Historically, purple was associated with sophistication, luxury and royalty, but it’s often considered a risky color in home design. Today, designers are experimenting with rich shades of purple as vibrant and moody tones become more prevalent in modern interiors. Imagine dramatic powder rooms, ethereal bedrooms and cozy living spaces defined by bold purple accents.
Blues and greens have been popular for years, but it looks like purple is taking over as the latest color trend — and we’re loving the possibilities it presents for just about any room. Design experts are taking on this color challenge, whether it’s with purple walls, upholstered furniture or kitchen cabinets.
Why has purple become a major color trend?
“Purple carries with it a sense of creativity and luxury,” says Laura Umansky, founder of Laura U Design Collective. “As we navigate through a period where people are seeking comfort and a bit of escapism in their homes, purple provides a vibrant yet soothing presence that is both rich and enveloping.”
No longer are clean, minimalist interiors the norm. Instead, designers are leaning toward bright and moody colors that make a statement and express individuality. “These tones, especially in a post-pandemic world, help to delineate our homes as sanctuaries of personal expression and joy. They are also a reaction to the neutral palettes that have dominated the last decade — people are ready to be bold,” says Umansky.
“Purple can bring richness and drama to a space that needs a bit of depth,” adds interior designer Zoë Feldman, who cautions that decorating with purple can be tricky. “It’s a complicated color because it can verge on cheesy if used incorrectly. We use very particular purples that make the color more palatable: think a rich aubergine or muddy lavender rather than a grape tone.”
If you’re not ready for monochromatic moment, incorporate shades of purple through furniture pieces like sofas and accent chairs, or more subtle throw pillows, artwork and lighting fixtures. “Accents are the perfect way to add color without the commitment,” says Dana Schwartz of Dana Schwartz Design.
Purple is more versatile than you think. Light lavender and crisp lilac can feel calming and feminine in bedrooms, while deeper purples, like aubergine and wine, bring warmth and richness.
Purple is an increasingly popular paint and accent color for bedrooms, both for young girls and adults. “Purple works beautifully in personal spaces where its calming qualities can be most appreciated — like bedrooms,” says Umansky. “However, in communal spaces like living rooms or dining rooms, a deeper hue can stimulate conversation and add a layer of sophistication and unexpected whimsy.”
Try a regal shade of purple if you’re looking for a trendy way to infuse color in your home. “Purple brings so much to a space,” says Schwartz. “It represents peace and harmony, so in a softer tone it can bring a sense of calm. Purple also represents royalty, so in a bolder tone it can bring a sense of presence and power to a space.”
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.
