If you've kept up with design trends this year, you've likely seen one color dominate conversations time and time again: Butter yellow.
From the runway to celebrity kitchen cabinets, barely a day goes by without some exposure to this beautiful hue. As we look toward the latter end of the year, however, I can't help but wonder what tone could take its place. I believe I may have found the answer in Emilia Clarke's farmhouse-style kitchen.
In her home, Emilia has decorated with yellow in a way that looks even bolder than what we've become accustomed to. Butter yellow offers a subtle way to use this hue, but Emilia's cabinets are notably more vibrant than their trending counterpart.
They're a brave twist on butter, but despite their boldness, they don't overpower her kitchen. In keeping the rest of her walls a soft neutral, the cabinets have space to breathe while making the desired statement: It's a look I hope to see everywhere in the year ahead, as we crave a fun twist on 2025's most talked-about tone.
Shop the yellow kitchen edit
Elevate your kitchen shelf with this surprisingly versatile vase, perfectly sized for fresh or dried flowers, such as roses, and, of course, sunflowers. Featuring a smooth frosted finish and modern glaze, it’s the accent you'll want for the rest of the year and beyond.
Bring café charm to your breakfast nook or countertop with this vintage-inspired stoneware collection. It has hand-painted details and bold pops of yellow, each piece bringing a touch of joy to everyday moments.
Add a touch of vintage charm with the Amaroso bolster pillow. Featuring subtle stripes and ruffled ends, it brings soft texture and pattern to any kitchen accent chair or dining nook. It's made from breathable linen for a crisp, comfortable feel that will always feel quietly luxurious.
While butter yellow kitchens can be categorized as a 'new neutral,' brighter tones make more of a statement. However, going bold has its benefits, as design expert David Gray at Corston Architectural Detail explains.
'Yellow is psychologically associated with sunshine, happiness, and energy, making it perfect for the kitchen, where families often gather. It can also brighten darker spaces and create the illusion of warmth in rooms that lack natural light. Soft buttery tones evoke nostalgia and comfort, while bolder saffron or mustard shades lend a modern, punchy edge,' he says.
Experimenting with bright yellow on your kitchen cabinets is the most impactful way to get the look. However, you can start with smaller, less obvious (lower) parts of your cabinets or accent pieces in a similar tone.
'Consider a yellow island, lower cabinetry, or a statement backsplash to create a focal point without overwhelming the space. Yellow also pairs beautifully with natural wood, matte black, or deep navy for contrast and balance,' David says. 'If you’re color shy, use yellow through accessories, such as bar stools, dishware, or pendant lighting, to test the waters without a full commitment.'
Plus, as Emilia's kitchen reminds us, balance is key. 'Pair yellow with neutrals like white, grey, or soft green to tone it down,' he adds. 'Also, consider your materials. Glossy finishes will reflect more light, while matte yellows feel earthy and grounded.'
Will you experiment with a brighter yellow in the near future? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
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