Dark purple and brown are both dark, rich colors that can work beautifully together in the right context. Combining these deeper shades requires some forethought to keep the look sophisticated. When done well, dark purple and brown make for an elegant, upscale color pairing. In this article, we’ll explore how to successfully match these hues in your home.
The Color Theory Behind Dark Purple and Brown
On the color wheel, dark purple and brown sit next to each other. This makes them analogous colors, meaning they share common undertones.
Dark purple contains hints of red and blue. Red-purples take on a richer, warmer personality. Blue-purples appear cooler and more mellow. The intensity of the purple depends on how much red or blue is present. Deep plums and eggplants are very saturated, vivid purples. More subdued lavenders and lilacs have a softer effect.
Rich browns also run the gamut from warm reddish undertones to neutral taupes to cool brown-grays. Dark chocolate browns pair better with red-purple hues, while mocha and beige-browns complement blue-leaning purples.
Since dark purple and brown share an inherently deeper, muted quality, they automatically create a more sophisticated look than brighter, contrasting color combos. But care still needs to be taken when putting the two together.
Tips for Combining Dark Purple and Brown
Here are some top tips for pairing dark purple and brown successfully:
– Stick to one dominant color. Use the second one for accents. Having too much of both colors can look muddy.
– Add in neutral shades like black, white, gray, cream, or tan to give the eyes a break between the dark colors.
– Layer on metallics like gold, silver, bronze, or copper to make the palette glamorous.
– Introduce wood tones to bridge brown and purple.
– Use lighter values of the main color to keep things from getting too somber.
– Add in hits of contrasting colors like yellow, green, or soft blue in accessories.
– Printed fabrics like paisleys, florals, and geometrics can unite the two colors in an energizing way.
– Consider light and space. Darker colors can make a room feel smaller and more cavelike.
Which Color Should Dominate – Purple or Brown?
In most spaces, one of these rich colors should take precedence over the other to keep things harmonious. Here are some guidelines on choosing a main color:
| If your space gets plenty of natural light, go for a deeper, moodier purple as the star. |
| In darker rooms, make brown the priority color so things don’t get too somber. |
| Use regal purple in formal living rooms or dining rooms. |
| Warm chocolate browns feel right at home in cozy dens and offices. |
| Bold eggplant purple makes a dramatic statement in entryways. |
| Earthy brown shines in casual, cottage-style kitchens and bedrooms. |
Don’t be afraid to flip the script and let the secondary color command attention in one area, like on a focal wall or with furniture. This gives the scheme punch.
Purple and Brown Color Schemes
Determining the exact shades to use together takes some experimentation. Here are foolproof dark purple and brown color formulas inspired by nature:
| Color Scheme | Purple Shades | Brown Shades |
|---|---|---|
| Wine Country | Eggplant, Plum | Coffee, Espresso |
| Forest Floor | Elderberry, Lilac | Russet, Umber |
| Autumn Orchard | Mulberry, Grape | Hazelnut, Chestnut |
| Night Sky | Amethyst, Lavender | Chocolate, Slate |
| Victorian Parlor | Wisteria, Plum | Espresso, Taupe |
Use these palettes as a jumping off point, tailoring the shades to your own space. The colors can go deeper and richer for drama or be softened with creams and whites.
Applying Dark Purple and Brown to Your Room
Here are some ideas for infusing your home with smooth dark purple and brown aesthetics:
Wall Colors
Paint one an accent wall in deep plum or chocolate brown. Or, paint architectural trims and moldings in one color against lighter main walls. Deep brown also grounds light wallpaper patterns.
Furniture
Upholster larger pieces like sofas, headboards, and dining chairs in rich purple or brown. Use the opposite color for armchairs and side tables.
Fabrics
Adorn windows with curtains, roman shades, and accent pillows in jewel-toned purple prints or earthy woven browns.
Rugs and Flooring
Ground the scheme with an area rug featuring both colors. Dark wood or bronze floor tiles also coordinate.
Decor and Art
Display ceramics, candles, vases, sculptures, or paintings in complementary purple and brown tones. Metallic accents in copper and bronze enrich the look.
Lighting
Chandeliers, sconces, and table lamps in an aged brass finish underscore both hues. Dim lighting keeps the moody vibe.
Example Rooms with Dark Purple and Brown
Here are some stunning spaces that artfully combine deep purple and brown:
Majestic Living Room
This formal living area uses eggplant purple on the sofa, pillows, armchairs and window treatments contrasted by chocolate brown walls and trims for a rich, regal feel. Touches of gold add glam.
Rustic Dining Room
A dark wood plank dining table surrounded by brown leather chairs pops against a purple accent wall in this cozy, cabin-inspired dining space.
Vintage Bedroom
Lavender walls, floral bedding, and purple window panels complement the dark wood bed frame and nightstands for vintage charm in this restful retreat.
Sleek Kitchen
Deep purple lower cabinets grounded by brown hardwood floors create a smart, stylish combo in this contemporary kitchen. The glass tile backsplash ties the palette together.
Boho Home Office
With eggplant walls, a warm brown leather office chair, and antique accessories, this hideaway excels in melding purple and brown in an inviting, bohemian way.
Conclusion
Dark purple and brown strike a rich, sophisticated balance when used purposefully together in a space. Keep one color dominant and the pairing harmonious by adding plenty of neutrals and metallics. With the right touch, this dramatic duo brings interiors to life with a mood that manages to be both cozy and regal. Use the universal combination anywhere you want to make a bold yet comfortable statement.