In our fast-paced, screen-heavy lives, a little dose of sunlight—literal or not—can make a world of difference. Studies show that just a few minutes of morning sun can lift your spirits, regulate your body’s internal clock, and set a positive tone for the day. But what if clouds or city shadows stand in the way? The good news is, you can create your own sunshine indoors—with the help of a very specific hue: yellow.
From the quiet wisdom of the Shakers, who painted their interiors with goldenrod during the long, grey winters, to modern design studios creating joyful objects in cheery hues, yellow has long served as a beacon of warmth, joy, and optimism. This month, our editors rounded up 11 sunny home essentials that invite light and levity into your everyday spaces—no matter the weather outside.
1. Tortuga Forma Double Arc Bookend
Say goodbye to toppling book stacks and hello to sturdy style. This sculptural bookend is not only functional, it’s a little burst of solar energy for your shelves. The enamel finish gleams in a citrusy hue that makes even the most serious literature look a little more cheerful.
2. Block Shop Moonphase Napkins
Set the tone—literally—for your table with these hand block-printed napkins on soft Belgian linen. Their subtle yellow crescent motif adds brightness to daily meals, whether you’re hosting brunch or reheating leftovers.
3. Hay Matin Pendant by Inga Sempé
Designed by French designer Inga Sempé, this accordion-folded pendant lamp is one of our community’s favorite recent finds—and it’s easy to see why. Playful yet refined, the pleated shade glows with a soft yellow warmth, casting a gentle light that recalls early morning rays.
4. Schoolhouse Farbe Alarm Clock in Yellow
Mornings are hard—but this sunny little alarm clock softens the blow. With its retro style and cheerful color, even the most reluctant risers will have something to smile about. It’s a simple joy on your nightstand that encourages you to greet the day with curiosity rather than groans.
5. Filt French Market Tote
Who says utilitarian can’t be uplifting? Woven in France by a company with roots dating back to the 19th century, this netted market tote in lemony yellow adds a pop of joy to errands and farmers’ market strolls. It’s lightweight, practical, and stylish—a triple win.
6. Piglet in Bed Honey Linen Duvet Cover
Imagine slipping into bed and feeling like you’ve just collapsed into a patch of sun-drenched wildflowers. This duvet cover, made from soft, breathable linen in a warm honey shade, captures that feeling exactly. It brings a gentle brightness to your bedroom, all year round.
7. Fine Little Day Crocus Tray
Breakfast in bed? Yes, please. Especially when served on this Swedish-designed tray featuring a hand-drawn crocus pattern. Ceramic artist Kristine Thenman brings spring indoors with a design that’s both artistic and utterly practical.
8. Bed Threads Scalloped Pillowcases
Details matter—and these scalloped pillowcases prove it. With tonal yellow embroidery tracing playful waves around the edges, they’re happiness in pillow form. Layer them with neutrals or go all-in with matching sheets for a cohesive sun-kissed look.
9. A Shaker-Inspired Philosophy
While not an object you can shop for, the Shakers’ philosophy is worth borrowing. Their tradition of painting furniture and window frames in golden tones wasn’t just aesthetic—it was emotional, spiritual even. In darker months, they crafted their own light through mindful color choices. Take this as an invitation to embrace intentionality in your design choices. Sometimes, color is comfort.
10. Color as Therapy
More than just a decorative choice, yellow has been shown in color psychology studies to stimulate the nervous system, boost concentration, and elevate mood. Whether it’s a single lemon-hued cushion or a full-on sunflower accent wall, introducing yellow can have surprisingly deep effects on your well-being.
11. Layering for Impact
Don’t feel the need to go full-on monochrome. The magic of yellow lies in how it interacts with other textures and tones—wood, white linen, soft greys, or bold blues. Use it to highlight, accentuate, or interrupt, creating focal points in your space that lift the eye and the spirit.
A Final Note
In a time where we often search for meaning and peace in cluttered schedules and crowded spaces, sometimes the answer is as simple as a change in hue. A splash of yellow in the right corner, the glow of a golden lamp at twilight, or a touch of citrus linen on your bed—it’s enough to remind you that joy can be invited, even on the cloudiest of days.
So consider this your dose of indoor sunshine. A prescription, if you will, for a brighter, more buoyant home.
