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Didn't you hear? Purple is back!
The colour purple reigns again – and we couldn't be happier to see its rather fabulous return to our homes. Whether you go for soft and subdued lilacs and lavenders, statement violets, or deep and delicious plums and burgundy, dip into this directional colour palette for a chic and very modern style update.
Take a look at these fabulous, on-trend ideas for decorating with purple:
A gentle wash of muted purple and lilac hues brings warmth to a neutral scheme and works especially well in spaces intended for relaxing. Magnify the soothing effect by piling on cosy textures, such as ribbed corduroy, velvet and mohair.
Pictured: Luvette 2 corner 2 sofa in Taupe; French Connection Zinc velvet footstool in Mushroom; Dulce ceiling light; Viviana rug; all DFS.
This rich wine tone – the colour of the moment for good reason – will add instant sophistication, whether used as an accent or fearlessly floor-to-ceiling. Highly versatile, it’s the perfect partner to warm timber and earthy browns, as well as dusky pinks.
Pictured: Oliver console table; Isla velvet chair; both Oak Furnitureland. For similar paint, try Preference Red estate emulsion, Farrow & Ball.
Repeating colours within a space creates rhythm and flow. Here, this design trick has been elegantly employed, with a bold shade carried over walls, cabinetry and floors, ensuring the eye is drawn from one spot to the next for a cohesive and harmonious effect.
Photograph: Ben Anders. Interior designer: Linda Boronkay Design Studio.
Lots of pale purple can still make a stylish impact. Here, a gentle tonal palette has been combined with minty green accents that add a soft yet striking visual pop. Look for decorative details such as scallops, bobbins and spindles for a modern finish.
Pictured: Tulip curtains; Espresso print; Remi console table; Tulip vase; artificial blossom flower stem; Maya pendant; Blue candleholder; Plum candleholder; Remi mirror; Fifi dining chairs; Fifi dining table; Monaco cafetière; Camille mugs; Ferne glass vase; Lois rug; Lilac matt emulsion, all Dunelm.
Candy stripes in harmonising pastels bring a playful look, while purple and green – close companions on the colour wheel – make for joyful partners in a decor scheme, with sleek lines and black accents delivering a fun, modern edge.
Pictured: The Bold Stripe Lavender wall mural, Belarte Studio. Triangle table lamp in Lilac, Folk Interiors. For a similar sideboard, try Hamlett chest of drawers by Canora Grey, Wayfair.
Make a subtle statement with just the right amount of colourful detail. Here, a well-positioned stripe of soft purple tiles against a swathe of pink has a dip-dyed effect while elegantly defining the utilitarian space.
Pictured: Skinny metro tiles in Iris; for similar purple tiles, try Skinny metro in Leather; square tiles in Cherry Red; all Bert & May. For a similar round concrete basin, try Oska, Kast.
Bright and jewel-like, this is a shade that can add real impact. Use it with confidence and splash liberally on walls, doors and woodwork – or on a statement piece of furniture. Keep it grounded with pale chalky blush and nude tones.
Pictured: Main wall and woodwork in Cobalto; right door inside Plaster V; both Architects’ matt; cornice in Plaster V; (through door) wall and cornice in Roben’s Honour and Plaster III; all pure flat emulsion; bath in Kohl Architects’ satin; all Paint & Paper Library. For a similar side table, try Arya, Dunelm.
In a tonal scheme, textures are vital for adding depth and sophistication. In this deep purple bedroom, the panelling on the walls, velvet accessories and ruffle trims on the bedding elevate the whole look, creating a restful retreat packed with character.
Pictured: Super Soft cotton double duvet cover in Aubergine; Super Soft cotton Oxford pillowcases in Aubergine and Vintage Rose; Vintage Rose Finn cotton quilted throw; Vintage Rose Leah linen cushion cover; Vintage Rose Finn cotton quilted cushion cover; all Secret Linen Store.
Choosing a dark hue for walls and furniture might seem like a bold move, but thanks to plum’s earthy tones it feels surprisingly restful. With its warm undertones it looks fantastic with walnut woods, dusky pink and hints of gold.
Pictured: Theo armchair in Isla Old Rose velvet; walls painted in Clove matt paint; for a similar throw, try Bailey; for a similar cushion, try Grace; all Neptune.
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