How to Use Purple in Your Home

Purple - the Color of Royalty and Your Favorite

JUNEANN REED
Sometimes we wonder just how to use purple in our homes. And when we think of purple, just what color are we actually thinking of. Some designers and decorators are picturing an almost navy blue purple while others are seeing a red cast or lavender purple - more of a plum color.

One fun thing about the color purple is that just about all purples blend well. If you use an actual dark purple to paint your walls and accent it with white - your room will shout your personality. However, remember that it works with the pastel lavenders, pinks, yellows, blues and almost any color.

Purple is also great as an accent color. Imagine a yellow kitchen, trimmed in white with purple hints throughout. Purple place mats or dishes, area rugs or chair coverings would be so showy and bright. Add a vase of purple flowers and most likely those who come in your kitchen will be joyful.

It is difficult to realize that in by gone days only royalty accessed purple because the blue dyes to make the purple cloth were so expensive. We think of royal blues and purples when we look at pictures of homes and clothing of the well-to-do during those times.

Purple works well as a contemporary color just because it is so strong and lively. It is the look that people want and they will struggle to find just the right shade that will work best in their home. When choosing a color for your home [or wherever], always remember to go with a color that "you" are comfortable with. If someone talks you into it and you are not convinced you'll love it, perhaps you should rethink your color choice.

Maybe you're the one who wants several rooms painted in different hues or shades or purple. Or perhaps you're looking more towards using purple as your favorite accent color. Anything can be all right and purple throw pillows or accent rugs - or even accents that just have a touch a purple - can cheer up your room immediately. If the color doesn't work, you have the choice of changing it without too much expense.

Before you actually pick purple as your main color, take time to check around and pick out your favorite color. Maybe it's a purple in a painting or an accent piece you already have or in your favorite dress or jewelry. Many of us enjoy colors in our home as a growth from the clothes hanging in our closet. Take time to really look at a sunset and note the variety of purples you will see.

Some years purples are difficult to find. That could be the case with the purple color you have in mind. Take your time to decorate your home so that you and those who enter will enjoy its strengths and purpose.

Published by JUNEANN REED

Juneann, now retired, worked as a professional non-profit fund raiser for 16 years. She also worked in an adult care center directing activities for seniors and during her husband's accute illness was presi...  View profile

  • Purple is a fun, bright color that can be used as a traditional or contempory choice.
  • There are many shades and hues of purple - pick your choice.
  • Purples look well with many other colors.
Look at the sunset to see the many colors of purple. Look around before making a color selection for your home.

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