Sofa orange color


Color trend alert: Orange sofas are popping up everywhere

(Image credit: Soho Home )

By Jo Bailey

last updated

If asked to choose a color that evokes optimism, we're pretty sure that orange would be near - if not at - the top of your list. From rust and terracotta to tangerine and marigold, the entire spectrum of this jolly hue evokes a cheerfulness that we all need right now. 

When looking at previous interior design trends, it's fair to say that orange isn't exactly having its debut moment in the spotlight. You only have to look 1970s interior schemes to see this sunny shade adorning countless retro spaces. That said, the popularity of decorating with orange is set to rise again in 2022.  

When thinking about your living room ideas, choosing a sofa will likely be one of the largest investments so it's worth considering what you want out of your sofas - will it be the star of the show or a piece that blends in. In recent years, we've noticed an influx of sofas offered in varying shades of orange, a great way to introduce the color to your space, without feeling too, erm, Tangoed.

We've pulled together our favorite living room sofa ideas from the designers who are offering this happy hue to your living rooms. 

1. Think about complementary color combinations

(Image credit: Heal's)

'We are finding that the majority of people have become much more experimental in their design choices,' says Sabina Miller, Head Buyer at Heal’s. The homeware company recently launched the Devon 2-Seater sofa , $3,433.01/£2,499, offered to its customers in a zingy orange hue. 

When thinking about how to work orange into your scheme, Sabina recommends referring to the color wheel, 'blue is a go-to pairing, and deep inky tones will offer a sense of drama. Alternatively, mixing other shades of mustard yellow, soft brown and warm neutrals throughout the room will add depth while complementing a bright orange shade, allowing the sofa to pop as the focal point' she explains.  

As we look ahead to the longer, warmer summer days, Sabina predicts that we can 'expect to see sunny oranges paired with a neutral palette of soft greys and blush nudes, and accentuated by gentle coral shades, coming together to bring a renewed sense of optimism into the home.'

2. Choose orange for an uplifting look

(Image credit: Julian Chichester)

'Earthy warm tones in general picked up pace in 2021 – we’re seeing it in fashion on the catwalk and closer to home in the details such as tiles, home accessories and fabrics.' states Jodie Hopkins, Sales & Marketing Director, Julian Chichester.  

'These colors are warming, reassuring and grounding. We can see why, given the last couple of  years, we are looking to wrap ourselves in cozy yet uplifting environments,' she adds. 

'With the Parrot Sofa , $6,697.06/£4,875, in particular, we wanted to create calm among the intricate mix of materials and textures. By using this beautiful Leivere Mohair on such a statement piece it balanced the overall design of the space.'

As someone with her finger on the style-pulse, we asked Jodie what colors she is seeing coming through for later in the year, she tells us to expect 'rich spice colors, rusty oranges, reds and terracotta earthy tones.'

(Image credit: Arflex, Aram Store)

Daniel Aram, Managing Director at Aram, informs us that the Marenco sofa , from $8,098.29/£5,895, by Mario Marenco for Arflex, is a recent addition to the Aram, yet was actually designed in 1970. 

He says 'the velvet upholstery, available in dark orange and other interesting colors, highlights the curved form which makes a standout piece in any home.' Adding, 'deep shades of orange have been used in our color range for years with vivid red a constant favorite in the classic Lota sofa by Eileen Gray.' 

When thinking about how to introduce bold color into a scheme, he advises 'when used on strong silhouettes orange looks fresh in modern living rooms as well as complementing more traditional living room settings.

4. Pair bright colors against neutral tones

(Image credit: Soho Home)

‘A burnt orange sofa is a bold statement piece that will instantly add warmth to a neutral living room,' says Candy Murray, Interior Style Manager, Soho Home. 

Candy suggest that murky shades of orange 'perfectly complements natural timbers and stone finishes.’ Here, Soho Home has styled its Ashford 3-Seater sofa, $4526.52/£3,295 (shown), in a neutral setting against a busy accent wall of art and interesting trinkets, which helps the sofa sing without entirely stealing the show. 

5. Embrace curves for the ultimate modern look

(Image credit: Sedilia)

Sedilia describes its Roll Top sofa , $14204.63/£10,340 (ex fabric), as 'combining tactile curves with strong fluid lines, embodying the recognizably reductive Sedilia aesthetic.' 

This modern sofa design has been created for both comfort and style – the ultimate piece for cocooning living room corner. The terracotta orange fabric that it's been upholstered in helps to make this design stand out from the crowd, whilst still feeling incredibly luxe. 

6. Inject some energy into your interiors 

(Image credit: Popus)

'Orange inspires many things,' says Fanny & Yannick Gicquel, Designers & Founders, Popus Editions.

They describe the color orange and its symbolism as 'synonymous with good communication and energy. Stimulating for the senses and the intellect. This sparkling and dynamic feeling, tinted with joy and optimism, is brought into the house.' 

'Orange can easily be combined with its complementary color which is blue, purple (or cyan). It also goes perfectly with other warm colors, such as red and yellow. Of course, since black and white go with everything, you can match them with no problem.'

The firms Lena sofa , $3040.14/£2,215.45, has a wonderfully retro feel to it. When asked what we can expect from Popus in 2022, Fanny & Yannick told us that they 'will focus on more oranges to develop the 70’s inspiration mixed to cozy atmospheres. '

Jo Bailey has been Deputy Editor of Homes & Gardens since late 2021, overseeing all features for the print edition. Previously, she worked as the News & Shopping Editor across H&G and Livingetc - one of Future Plc's sister brands - this is where she learnt to discover the best news stories, latest trends and honed her understanding of Homes and Gardens' over 100-year-old brand.

Before joining Future Plc, she worked as an interior stylist for over ten years, specialising in commercial photo shoots for luxury clients such as; Design Centre Chelsea Harbour, The Romo Group, Christopher Farr Cloth and Heal's. She has worked closely with Homes & Gardens and Livingetc for over a decade, having styled and produced editorial shoots and events for both titles over the years. 

45 Refined Orange Sofas For A Bold Color Statement

Orange is the new black! It’s a warm color that feels boho and 70s and symbolizes joy and energy, perhaps that’s why this color is so popular right now, though it’s not among the colors of the year. Rocking something orange in decor is a cool idea to add a touch of a non-typical color and make your space more welcoming at the same time. An orange sofa is a nice solution for many living rooms, and today I’d like to take a closer look at the ways to integrate it into interiors.

What Are The Coolest Shades Of Orange Sofas?

The coolest shades are burnt orange and rust that look very refined and beautiful and will match many colors and surroundings. Bright orange is also a good idea: it looks more modern and it can match modern and contemporary spaces. Other orange shades are also welcome, choose what you like and what matches your living room!

a beautiful mid-century modern living room with floating shelves, an orange sofa, grey chairs, a low table and a geometric pendant lamp

a boho living room with a black leather sofa, an orange loveseat, a low table and potted cacti feels warm and cool

a boho living room with a floral tapestry, an orange sofa, a round table and a side table plus candle holders and a boho rug

a boho living room with an orange sectional, a low table, a jute ottoman and a rug, a woven pendant lamp and potted plants

a boho living room with an orange sofa, potted plants, a macrame hanging, a small workspace in the corner is amazing

a boho living room with an orange velvet sofa as a centerpiece, potted plants and rattan and leather furniture, boho rugs

a bold living room with a botanical print wall, an orange sectional, a bold artwork and some plants and blooms

a bold living room with a rust-colored sectional and a bright gallery wall plus statement lamps

a bright living room with an orange sofa, a round table, a bold artwork and blooming branches arranged for decor

a charming living room with a bold burnt orange sofa, a teal chair and matching pillows plus a lovely gallery wall

What Styles Can An Orange Sofa Match?

An orange sofa can be easily and harmoniously incorporated into many spaces: boho, farmhouse, Scandinavian, contemporary, mid-century modern, industrial and others. In most of interiors it will look very cohesive and harmonious and will add a warm touch of color, even if you take a boho chic or vintage space – just keep an eye on the design of your sofa.

a chic living room with navy walls, a rust-colored sofa, a gallery wall , a floor lamp and low table with tiles is wow

a colorful eclectic living room with a fireplace, lilac chairs, an orange sofa, Moroccan furniture, a rug and poufs is bold

a contemporary living room with an orange sectiona and navy pillows, potted plants and round tables is very welcoming

a gorgeous eclectic living room with a rust-colored sofa and a matching chair, a round table, a pretty gallery wall and a floor lamp

a lovely boho living room with an orange leather sofa, a wooden bead rug and a geo table, a monochromatic gallery wall

a lovely living room with a rust-colored sectional, a low table, floating shelves and potted plants here and there

a maximalist living room with a colorful gallery wlal, a rust-colored vintage sofa, a round table and potted plants

a maximalist living room with a pink accent wall, an orange sofa with colorful pillows, neutral furniture and bold textiles plus colorful curtains

a mid-century boho living room done in neutrals, with an orange sofa and a black leather chair plus a statement cactus and artworks

a mid-century modern living room with an orange sofa, hexagon shelves, a low table and colorful pillows is welcoming

a mid-century modern space with a large rust-colored sectional, a low wooden table and a blue pouf plus a whimsy gallery wall

a minimalist living room with an orange velvet sofa, a low table and a leather chair plus potted plants and an abstract artwork

a modern living room done in neutrals, with a rust-colored sectional, a low round table and a mid-century modern chandelier to light up the space

a modern living room with an orange sofa, a low acrylic table, a desk and a leather chair plus a crystal chandelier

a modern living room with an orange sofa, a pendant lamp, graphic pillows, some coffee tables and lovely artworks

a moody living room with a faux fireplace, artworks, prints and candles, a rust-colored sofa and a pretty gallery wall

a moody living room with purple paneled walls, an orange sofa, orange floor lamps, a gold hammered table and statement plants

How To Make A Statement With An Orange Sofa?

The easiest idea is to rock an orange sofa in a neutral or moody interior, in the first case you’ll get a serene and neutral room with a bold color accent, and in the second case you’ll receive a dark room with a single color statement – your sofa. Of course, you may also make a statement with your sofa in a bright room, just don’t place too many colorful items around your sofa or make sure that the color you’ve chosen is very intense. Voila!

a neutral double height ceiling space, with an orange sofa, a duo of tables and a dining zone by the window

a pretty neutral living room in boho style, with a rust-colored sofa, a low table and a fur stool, printed textiles is very welcoming

a quirky living room with a black paneled wall, an orange sofa, a mini hearth and a mirror, a whimsy gallery wall and a low table

a refined living room in neutrals, with a burnt orange sofa and a chair, a round leather ottoman, a rattan sideboard

a refined living room with a niche with built-in shelves, a rust-colored sofa, a black and white artwork and dried blooms

a refined living room with a rust-colored sofa, a duo of tables, a creamy chair, a polished floor lamp is amazing

a refined modern living room with 70s vibs, a rust-colored IKEA sofa, wooden furniture and potted plants plus artworks

a serene Scandinavian living room with neutral furniture, a chic gallery wall and an orange leather sofa with boho pillows is amazing

a sophisticated living room with an orange sofa, a pink chair, a quirky table and a pillow plus a jug is a catchy space

a sophisticated living room with navy walls, a rust-colored velvet sofa, a low polished table, built-in shelves

a vivacious living room with niches with built-in shelves, an orange sofa, bold textiles and potted plants for a maximalist feel

a welcoming 70s inspired living room with a rust-colored sofa, rattan, wooden and leather furniture, a black chandelier and a statement artwork

a whimsical living room with a bold gallery wall, a white tufted sofa, an orange sofa, a glass table and a shabby chic cabinet

a whimsical living room with a quirky rust-colored sofa and an ottoman, a round table and a bold artwork

a whimsical space with a rust-colroed sectional, a quirky table, potted plants and a lovely artwork is wow

a whimsy living room with an orange loveseat, a bold abstract artwork, a floor lamp and a geometric rug and a pouf

an eclectic living room with a burnt orange sofa, a low table and pretty tassel cushions and a table lamp

an industrial living room with rough walls, a refined orange tufted sofa, a low glass table and floor lamps

Orange color in the interior

“He looks like a person who is convinced of his own strength and therefore evokes a feeling of exceptional health. This color sounds like a medium-sized church bell calling for prayer “Angelus”, or like a strong viola voice, like an alto violin singing largo,” was how Wassily Kandinsky described the orange color.

This strong and emotional color means the pursuit of fame, steadfastness, and adventure. Orange is associated with bright sunlight, cheerfulness and out-of-the-box thinking. We tell you how best to use an invigorating shade in the interior, and why orange furniture is a great solution for a cold climate. nine0003

In the photo: sofa with high back Porada Gerarde , armchairs Desiree Wing . Apricot and copper-brick are common colors for decorating a living room. They create an atmosphere of comfort and hospitality.

The name of the color is borrowed from the old French word "orange" - orange, in turn derived from the Italian "arancia". Despite the popularity of the color, its name has entered European languages ​​recently: the first recorded mention in English sources refers to 1502, in description of the clothes bought for Princess Margaret Tudor.

Pictured: Sofa andTradition Mayor Sofa . Even one piece of orange furniture can create a joyful mood in a room. In the case of this Moscow apartment, the photo shows an orange sofa.

The invigorating effect of orange shades on the psyche has long been known. In ancient Greece and Egypt, healers insisted herbal decoctions on special orange stones to raise the tone and get rid of apathy. Today, the positive effects of orange blossom continue to be used when working with depressive conditions. Studies claim that it helps in dealing with conflicting personalities and helps to redirect aggression in a constructive direction. Orange color in psychology is considered to be the color of creativity and enthusiasm. For interiors, muted tones are more often chosen: ocher, terracotta, salmon, bronze. Bold decorators will surely like bright ones: tangerine, amber and coral . It is worth remembering that an excess of orange can lead to tension and irritation. Neon orange can be tiring, so its use should be limited.

In the photo: armchair Alberta . The use of pastel shades of orange in the interior is recommended for people prone to fatigue and lethargy.

For large surfaces, choose a less energetic color, smoothed out with other tones, and use pure orange for accentuation :

In the photo: sofa Alberta , armchair Desiree . Orange objects immediately attract the eye. A great option when you want to highlight one or more objects in the apartment.

Most often, orange can be found in such interior styles as retro (sixties style), country, minimalism (including Japanese), ethnic style (boho), art deco , avant-garde, pop art.

In the photo: vase Moon and bedside tables from the brand Kartell . This gamma is associated with warmth, joy, happiness. The tangerine tone brings a sense of celebration to everyday life and sets you up for positive.

Interestingly, the use of orange as a symbol is common throughout the world. Orange acquired the most significant significance, perhaps, in the Netherlands, becoming the national color. The story goes back to the Middle Ages, when orange was the official color of the Principality of Orange, whose owners later became the kings of the Netherlands. In this honor, the uniform of the Dutch football players is also orange. nine0054

In the photo: wallpaper Wall&Deco .

Orange and blue are complementary colors that can become friendly neighbors and create a harmonious combination. Better to use warm shades of blue:

In the photo: living room from Montbel .

If violet is regarded as related to blue, then this pair is a softer version of the first combination. In this tandem, you can see sophistication and exoticism. Consider pairing with violet, amethyst, purple, red-violet, eggplant:

In the photo: upholstered furniture Swan .

In the photo: puffs from Altamoda .

In the photo: furniture Bross .

If several objects of different colors are placed in the same room, then the orange ones will seem closer than the rest :

In the photo: furniture in the style of the 60s from Enrico Pellizzoni . Orange objects are perceived by the human brain as an accent.

Use orange for interiors with north-facing windows. Where it is dark and cool, orange can make up for the lack of sun. nine0008 If you look at its tones for a long time, the air temperature will be perceived as several degrees higher than it really is.

Pictured: designer armchair Frag Parentesi . Orange deservedly bears the title of the warmest shade in the color spectrum, because it does not have cold tones.

In the photo: elegant armchair Gamma Giselle . The gray tint dampens the brightness of the orange. The combination of gray and orange is universal in terms of the impact on the psyche - both energetic and calm people will feel comfortable in such interiors. nine0003

Orange promotes the appearance of the right attitude to work, increases productivity and the desire for logical thinking, and also increases concentration.

In the photo: bright chairs from Bross .

Orange will be a good match for beige, lead, graphite. Light tones soothe it, dark ones add "scandalism", medium ones muffle it.

In the photo: designer sofa Alivar Cartesiano .

Orange and brown make an attractive pair. Take for a combination of chocolate, chestnut and coffee tones:

In the photo: sofas Domingo Salotti .

Against the background of black, orange begins to “pulsate”. This combination is used for avant-garde interiors, public spaces...

In the photo: interior Altamoda .

The meaning of orange - self-discovery, adventure, easy communication - makes it suitable for decorating living rooms and dining rooms:

Photo: armchairs Baxter , armchair Ditre Italia Jen giraffe in love. This tone with the original name is the result of mixing red and light brown shades.

In the photo: armchairs Frag .

Orange is very popular children . It keeps the child in a cheerful state, which contributes to his development and health:

In the photo: children's furniture Batistella . Orange on a white background creates an association with the sun.

In the photo: details of the nursery Batistella . nine0003

It can be called a touch of fertility, by analogy with citrus fruits, which bring a rich harvest. Until now, in France, a wreath of orange flowers is put on the bride's head in the hope of a rapid increase in the family.

Pictured: Batistella . The yellow-orange color is perfect for a child's room. Both shades will contribute to the development of the child and support a positive attitude.

Orange is related to children's mobility, curiosity, daydreaming:

Pictured: children's Tumidei Comp. 105 . A favorable effect of orange on anemia has been noticed, since the number of red blood cells in the blood after color therapy increases.

If painting the walls orange in your living room is too bold for you, try starting in the bathroom. Bright walls will bring more joy on a winter morning than plain white tiles. Roberto Palomba and Ludovica Palomba have created a whole collection of bathroom furniture and fixtures in a cheerful shade for the Kartell brand. Furniture and accessories are made of Kartell branded material - transparent polycarbonate. nine0003

“These pieces will give you a great opportunity to express yourself,” say the designers. “We want every trip to the bathroom to turn into an exciting creative process.”

In the photo: bathroom from Kartell . In the morning, orange speeds up metabolism, helps you stay alert and energetic, and also increases the number of heart muscle contractions.

In the photo: armchair Moroso Mafalda . In orange interiors, the decor of flowers and fruits is very harmonious. Perfectly combined with orange wickerwork. nine0003

Orange color is very popular in the East. This is the color of the sun, fire, spices, juicy fruits. It is the color of the unification of the sexes (red is masculine and yellow is feminine). It is also the color of spiritual enlightenment. In Buddhism, it is a symbol of humility. It is believed that thanks to this tone it is much easier to give up temptations, pacify vices and passions.

In the photo: bright sofa Moroso . Combination of orange with warm green.

Want to visually enlarge the space and add a sense of airiness? Highlight one wall with color, and cover the rest with neutral light paint - the ceiling will appear higher. nine0008

Pictured: chairs Moroso against an accent wall. Orange goes well with red. Hot, fiery combinations. Use such tones of red as scarlet, cinnabar, terracotta, wine.

Orange is “finished” with its tones: lighter or darker. This creates volume: a play of light and shadow.

In the photo: armchairs from the factory Moroso . The palette includes warm shades, which is what characterizes the positive psychotherapeutic effect. nine0003

In the photo: comfortable armchairs and poufs from Paola Lenti .

In the photo: outdoor furniture Varaschin .

Pictured: Stylish Italian outdoor furniture Roda .

The combination of orange in the interior | Articles about furniture and interior

Orange is a symbol of positivity, joy and good mood. It gives energy and vivacity, adjusts in the right way. Shades are widely used in various styles, but, most importantly, keep a balance and choose such an application for it so that the combination of orange in the interior looks harmonious and unbanal. nine0003

Orange interior

Even experienced designers do not always take on the implementation of interiors with an orange palette, as it can be moody and not always show its true nature. If everything is planned and visualized in advance, even the most ordinary room can be made special.

Recommendations for use

  • Objects of this color take all the attention and play the role of the main accents. Therefore, orange is used to highlight certain things, furniture, areas. nine0220
  • It is not recommended to use the palette in rooms with south-facing windows. In the summer, it will be hot anyway, and such bright colors will only enhance the thermal effect.
  • The interior should be dominated by only two colors or their shades, since orange itself is rich and full.
  • When planning the design of a small room, preference should be given to light shades of orange. Dark tones will press, visually making the space even more limited. nine0220

Such paints are suitable for cheerful, positive, creative people who are highly emotional. In addition, children love it very much.

Room interior

Kitchen

Preference in the interior of the kitchen should be given to orange, peach and other "juicy" shades, which perfectly excite the appetite. They will harmoniously look in the backsplash or countertops of spacious kitchens. It is not recommended to use color for facades, as irritability and headache may appear. nine0003

If you choose calm shades for the facades, you can complement them with translucent frosted glass inserts, modern fittings in the headset, LED strips with soft white backlighting. Orange textiles are used for accents, such as tablecloths, towels, potholders, table napkins, curtains.

Living room

In the interior of the living room, warm, “autumn” colors are used, which will add home comfort and softness. Wall decoration can be plain or patterned; decorative elements or matching paintings, framed photographs will emphasize the overall concept. The palette goes well with wood, so it is recommended to use laminate, parquet or natural wood for the floor. nine0003

Furniture with orange upholstery will look juicy and unusual. In this case, the rest of the decoration should be neutral and calm, the main focus will be on the sofa and armchairs. If the ceiling height allows, glossy orange stretch films can be used.

Bedroom

You should not experiment here, as the bedroom is designed for relaxation and sleep. Therefore, the colors should be calmer, softer, go well with light curtains, bed linen. The perfect solution would be muted tones, emphasized by the correct arrangement of lighting fixtures. nine0003

Child

Sunny, bright, positive orange color is ideal for a child's room. It can be used for the entire room, or you can use it to highlight the playing area. Such a decision will give a surge of joy and strength. In addition, it is perfectly diluted with other shades and is used for finishing walls, floors, furniture or decor items.

Orange mixed with other colors

  1. Grey. Stylish, but rather discreet combination. This color is considered basic and neutral, used in all styles, so it softens too bright tones, making them soft and calm. For modern high-tech interiors and minimalism, the combination of orange + gray + white is in demand. nine0220
  2. Beige. All its shades are perfectly combined with orange. Coffee, chocolate, cream will give a feeling of comfort, and a bright shade will give the desired dynamics.
  3. Yellow. One of the most cheerful and fresh combinations. Such interiors are often compared to carefree childhood and sunny summers. An excellent choice for decorating a nursery.
  4. Blue. A popular combination in the Mediterranean style, as it demonstrates the unity of the sea and the sun. Orange works well in carrot and orange shades. In the blue palette, the advantage should be given to azure, turquoise. Duet allows you to play with textures. nine0220
  5. Black. The result is a luxuriously brutal combination, which is often implemented in the design of bedrooms. Requires the addition of neutral decor elements. Wall and ceiling decoration should be light.
  6. White. This unique color will take on some of the warmth and energy, soften the vigor of orange. At the same time, it is white that should become the background, while sunny colors will manifest themselves in accessories.

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