases the eye. An analogous color scheme based around muted yellow uses the two colors on either side on the color wheel. Colors that are analogous to muted yellow might include a brighter yellow, yellow-green, yellow-orange and orange, depending on the shade of muted yellow you are using. A complementary color scheme is made using a given color and the color directly across from it on the color wheel. This creates a stable contrasting effect. Muted yellow shades are complemented by shades of blue-violet and violet. Use these colors to create harmonious design projects.

Decide on a color theme for the space you are decorating. You can achieve a contemporary effect by adding elements of orange and purple to muted yellow. Create a look reminiscent of English interiors by adding shades of green, red and blue. Use brighter shades of yellow as well as muted yellow tones to create a sunny space. Add soft shades of red and orange to create a warm and comforting environment. Use a white trim around muted yellow surfaces to create a simple, crisp and stylish effect.

Take inspiration from nature. Colors found together in nature do not always follow a strict pattern or rules of design. However, naturally occurring color combinations are often harmonious, beautiful or striking. Take a walk outside or browse through pictures of flowers, animals or nature scenes to find inspiration. One example of a nature-inspired color combination is muted yellow walls trimmed in off-white accented with fabrics in subdued and muddy shades of brick and taupe. This set-up is inspired by colors found in a farmer's field in late summer.