I rented this house thinking that it would just be for a year until we built out own..turns out I am going to be here for awhile. I detest the yellow walls but it has to stay because it runs all down the hall and into the porch (this is a split level home). It just doesn't feel cozy. I have a chocolate brown love seat and couch, q white fireplace, espresso shelf unit and tv armoire..what can I do to make this place seem more comfy and modern.

As you seem to have a pleasant color scheme, the very first thing that comes to mind is lighting. Lighting can make or break your space. Just adding a cooler color bulb (such as the GE Reveal line or a better compact fluorescent bulb) can make a room feel fresher and improve the appearance of colors. Make sure you have adequate general and task lighting, and spot lighting features such as artwork or a fireplace add interest and depth. Even adding a can uplight below a ficus or other large plant creates a dramatic impression. Natural light is always best, so keep windows as unobstructed as you can tolerate without sacrificing your privacy. This applies for your interior and exterior window treatments, including awnings and shutters. Speaking of which, fabric window treatments, throws, and pillows will always help cozy up a space, and floor cushions are a contemporary and casual way to make a room feel inviting. But the most important thing is to have things you love and that express your personality in the space; that way it will always feel like home.

Why does the wall color have to stay? Just because it runs a larger area doesn't mean it can't all be painted. I would speak with the landlord and talk to him about painting it. If you really hate the color you should try to change it. If you can live with the color then focus on adding those homey touchs. Pillows, pictures, maybe even a rug can all make a difference. Like Deco said - its your personality coming through that makes it home.

If you don't want to undertake re-painting the entire house, maybe your landlord will allow you to paint an accent wall. You could do your fireplace wall in a contrast color(pick up a color from your fabrics) and do the walls in the foyer the same color to tie in with the fireplace.

Just because the paint goes down the hall also does not mean you cannot paint a portion of it.Paint the room to where the hall begins or paint the end wall of the hall and the facing wall of the living room an accent color. it will make the rooms look larger as well.