Mango: Orange for the Rest of Us
On the fence about decorating with orange? Ease into it with mango, a gentler tone that makes rooms no less striking
I've never really made friends with orange. I tried hard when it became the new darling of the design world a decade ago, but we just couldn't find common ground. (Perhaps, had an Hermès box entered the picture, our relationship might have blossomed.)
Now, though, I think I've found a shade I can live with: mango. It has all the warmth and presence of true orange, yet it doesn't shout or overwhelm its surroundings. And while it's subdued, it's still strong enough not to read as peach (a hue with which I definitely will never get along). If, like me, you've been reluctant to explore the orange side of life, make note of these 10 ideas for taking that first step.
Now, though, I think I've found a shade I can live with: mango. It has all the warmth and presence of true orange, yet it doesn't shout or overwhelm its surroundings. And while it's subdued, it's still strong enough not to read as peach (a hue with which I definitely will never get along). If, like me, you've been reluctant to explore the orange side of life, make note of these 10 ideas for taking that first step.
This lovely sitting area represents mango at its best. The upholstered slipper chair commands the setting in an elegant, suave manner, balanced by the peaceful white and gray notes in the space. The artwork picks up just enough of the orange hue to make the look feel coherent.
Teal blue and mango represent a modern interpretation of the classic blue and orange color pairing. Because the orange hue in this space is gentle, and the teal is so strong, the room reads as blue — mango is merely a supporting player.
Here's a similar take on orange and blue, with the proportions reversed. The blue helps to tone down the wall color and keep it from feeling cloying, and creates a sort of inverse focal point.
Small accents are a great way to test out any color you're not sure about committing to. A pair of stools under this console table sparks the quiet scene, and they're a cinch to swap out if you tire of the color. I love that peekaboo band of mango inside the pendant, too, which absolutely makes the room.
If you're ready to take the full plunge into orange, this kitchen represents one way to go there without overdoing it. The mango hue of the cabinetry certainly isn't for shrinking violets, but it's not as loud as tangerine or safety-cone orange would be.
Against the strong patterns and showy accents in this space, the sinuous lamp might have gotten lost if it weren't in such a bold shade. The mango base draws just enough attention to highlight those gorgeous curves.
A mango-hued table and benches not only add a stroke of color to an all-white kitchen, but they also help to pull the gaze toward the stunning view outside. Patios, porches and other outdoor rooms can be perfect spots for road testing bold colors — the natural brightness of the sun and the vivid greens of foliage dilute their impact.
A mango coverlet folded at the end of the bed, paired with a coordinating side chair, pumps up what could have been a bland bedroom.
More:
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Opposites Attract: Orange and Blue
More:
Rhymes With Orange
Opposites Attract: Orange and Blue