Butter yellow is warm, soft, and quietly cheerful. It sits somewhere between cream and true yellow, adding warmth without overpowering a space. But not all butter yellows look or feel the same — undertones, lighting, and surrounding materials make a big difference.

Below are six butter yellow paint shades, each with a distinct vibe, to help you find the right one for your home.

1. Warm & Cozy Built-Ins

This style of butter yellow feels grounded and inviting. It works especially well on built-ins, shelving, and banquettes where you want a space to feel intentional and cozy.

Why it works:

• Enhances natural wood tones

• Feels warm without being bright

• Ideal for reading nooks or small rooms

2. Sunny Dining Rooms

This butter yellow is cheerful and fresh, especially when paired with bold accents like red chairs or dark wood furniture.

Paint color: Dixcote by Farrow & Ball
https://www.farrow-ball.com/paint/dixcote

Best for:

• Dining rooms

• Breakfast nooks

• Spaces that benefit from energy and contrast

3. Classic & Traditional

A deeper, more muted butter yellow that feels timeless rather than trendy. This shade works beautifully in older homes or rooms with antiques.

Paint color: Cat’s Paw by Farrow & Ball
https://www.farrow-ball.com/paint/cats-paw

Why choose this:

• Warm but restrained

• Pairs well with traditional decor

• Doesn’t read dated

4. Soft & Modern

This is a lighter, creamier butter yellow — great if you want warmth but are nervous about going too yellow.

Paint color: Arctic Roll by Coat Paints
https://coatpaints.com/products/arctic-roll

Great for:

• Open-concept spaces

• Minimal interiors

• Rooms with less natural light

5. Practical Spaces That Still Feel Thoughtful

Butter yellow works beautifully in mudrooms, hallways, and utility spaces. A slightly muted tone keeps things warm and welcoming without feeling precious.

Paint color: Hay by Farrow & Ball
https://www.farrow-ball.com/paint/hay

Why it works:

• More forgiving than white

• Adds character to functional spaces

• Easy to live with day to day

6. Soft, Sun-Washed Living Spaces

This version of butter yellow leans neutral and relaxed, making it ideal for living rooms and bedrooms.

Paint color: Sundance by Sherwin-Williams
https://www.sherwin-williams.com/homeowners/color/find-and-explore-colors/paint-colors-by-family/SW6977-sundance

Best for:

• Living rooms

• Primary bedrooms

• Homes with lots of natural textures

How to Choose the Right Butter Yellow

Before committing, consider:

• Natural light (north-facing rooms need warmer tones)

• Trim color (creamy whites work best)

• Existing materials like wood, stone, and textiles

Always sample paint on multiple walls — butter yellow is subtle, and lighting can completely change how it looks throughout the day.