How colours can shift the mood and breathe life into any space

As an interior designer, I know the transformative power of colour. It can shift the mood of a room, evoke emotions, and breathe life into any space. Dulux’s Colour of the Year 2025, TRUE JOY™, a vibrant, warm yellow, is a prime example of how colour can do all this and more.

Embracing Dulux's 2025 colour of the year: TRUE JOY™ 

You may be thinking, “But isn’t autumn around the corner? Isn’t yellow too bright for the season?” I’m here to tell you that True Joy™ can be the perfect addition to your home, no matter the time of year.

Colour is the backbone of any interior design project. It shapes how we feel in a space—calm, energetic, or even reflective. It influences light, makes a room feel larger or more intimate, and ties together different elements like furniture, textiles, and décor. But most importantly, colour sets the mood.

Yellow, in particular, is associated with happiness, optimism, and warmth. It symbolises sunshine and brings an uplifting energy that few other hues can match. For those seeking to inject some life and joy into their homes, especially as the days get shorter and colder, True Joy™ offers a much-needed burst of energy.

Why TRUE JOY™ for Autumn?

While autumn often sees homeowners gravitating toward rich browns, deep reds, and muted greens, True Joy™ offers a delightful contrast. Instead of retreating into dark, cozy spaces, why not embrace the brightness and optimism that yellow brings? This particular shade has a softness to it—a creamy warmth that feels more like the golden glow of afternoon light than a sharp, overpowering yellow. It balances vibrancy with approachability, making it a versatile choice for any room in your home.

Here’s why True Joy™ works even as the leaves begin to fall:

1. It Invites Warmth: True Joy™ captures the essence of sunlight, making it the perfect antidote to the cool autumn chill. A yellow accent wall or even smaller touches like cushions or lamps can make a space feel cozy and inviting, much like a warm cup of tea on a crisp fall morning.
2. Year-Round Versatility: Unlike some colours that feel tied to a particular season, yellow transcends those boundaries. In summer, it feels like sunshine; in autumn, it becomes a golden hue that mirrors the leaves outside. This means True Joy™ is a colour that will feel fresh and appropriate in every season.
3. Energy and Optimism: Autumn, with its shorter days, can sometimes bring about a dip in energy. True Joy™ counters that with its cheerful brightness, keeping your interiors feeling lively and full of potential. It’s perfect for kitchens, living rooms, or even home offices, where an energetic, positive environment is key.
4. Easy to Pair: Another reason to consider True Joy™ is how easily it pairs with other colours. This soft yellow complements warm neutrals, soft greys, and even deeper jewel tones like emerald green or plum. Whether your style is modern, rustic, or eclectic, True Joy™ can be integrated into your space effortlessly.

How to Use TRUE JOY™ in your home?

If you're wondering how to bring this vibrant shade into your home without overwhelming your space, here are some ideas:

• Accent Walls: Painting an accent wall in True Joy™ can immediately brighten a room and draw attention to architectural features. Pair it with neutral shades like off-white or taupe to let the colour stand out without being too overpowering.
• Soft Furnishings: For a more subtle approach, consider adding pillows, throws, or rugs in True Joy™. These elements can be easily swapped out when the seasons change, giving you flexibility to play with colour throughout the year.
• Artwork and Accessories: Bring in True Joy™ through framed art, vases, or ceramics. This is an easy and affordable way to experiment with colour in smaller doses.
• Kitchens and Dining Rooms: The uplifting and energising nature of yellow makes it a great choice for social spaces where people gather. Try adding this colour to your cabinets, chairs, or even small appliances.

A New Season, A New Joy

As we transition into autumn, Dulux’s True Joy™ gives us the opportunity to rethink traditional seasonal palettes. It brings warmth, energy, and optimism—qualities we could all use a little more of as the year winds down. Whether you’re looking for a dramatic change or a subtle shift in mood, this vibrant yellow is a versatile and timeless choice for your interiors.

Remember, colour is one of the most powerful tools in a designer’s toolkit. With True Joy™, you can bring a sense of happiness and sunshine into your home, no matter what the weather is like outside.

So, let’s celebrate the new season by embracing this joyful hue and all the positivity it has to offer!

Belle & Cosy Interior Design: Bringing joyful colour into your home

As Belle & Cosy's Interior Designer, I help homeowners create interiors that tell their story—spaces full of warmth, character, and intention. With an expert eye for colour and a passion for harmonising style with emotion, She guides clients in making bold yet balanced choices, like integrating Dulux’s True Joy™ for a fresh seasonal uplift..

Whether you're looking to energise a room with colour, refresh your space for the new season, or craft a home that feels both elegant and lived-in, Belle & Cosy offers thoughtful, personalised design solutions that reflect who you are and how you live. Let your home shine with joy—whatever the weather.