For years, tangerine has lingered on the fringes of interior design, admired by those who love a bold palette but rarely making its way into mainstream home decor. But times are changing! This lively shade, somewhere between burnt orange and coral, has stepped into the spotlight. Designers are embracing its warmth, vibrancy, and ability to bring a space to life.
Incorporating tangerine into a living room might seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can add energy, sophistication, and even a touch of retro charm. Whether you go for a bold feature wall, statement furniture, or subtle accents, there are countless ways to bring tangerine into a home without overwhelming the space.
Why Tangerine?
Tangerine is more than just a trend; it’s a colour that evokes positivity, creativity, and warmth. It sits beautifully between red and yellow, offering the best of both worlds; bold and fiery but with a golden glow that feels welcoming rather than overpowering. Unlike some other strong colours, tangerine pairs surprisingly well with a variety of palettes, from earthy neutrals to cool greys and deep blues. It also brings a touch of playfulness, making it an excellent choice for a living room where warmth and comfort are key.
Starting Small with Accents and Accessories
For those not quite ready to commit to a tangerine feature wall, accessories are the way to go. Cushions, throws, vases, and artwork can introduce the colour in a way that feels stylish rather than overpowering. A few burnt-orange scatter cushions on a neutral sofa, or a bold ceramic vase on a wooden coffee table, can bring just the right pop of colour without feeling excessive.
Layering tangerine with other warm tones like ochre, rust, and terracotta creates a beautifully cohesive look. Alternatively, pairing it with contrasting shades like deep navy, charcoal, or soft sage green adds depth and sophistication.
Wall and Statement Furniture
Feeling braver? A tangerine feature wall could be just the thing to transform a living room. It works particularly well in spaces with plenty of natural light, where its warmth can truly shine. If a full wall feels like too much, consider using the colour in a painted arch, a half-wall, or even behind built-in shelving for a modern, playful touch.
Furniture is another great way to make a statement. A velvet tangerine sofa? Instantly chic. A mid-century modern armchair in burnt orange? Timeless. Even a lacquered coffee table or a bright rug can anchor the room while keeping the space dynamic and inviting.
The Foundation of the Look
The right flooring choice can make or break a tangerine-inspired living room. For a sleek and modern feel, engineered wood flooring in light oak or whitewashed tones provides a fresh contrast, allowing the colour to take centre stage. For something warmer, dark walnut or smoked wood flooring can enhance tangerine’s richness, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
Herringbone or chevron parquet adds a layer of sophistication, complementing the boldness of tangerine with timeless elegance. For those who love the practicality of luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) or laminate, go for warm wood effects or subtle stone finishes to maintain a balanced aesthetic.
Texture and Materials
A colour as vibrant as tangerine thrives in a well-layered space. Think soft velvet cushions, woven jute rugs, and ceramic or glass accessories to add variety and depth. Matte finishes help to ground the brightness, while metallics like brass or aged gold bring a sense of luxury.
Mixing natural textures—like linen, rattan, and reclaimed wood—creates a more relaxed, organic look, preventing the space from feeling too bold or overly styled. A chunky knitted throw in rust tones or a tactile boucle armchair can soften the vibrancy and make the space feel effortlessly put together.
Bringing It All Together
Tangerine works best when it feels natural and integrated rather than forced. The trick is to balance it with grounding elements—neutral walls, natural flooring, and a mix of textures—to create a space that feels bold yet harmonious. Whether it’s a daring tangerine sofa, a splash of colour on the walls, or just a few carefully chosen accessories, this once-overlooked hue is now a stylish, modern choice for a living room with real personality.
So, for those who have ever considered adding a touch of tangerine but weren’t quite sure how—now’s the time. With the right approach, this bold shade can transform any living room into a vibrant, stylish, and effortlessly chic space.
