Butter's dominance as a popular color in design could be waning, according to the opinions of some designers. They propose that these newer hues could potentially unseat yellow as the leading color.
In the ever-evolving world of interior design, a shift is underway as deeper, sun-soaked shades like ochre and muted clay begin to replace the once ubiquitous butter yellow. Designer Lauren Saab asserts that butter yellow is not over, but is evolving into something more mature.
This transformation is evident in the five colours expected to replace butter yellow in upcoming trends.
Lilac, a soft pastel with a modern edge, brings a calm and contemporary feel to spaces, pairing well with minimalist and metallic palettes.
Marigold, a rich, orange-yellow hue, offers energetic warmth and versatility, complementing colours such as burgundy, soft yellow, teal, and dusty blue.
Olive Oil Green, an earthy green tone, exudes timeless sophistication and natural warmth, functioning both as a statement colour and a neutral, compatible with styles from modern to rustic farmhouse.
Soft Yellow, a warmer, more refined evolution of butter yellow, acts as a nuanced neutral, conveying quiet luxury and emotional warmth without overwhelming a space.
Earthy Tones, inspired by nature, are also gaining popularity, including muted wood finishes and colours that pair well with the emerging palettes.
These colours reflect a shift towards nuanced, mood-enhancing hues that balance optimism with calmness and natural connection. While butter yellow remains valued, these richer or more textured options are increasingly complementing or replacing it.
Butter yellow has been popular in various sectors, including clothing, accessories, paint colours, and home decor. Many celebrities, too, have embraced butter yellow in their own homes.
However, some designers are suggesting alternatives. Sarah Trop proposes considering warm neutrals with a pink undertone as a versatile alternative to butter yellow. Light Periwinkle, as suggested by interior designer Amy Konarzycki, is another contender, often seen in iridescent objects such as the inside of shells.
Benjamin Moore's Windmill Wings is an example of the elegance of light periwinkle, which pairs well with shades of white, grey, and bleached woods. A lumbar-style cobalt blue throw pillow can also dramatically enhance a room's design.
As we head into the colder months, maroon and burgundy are expected to steal the spotlight, according to designer Ashley Stark. Meanwhile, Cobalt blue, a vivid shade, has the potential to dethrone butter yellow, reading as a jewel tone but with more edge.
When used thoughtfully, butter yellow brings softness and warmth without tipping into overly sweet. Farrow & Ball's Eating Room Red is a rich, inviting colour similar to butter yellow, while Brigette Romanek's ottoman in a deep red colour is part of her designer-approved collection for Crate & Barrel.
A cozy merino wool throw blanket is available in a bright shade of blue, and a portable blue-colored lamp promises up to 96 hours of light from one charge. Warm neutrals, such as light beige, taupe, or cream, are a timeless alternative to butter yellow.
Designer Elizabeth Vergara believes that butter yellow had its moment and is starting to feel overdone. Benjamin Moore's Baby Fawn and Featherstone are warm, muted, and elegant alternatives to butter yellow.
In conclusion, while butter yellow continues to hold a special place in interior design, the trend is moving towards deeper, more textured shades that offer a contemporary twist on traditional warmth.
- Designer Sarah Trop suggests considering warm neutrals with a pink undertone as a versatile alternative to butter yellow.
- Light Periwinkle, as proposed by interior designer Amy Konarzycki, is another contender, often seen in iridescent objects such as the inside of shells.
- Cobalt blue, a vivid shade, has the potential to dethrone butter yellow, reading as a jewel tone but with more edge.
- Warm neutrals, such as light beige, taupe, or cream, are a timeless alternative to butter yellow, providing a classic look without losing the soft warmth.
