What is it about a glowing fire or a brilliant summer sunset that holds our attention for hours? The colour orange is a captivating hue that is often overlooked in home decor because of its intensity. But when balanced correctly, orange will add a happy, stimulating and even healing atmosphere to your home space.

Toronto-based designer Carion Fenn (carionfenn.com) says orange is a favourite of hers for accenting a room. "The right shade of orange will always emphasize, elaborate and add character to a space," she says.

How to decorate with orange
A mix of strong red and vibrant yellow, orange is a powerful colour that will look beautiful when correctly balanced. Here are Carion's tips for using orange in your home:

In the kitchen: "Orange tones are great for utilizing in the kitchen if your cabinets are white and the space is in desperate need of warmth and character," she says.

In the office: Stimulate your creative juices in the office with sprinkles of orange tones around your work station.

In the living room: Try adding orange patterns as accents in toss cushions, artwork, an area rug, and other accessories to add a splash of colour and life without becoming overwhelming. Carion also suggests creating a focal wall using Benjamin Moore 2170-30 (Autumn Cover) and using Benjamin Moore CC-90 (Natural Linen) for a neutral and clean look on the other walls.

For a bolder look, Carion suggests introducing Benjamin Moore CC-720, Night Train with the above colour suggestions. "These colour values look fabulous with dark wood tones, especially when used in combination with cream or off-white furnishings and window treatments," she says.

In the dining room: Dark, earthy oranges are wonderful for the dining room, creating a great mood and vibe. The darker tones will also stimulate conversation and eating while creating a more dramatic, moodier environment.

Where to avoid orange in the home:
Carion cautions against using orange in the bedroom, entrance way, hallway, and bathrooms. "These are all areas which require a more inviting, subdued colour; you want these spaces to be more calm, relaxing, and inviting," she says.

Carion is the owner of Carion Fenn Interiors. Her work has been featured in New Dreamhomes & Condominium and Loulou magazines, plus she has designed feature spaces sponsored by Chatelaine and Home Décor and has appeared on CITY TV, SUN TV and ROGERS 10 to name a few. In addition to design, she is also poised to launch her own Carion Fenn Designer Furniture Line. Visit her website at carionfenn.com

1 Beaded Tear Drop Diamond Orange Pillow, $74
pillowdecor.com
The velvety-soft texture of this accent cushion will add warmth both in colour and fabric.

2 TYLÖSAND right-hand chaise, $699
ikea.com
Make a statement with a bold orange chaise. Sectional seating and chairs are also available in this shade.

3 Flameless wax candle, $10
presidentschoice.ca
The newest craze in candles are flamelss. Keep them "flickering" around your bedroom or patio without the worry.

4 ANDREA RUND rug, $399
ikea.com
An intricate pattern to warm up your living room.

5 2.L Bell Pepper casserole dish, $195
goldaskitchen.com
Who could resist a piping casserole from an orange pepper dish? Grandma would be proud.

6 Jacquard Towels Topaz, $39
restorationhardware.com
So fluffy and orange, they'll drink the moisture right off your body!

7 Debbie Travis desk clock, $15
canadiantire.ca
This happy orange clock will help you leap out of bed in the morning!

8 Poppies Vinyl Wall Art, US $58
raredevice.net
A fun twist away from traditional wallpaper, create a focal wall using this light and fun orange floral pattern.

9 Art Glass vase, US $40
pier1.com
Almost flame-like in appearance, this stunning piece will invigorate any space in the home.

10 Exotic handmade soap, $4.50 each
thinkgreenstore.com
These delicious slabs of handmade Canadian soap are good for you and for the environment. Enjoy swirls scented with patchouli, sweet orange and ylang ylang essential oils.

11 Built NY Two Bottle ByoBag Wine Tote, $22
totalhoemstore.ca
Not one, but two bottles of wine stash snug and safe in this tote bag. Bottoms up!

12 Mini Shroom Pendant Light, $135
hoemdepot.ca
For a modern look in your dining room or office, install a few of these skinny orange pendant lights.