As summer approaches, we can almost feel the warmth of the sun on our skin. Sunshine isn’t always a guarantee in London, so we like to add a touch of yellow to brighten up our schemes.
In room 116 at Covent Garden Hotel, we lined the walls with my ‘Willow’ fabric for Christopher Farr Cloth in Lemon (one of the most popular colourways) to amplify the light and add depth to the walls.
This creates a striking contrast with the dark bespoke headboard, featuring appliquéd falling leaves in a golden yellow, made from vintage kimonos. This tactile detailing reflects the bold yellow on the curtains and walls, tying the whole scheme together.
In the library at Number Sixteen, zesty pops of yellow on the furniture, wallpaper and upholstery make the room feel summery and bright.
Yellow can also be used to create a romantic scheme. In room 417 at Covent Garden Hotel, we covered the traditional corona in a Lee Jofa floral fabric on the outer side, contrasted with a soft yellow print by Tissus d’Helene. These pastel tones are combined with a pale pink on the walls by Farrow and Ball, creating a romantic mood in this classic setting.
Where a bright yellow might be too bold, an elegant mustard can create a sophisticated feel. In the Two Bedroom Suffolk Suite at Haymarket Hotel, we kept the contrast low by using the soft white mirrors and an antique breakfront chest of drawers. The hanging art is made with slivers of cut sponges in similar tones, which keep the room in perfect balance.
For a cooler, but no less contemporary feel, we used my ‘Ozone’ fabric for Christopher Farr Cloth in the Smoke colourway on the walls of the library at Ham Yard Hotel. The yellow undertone adds a hint of vitality in this traditional English setting, making it a glorious space to enjoy a book.
