Orange was a staple in the late 80s and early 90s and was everywhere; from our fashion choices to our interior design, we couldn’t escape this bold, bright color. But 30 years later, orange color schemes are experiencing a revival. Today, decorating with orange is a sophisticated and versatile choice. The new burnt orange that will adorn interiors in 2024 is rich and bright.
Not surprisingly, America’s favorite television star Martha Stewart stayed ahead of color trends with her daring orange three-season room in her former home on Lily Pond Lane.
For a decorating scheme that’s appealing year-round, look no further than the spice and sophistication of burnt orange or terracotta. A bold, fiery color with hints of red and brown, it’s more zesty than earth tones but still offers a smokier, more relaxed aesthetic than lighter hues. Burnt orange adds energy to decorating schemes, conveying a sense of warmth and calm.
To do like Stewart, pair this surprisingly sophisticated choice with teal. It’s one of the many colors that go with orange, and our favorite. “I often pair orange with teal as they go together effortlessly,” says Emma Deterding, founder and creative director of Kelling Designs. “It brings warmth and an uplifting energy, whether you use it on a whole wall of paint or wallpaper.”
Teal is a versatile shade that can be used in contrast with an earthy burnt orange to add depth to your color palette. A tranquil balance of teal and orange will instantly transport you to sandy beaches and summer skies.
Colour consultant Clare Tilbrook agrees: “Orange can look really chic when paired with teal,” she says. “This colour combination works well in a dining room: think orange walls and joinery and calm teal underfoot and on the furniture. Accessories and soft furnishings in a teal tone soften the contrast between the different tones.”
(Photo credit: Gabriel Scott)
Orange can be used as a surprisingly calming backdrop and, in my opinion, is the perfect color for a dining room decorated with decorative antiques and jadeite (a Stewart favorite) and lots of foliage. It looks wonderful in a room with lots of natural light and makes a snappy, vibrant statement.
In my opinion, the home should be filled with bright colors as they add personality to a room. Orange tones are a great choice – they provide an uplifting feeling during the day and can contribute to a cozy, relaxed atmosphere in the evening. This color combination always looks good when properly scaled and balanced.
Shop the look
Martha Stewart collects Fire-King restaurantware, a very popular and increasingly hard-to-find type of jadeite. But if you don’t plan on investing in original jadeite, you can shop for similar—equally beautiful—glassware on Amazon, Target, and Bed, Bath & Beyond. The teal color pairs perfectly with a fiery orange background, similar to Stewart’s.
Martha Stewart Highbrook, handcrafted jadeite glass cake stand
Martha Stewart Jadeite Glass 2-Piece Bowl Set
