"Yellow radiates pure warmth and energy like no other color," said Eileen McComb, director of communications for Benjamin Moore. "A luminous tone like Benjamin Moore's St. Elmo's Fire," she added, "projects a sophisticated, intimate personality and is suggestive of freshness. We chose it because it signals a spirit of optimism as the new year and new beginnings of political, social and cultural landscape unfold."
However, she counsels, as with all colors, make sure the tone, intensity and vibrancy are exactly what you seek. "Not all yellows are created equal, and selecting the right one requires care. It must work well with its neighboring colors. In fact, it's that hint of green in St. Elmos's Fire that is the key to its compatibility with other hues, creating excitement and energy."
In proposing St. Elmo's Fire as a top interior paint color choice for 2009, the Benjamin Moore team also has suggested other possible--and very livable--companion hues from the spectrum. A fuchsia such as
Peony 2079-30 (see below), for instance, can instantly enliven a space when paired with the yellow. When partnered with deep browns or blacks, like
Stone Brown 2112-30 (below) or
Ebony King 2132-20, a
room can take on a richer, more complex ambiance. One of the cheeriest combinations recommended is St. Elmo's Fire with
Wales Green 2133-40 (at left).
"Once upon a time, yellow was thought to be for kitchens only," said McComb, but that's not true anymore. While it's still an ideal choice for that space, it now is equally acceptable to apply it anywhere and everywhere throughout the home."
In fact, according to McComb, whether for the transition year of 2009 or anytime, yellow is a teriffic transition color that helps bridge between rooms when it's used in entries, hallways, stairwells and other connector spaces. It's effective, as well, for adding a punch of color on a wall when you want to freshen up a look but have neither the time or the budget to paint an entire room.
Visit Hirshfield's to view the new Benjamin Moore Colors of Optimism. We can help you choose the right color to give your home a sun-kissed New Year facelift.
And if you need a little extra help with color, may we recommend an in-home visit from one of Hirshfield's Color Consultants.
