Expert shares paint colour to use in north-facing rooms that 'brings warmth'

Yello wall paint is a great choice (Image: Getty)

Whether you love your yellows mellow, mustardy, or muted, there’s no denying this cheerful hue has been everywhere this year, from high-fashion runways to home décor trends. The buzz around yellow isn’t fading anytime soon.

Google searches for "yellow décor" have remained steady, and the announcement of True Joy as Dulux’s Colour of the Year 2025 has cemented this shade as the star of a full-fledged yellow movement.

Looking to harness the uplifting energy of yellow in your own home?

Dulux Creative Director Marianne Shillingford shares why yellow is such a transformative choice and offers expert tips to help you bring its positivity to your space. 

Yellow evokes optimism, creativity, and warmth, according to Marianne. "When we think of yellow, we picture hazy summer days, zesty lemons, and vibrant sunflowers. It’s tied to nature’s most joyful offerings, energising us just as blues and greens soothe us," she says.

Yellow can change the vibe of the room (Image: Getty)

While yellow may seem bold and daunting, Marianne assures there’s a shade for everyone, from soft, muted Honey Nut to radiant California Days. "Yellow can bring incredible warmth and happiness into a home," she adds.

Five ways to bring yellow into your home

1. Create winter sunshine

As the colder months approach, yellow can brighten even the gloomiest spaces. "In north-facing rooms, yellow paint or accents can bring much-needed warmth and light," Marianne suggests.

One striking option is painting your ceiling yellow to mimic the sunny skies of a tropical retreat—perfect for bedrooms, where you’ll wake to a glowing "sun" overhead.

Another idea: frame your windows with yellow to create a buttercup-like glow when sunlight streams through.

2. Energise your mornings in the bathroom

Yellow works wonders in spaces where you want an energising start to the day. "Yellow in bathrooms is like your favourite lemony shower gel—zesty, refreshing, and invigorating," says Marianne.

Whether you choose a bold statement wall or subtle accents, explore the Bold, Human & Proud palettes inspired by Dulux’s 2025 Colour of the Year to find complementary tones for your existing bathroom décor.

3. Add Unexpected Pops of Yellow

Yellow is an excellent accent colour, adding playfulness and zing to your décor. "Small touches, like painting doorways or quirky architectural details, are perfect for introducing yellow without overwhelming a space," Marianne explains.

These pops of colour help define zones and highlight features, creating visual interest throughout your home.

4. Get Creative With Feature Walls

"For a bold statement, try a hand-painted wall pattern or freeform design that showcases something meaningful to you," Marianne suggests.

This method not only introduces yellow into your space but also forms a unique focal point and conversation starter.

5. Embrace the vibrancy of yellow by turning it into art

Yellow's invigorating qualities make it perfect for workspaces, craft rooms, or even home gyms. "Decorate your desk area with touches of yellow to boost creativity and productivity," Marianne advises.

Upcycled desk accessories, yellow frames, or shelving accents are simple ways to incorporate the colour. If you find it inspiring, you can always add more!

Whether you're ready to go bold with a feature wall or simply want a subtle accent, yellow offers endless possibilities to brighten your space and mood.

As Marianne puts it, "With a shade for everyone, yellow brings warmth, energy, and happiness into any home."