Pantone® didn’t select ultra violet as its colour of the year for nothing - calling it a ‘dramatically provocative and thoughtful shade’ that ‘lights the way for what is yet to come.’ Purple is the perfect colour for creating a calming, relaxing environment. As it also has associations with wealth, prestige and royalty, here’s our tips for creating your own purple palace.

Shade selection

There’s an abundance of hues to choose from when incorporating purple into your home. Whether you prefer lilac, lavender, indigo, amethyst, grape, plum or iris - the purple palette is your oyster. Paler shades allow you to dip your toe into the purple pool and gently introduce the colour into your décor, while deeper, richer tones are ideal for immersing yourself into a more intense look.

Feature walls

Few design trends are more effective in achieving the wow factor than a feature wall - be bold and brave but make sure the surrounding area complements accordingly; if you’d prefer to play it safe then stick to plain patterns or block colour teamed with neutral colours on the remaining walls and accessories. Pick the right wall too - it should be the focal point of a room; the one which the mantelpiece is on in the living room, or the one which your headboard sits against in the bedroom, for example.

Take a seat

If you’re going to incorporate a bold colour into your home, make a statement with a fabulous piece of furniture. Purple is said to create a sense of tranquillity, so a sumptuous sofa or armchair in plush purple makes for the perfect place to put your feet up and relax. Because it connotes feelings of royalty, aristocracy and wealth, keep the rest of the décor in that room pared back and simple.

Soft furnishings

A smattering of colourful cushions is the perfect way of instantly transforming a space. Break up block colour by incorporating several textures - try velvet, sequins or wool - or use different shades, patterns and shapes to create an impact. Try the ILIV Navarra fabric in Mulberry as a starting point. Give windows the dressing they deserve; whether you favour a dramatic, floor-length curtain in a heavy fabric, or a delicate, chiffon drape, select warm, jewelled tones for the luxurious look. Add a rug in a similar shade to tie it all together.

Flower power

Floral arrangements are an ideal way to inject a temporary splash of colour into your home, or trial a new shade, without fully committing to the look. A simple vase of violets, lavender or verbena would look stunning on a windowsill or fireplace, or as a centrepiece on your dining table. Pick your own fresh from the garden or opt for the artificial variety for long-lasting blooms.

 

What are your favourite ways to decorate with purple? Let us know in the comments.