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For their warmth and brightness, there’s nothing like delicious citrus colors to cheer up a room. Although they are often lauded for their ability to bring a feeling of sunlight into a space, oranges and yellows actually look their best in rooms with decent light. In dim conditions, they tend to gray out a bit. When you use citrus colors, make sure you have adequate lighting to help them shine.

Orange is still popular, especially among creative people. It can be a real energizer and an eye catcher. I love to use it in kitchens and dining rooms where it sparks appetites and conversations.

From C2's pleasantly saturated Sweet Potato, to Sherwin-Williams’ brilliant Marigold, orange has the ability to bring inspiration to a room.

I love Farrow & Ball’s Orangery, with its slightly mustardy hue, and also the brilliant ochre of Benjamin Moore Amber Waves. I recently chose it for the walls of a mudroom, where everyone in that family will enjoy it every day.

Yellows add plenty of cheer to a space, and can convey a sense of whimsy. The most popular yellows this year will be “more golden and less curry,” according to Sherwin-Williams color expert Mark Woodman.

Depending on the shade you choose, yellow can be absolutely dazzling, or it can be as neutral as beige. You can almost never go wrong with the soft Benjamin Moore Windham Cream.

Their Concord Ivory is a cooler, deeper yellow that looks fabulous in a family room, especially if you add red accessories. The Beijing Olympics should boost the popularity of yellows and reds, separately, and in combination.

Yellow is great in a sunroom, amplifying the natural light. And if you use a bright, clear color like California Paints Warm Rays in a cool room, that the room actually feels warmer on a winter day.

Celebrate the pleasing tartness of oranges and lemons on your walls. You’ll appreciate their brilliance all year round.