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Persimmon Granted Make no apologies - think bold, confident and bright when it comes to heating up the great outdoors  Orange thumb: Pair bold planters with low-maintenance plants for an attention-getting combo. Image courtesy of Pad Outdoor Bright and warm, happy and inviting, the color orange is too big to be contained indoors. Associated with many of nature's most stunning displays, from setting suns to blooming wildflowers, the cheerful hue can add life to any outdoor living space. With spring fashion lines by Nanette Lepore, Maria Pinto, Pamella Roland and David Rodriguez all naming shades of orange as their signature color for 2010, it's clear the hue isn't just fun and games. When used tastefully, it can add a high-fashion sophistication to an outdoor designs. "For spring 2010, we are seeing a range of orange that includes some of the brightest tones in the orange family," says Laurie Pressman, vice president of fashion, home and interiors at international color authority Pantone, Inc., Carlstadt, N.J. "These hot and luminous shades are thought of as gregarious, fun-loving and high energy." Interior designer Callie Jenschke, co-owner of Scout Designs NYC, says that because orange is already so pervasive in nature, it pairs well with the colors of the outdoors. "It can be found in sunsets, in changing fall leaves and in the skins of fruits and vegetables," she says. "Orange is perfect for any outdoor space since it pairs nicely with grass green and sky blue." Pantone's executive director, Leatrice Eiseman, agrees. "Putting orange against a green background makes it seem even more vivid and friendly," she says. "The way to have real impact with orange is to go to the opposite side of the color wheel - colors that are in the blue and purple family, as well as the greens." The boldness of orange intimidates some. "Orange is not a shrinking violet. Its intensity scares people," Jenschke says. "But its warmth makes it such a great complement to any space." If you're timid about the tint, Eiseman suggests starting small and subtle with a striped umbrella. Even the most color-shy homeowner can give their garden a lively pop with an orange-hued plant. "Flowers instantly add a touch of whimsicality and friendliness," Eiseman says. She loves gerbera daisies and marigolds; other bright blooms include canna lilies, zinnias and poppies. Nicki Clendening, who co-owns Scout Designs with Jenschke, notes that while orange is typically viewed as a loud color, different shades can feel more refined. "Bright orange is not very sophisticated when used in large amounts, but an orange with an umber tone, such as a persimmon or Tuscan-inspired hue, completely changes the color and can be used to create a wonderfully warm space," she says. And what better space to warm up than a deck or patio, to complement the summer sun? "Orange is synonymous with energy. To bring that excitement to the outdoors, think about creating a great outdoor entertaining space," Jenschke says. She suggests incorporating the color as accents, with outdoor plates, glassware, pillows, rugs and lanterns. For larger outdoor furniture and other accent shades, try vivid complementary shades to maximize intensity. Bring in neutrals to soften the look. "Orange looks sophisticated and fresh when paired with whites and ivories, and dashing when paired with its complement, deep purple," Jenschke says. Whether on your table or in your garden, orange will feel right at home in an outdoor living space. "Its happy associations make orange a great shade to use outdoors," Pressman says. |
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