When choosing a color for a room, many factors come into play. Dark purple can be an elegant, dramatic, and cozy choice, but it’s not right for every space. Here are some quick pros and cons to consider about using dark purple paint or decor in a room.
Pros of Dark Purple
- Elegant and luxurious – Dark purple has an upscale, regal look.
- Dramatic – The deep, saturated shade makes a bold statement.
- Soothing – Darker shades of purple have calming, tranquil qualities.
- Welcoming – Dark purples like eggplant have a cozy, enveloping effect.
- Distinctive – Purple stands out as an unexpected, creative color.
Cons of Dark Purple
- Moodiness – The color can seem gloomy if not offset with lighter accents.
- Shrinking effect – Saturated, darker colors can make a room feel smaller.
- Difficult pairing – Finding complimentary colors can be tricky.
- Resale value – Deep purple may turn off some home buyers.
Best Rooms for Dark Purple
Here are some of the best rooms in your home to paint or decorate with a rich, dramatic dark purple:
- Bedroom – Dark purple can create a luxurious, restful retreat. Pair with white and metallics.
- Bathroom – Eggplant and plum beautify a spa-like bathroom. Coordinate with gray and cream.
- Living room – Use deep purple on an accent wall or furnishings. Allow natural light.
- Dining room – Sophistication rules in a moody, elegant space. Layer in gold and candlelight.
- Library or office – Stimulate creativity and concentration with regal purple hues. Add natural wood tones.
- Entryway or hallway – Greet guests with a bold yet welcoming dose of purple. Include mirrored accents to brighten.
In small doses, darker purple can work well in almost any room, from nurseries to kitchens.
How Lighting Affects Dark Purple
With darker paint colors, proper lighting is key. Here’s how light impacts the look of deep purple walls and decor:
- Natural light keeps the mood uplifted and vivid.
- Cool overhead lighting can emphasize gloominess.
- Warm light bulbs prevent a cave-like effect.
- Well-placed lamps cast a cozy glow.
- Candlelight creates a romantic, relaxing ambiance.
- Bright light washes the color out.
- Darkness can make the room feel like a jewel box.
Be sure to test colors at different times of day. North-facing rooms may need extra illumination.
Paints and Tones that Work with Dark Purple
Picking the perfect dark purple shade and accent colors can make all the difference. Here are some pleasing paint and fabric options:
- Eggplant – A lush, elegant purple with red undertones. Pairs well with cream.
- Plum – A reddish purple reminiscent of ripe plums. Complements metallics.
- Royal purple – Rich, regal purple with blue tones. Great with gold accents.
- Wine – Deep burgundy purple. Stunning with deep greens.
- Byzantium – Reddish purple with vibrancy. Pops against gray.
Some pleasing coordinating colors include:
- Soft sage green
- Pale blue
- Warm white
- Dove gray
- Metallics like gold, silver, bronze
Best Furniture and Decor for Dark Purple Rooms
Furnishings and accents in shades of purple along with complementary neutrals and metallics create a posh, customized look. Here are some striking ideas:
- Eggplant or plum sofa or velvet chairs
- Dark purple area rug
- Sheer plum curtains
- Roman or roller shades in purple tones
- Candles in amethyst glass holders
- Silver, gold, or mercury glass lamps
- Mirrored furniture like side tables
- Whitewashed wood end tables
- Metallic and glass vases and decor
Don’t forget the finishing touches like plush purple pillows, throws, and accessories!
Conclusion
With its regal, mysterious beauty, dark purple delivers drama and elegance to living spaces. However, the moody color isn’t ideal for every room due to its bold intensity. Choose the right purple tones and pair colors wisely, allow ample lighting, and add plenty of lighter accents. Then you can enjoy a luxurious, distinctive space with the power and passion of purple.
