People Who Paint Their Homes These Two Colors Tend to Be Happiest

Yellow, in particular, is starting to remerge as a way to liven up people’s kitchens to the point that Masterbrand Cabinets has predicted it will be a popular color in the years to come. Rising interest in the shade “shows a shift in consumer mentality,” says Stephanie Pierce, director of design and trends. “After the recession, we took color out of kitchens. Everyone wanted white, neutral spaces and were concerned about another crash and resale value, so they wanted to play it safe.”

Times have changed, especially nearly two years into the pandemic. “People are more rooted in their homes and feel more confident putting their individuality on display,” she added.

When it comes to incorporating yellow or purple in your home, Pierce recommends going a little less saturated than what you initially gravitate toward, especially if you’re thinking of making a bigger commitment, like installing new cabinetry. “The intensity [of a brighter shade] can be taxing,” she explains.

If you’re going yellow in a kitchen, opt for a shade with gray undertones, Pierce says, which can be a bit duskier and work with a variety of finishes. Similarly, in other rooms, Modsy’s vice president of design and style historian, Alessandra Wood, suggests going for a darker, “chalky” tone, like mustard.

As for purple, darker plums can create a warm, inviting vibe, while an eggplant shade with gray undertones can make a space feel more relaxed (without going to the tried-and-true greiges or blues).

The bottom line: Go with what makes you happy, especially if you’re not planning on selling your home in the next two or three years.