When using white and yellow together, keep the white tones warm.

“I rely on Benjamin Moore’s White Dove (OC-17) because it’s yellow-based -- it’s a forgiving white that’s not so harsh,” Jayne says. “Especially when you’re dealing with historic architecture, painting it dead white tends to make it look gray.”

In this space: Done in the most classic of color schemes, this blue, yellow, and white living room has a timeless, fresh-faced quality. The soft white of the bookshelves, trim, and fireplace surround blends beautifully with the yellow walls.

RESOURCES: Interiors by Josie McCarthy Associates, 214/954-0888, www.josiemccarthy.com. Custom armchair by Josie McCarthy Associates, with fabric by Hodsoll McKenzie through Zimmer + Rohde (to the trade), 203/327-1400, www.zimmer-rohde.com; limestone mantel by Danny Alessandro, Ltd., 212/421-1928; custom sofa by Josie McCarthy Associates, with fabric, Crespieres, by Pierre Frey (to the trade), 212/213-3099, www.pierrefrey.fr; Chinese lacquer coffee table by Mrs. MacDougall through Hinson & Company (to the trade), 212/688-5538; carpet by Stark (to the trade), 212/752-9000, www.starkcarpet.com.

NextPump up the color with accents.