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Power to the Purple
Don't shrink away from violet hues — with the right balance, they can be a room's strongest asset
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design is collected, not decorated, and that homes should always be as comfortable and functional as they are chic. In addition to writing for Houzz, I work as the Head Copywriter for Layla Grayce and Zinc Door.
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design... More »
Purple is a tricky color to work with. As a Houzz user recently lamented, it's not easy to incorporate this hue into a space. Like pink, purple can easily cross the line into superfeminine with one wrong pillow or over-the-top paint. But using this bold hue is just a matter of balance. The right accessories, accent colors and applications can make this vibrant shade express the right tone for your home.
by Niche Interiors
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Rely on the royal combination of purple and gold. It's definitely not lacking in glamour, but the metallic element tones down purple's bold saturation. Look for fabrics or wallpapers that include both, or accessorize a purple room with gold accents. Combine it with other colors, like a complementary green, to create visual equilibrium.
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by Chris Snook
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| Incorporating purple in the right doses with the right colors can make all the difference. In a room heavy with orange, a simple purple accent rug takes this space from monochromatic to chic. |
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Purple becomes even more dramatic — and slightly masculine — when paired with black. Whether you’re introducing purple through linens or furniture, consider black walls for a rich and bold look.
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Bright purples have their place in the home, too. Because these shades tend to dominate spaces, try introducing them in small doses and pairing them with darker furnishings and colors, like the brown, green and neutrals in this living space.
See more on magenta for rooms
See more on magenta for rooms
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Don’t shy away from purple walls — you just need to choose the right accessories. Turquoise furniture creates a secondary focal point in this playroom, toning down the surprising hue on the walls.
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| White walls and furniture feel crisp next to eggplant purple for a modern and sophisticated look. |
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An entire shelving unit in a pale shade of purple may seem kind of startling. But it works when paired with complementary yellow and natural wood floors.
The oranges and yellows in wood grain play off purple, which lies in the opposite position on the color wheel.
The oranges and yellows in wood grain play off purple, which lies in the opposite position on the color wheel.
by Kelly Porter
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Like pink, purple feels edgy when paired with an animal print. Even if you have a soft bedroom filled with purple, just one cheetah throw will spice up your space.
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Certain prints have a neutralizing effect on purple. Consider pairing purple furnishings with a vintage kilim rug. The carpet's pattern steals some of the limelight from the bright purple, resulting in better balance overall.
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by Peggy Braswell
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| Purple feels even more playful in unexpected applications, like trim. In this photo, the colors set one another off in a way that's subtle, balanced and unique. |
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Not ready to paint your walls purple yet? Try playing with smaller accents in complementary colors. These yellow lamps become eye-catching fixtures when topped with purple shades and still feel sophisticated.
Tell us: What are your secrets to using purple without going over the top?
Tell us: What are your secrets to using purple without going over the top?
Comments
Charmean Neithart Interiors, LLC. Great examples of the sophisticated side of purple. Of course, purple always makes me think of Prince who I grew up listening to. It's a great color. Thanks for your ideas Shawn. Charmean
11 months ago · Like
sumoo Great! I am planning to change my formal living area colours and purple was in mind. I have very ligth olive green sofas and chairs and going to add purple as an accent colour by adding cushions and some wall paintings. Hope it will turn out great.
5 months ago · Like
Ideabook published on June 23, 2012.
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