A symbol of nobility and luxury since ancient times, it was Roman emperor Julius Caesar who first wore a purple toga which subsequent emperors of Rome adopted as their ceremonial dress.
Now shades of purple, from soft lilac to amethyst to violet to rich eggplant, can be found in homes around the world as soothing pops of colour and statement designs.
Go bold for vibrancy or soft for calm
Bold purple shades are often used in subtle ways, in fabrics, wallpapers and decor items to add vibrancy and interest to a room.
Softer hues are like mauves and lavender are popular to promote a calming environment.
Mix it up
Purple can be paired with various colours to create different vibes. A mix of purple and blue add vibrancy to a neutral backdrop, as does purple and yellow.
Jewel tones
For the bold a mix of jewel colours such deep amethyst, garnet and sapphire can look fabulous. For more subtle tones purple pairs well with neutral colours like grey, tan, black and white.
And according to German poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe “purple demands green”.
Start small
Want to start small? Opt for a cushion cover, throw or small decor item like a vase to introduce purple into your colour scheme.
Add some energy
According to Feng Shui practitioner Katie Weber from Red Lotus Letter purple is the “feng shui beige”as it’s the colour that is works in most areas, generating good chi.
A mix of soothing blue and energetic red, purple can be used wherever you would like to add some energy.
In the bedroom
Soothing tones of purple can work well in the bedroom, adding a hint of colour to an otherwise neutral bedroom. Neither overly feminine or masculine it can work as a gender neutral tone.
Purple pops
Rich purple colour shades as seen here in the artworks lifts neutral colours and adds life to modern interior design and decor.
