Yellow used to have a massive image problem. Even in the Middle Ages, yellow tended to be a warning colour. In some countries it was regarded as the colour of evil and death. In nature, yellow flowers often signal danger. The term yellow journalism is linked with sensationalism. The Italian word for yellow, "giallo", is used to describe the thriller genre of literature in Italy. But there are plenty of positive aspects to yellow too.
Furniture designers have rediscovered the colour in their latest creations. "Yellow is the new pink," says Dutch trend scout Li Edelkoort. Edelkoort believes yellow will play an important role over the coming years, replacing pink as the trend colour in home furnishings. Edelkoort says pink is an expression of the fear of becoming an adult, of taking on responsibility. Pink has been especially popular with people seeking security and a return to old traditions.
Yellow may be a contrast to pink; yet it remains an expression of the same wishes. "Yellow symbolises the sun, represents optimism and is a source of energy. They are exactly what society is seeking now." Designer Sarah Boettger agrees: "Yellow represents light and energy and is extremely versatile. I think it makes a great match with neutral colours and natural materials."
Boettger used yellow in a wall hanging, Dune Carpet, which she created in co-operation with Hanna Emelie Ernsting. "We used yellow in combination with white and a warm grey that varies between bright and deep," says Boettger. "This yellow is not dependent on the time of year and it always emits a constant feeling of warmth." The Milan furniture fair saw yellow present in all its shades and tones. Dutch designer Hella Jongerius is an art director at Vitra and used yellow in her sofa Polder as well as on the classic Charles and Ray Eames aluminium chair.
Knoll International also decided to take a classic design and turn it bright yellow. To mark the centenary of the birth of designer Harry Bertolia, his Side Chair was recreated in a version made from chromed steel and a yellow seat surface. Arper has also discovered yellow. Its modular sofa system Steeve, by French designer Jean-Marie Massaud, has been given a yellow make-over. Ichiro Iwasaki's pouf Pix is now available in a distinctive yellow and Spain's Cosentino Group has brought out an eye-catching kitchen entirely in yellow.
It's very unusual to have so much yellow furnishing on offer - but quite acceptable. "I have gotten used to yellow. It can be a very pleasant colour to have in the home," says Volker Streckel from the Design Post furniture store in Cologne. Streckel believes the latest designs in yellow are much more exciting than their predecessors in grey, black or white.