Tangerine Dream: The Color of 2012

2012 is looking bright – at least in the eyes of color authority Pantone, which named Tangerine Tango its color of the year.

“Sophisticated but at the same time dramatic and seductive, Tangerine Tango is an orange with a lot of depth to it,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “Reminiscent of the radiant shadings of a sunset, Tangerine Tango marries the vivaciousness and adrenaline rush of red with the friendliness and warmth of yellow to form a high-visibility, magnetic hue that emanates heat and energy.”

One of the simplest ways to bring tangerine into a room is with a single, solid-hue accent wall – a coat of paint and your environment’s instantly warmer. Amp it up even further with tonal modern furniture like the Istikbal Kubo Rainbow Orange Microfiber Sectional Sofa, with convenient hidden storage, or the high-contrast orange-and-white Way Basics Modular 6 Cube Bookcase.

Looking for something less intense? Bring in one or two vivid accents: The 1960s-inspired Ball Chair or Euro Style Julia Teardrop Side Table are majorly mod against navy blue, brown, and gray in the living room.

The Bellini Imports Adjustable Alfa Bar Stool adds modern flair to white, green, and soft blue kitchens.

Vintage art prints and contemporary pieces from artist Jenn Ski provide pop in bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways – plus, they’re a cinch to hang.

The Microsuede Tangerine Squares Decorative Pillow is even easier to apply – toss a couple on the nearest sofa or lounge chair, and you’re colorfully current.