Is Purple the New Decor Trend Dominating Interior Design in 2025?

December 26, 2024

The rise of purple as a dominant color in interior design trends for 2025 marks a significant shift from the neutral tones that have long been favored. Driven by annual “Color of the Year” proclamations from various paint companies, this change signals prevailing color trends that have garnered consensus among several industry leaders and interior designers. They collectively agree that purple, in its many shades, will be prominently featured in home decor and other interior spaces, creating environments that are both expressive and character-filled.

The Shift from Neutrals to Bold Hues

In recent years, interior design has been dominated by neutral colors like whites, grays, and browns. However, there is a growing preference among homeowners and designers for richer, bolder color palettes that inject more personality into spaces. This shift indicates a move towards more saturated hues, with purple emerging as a versatile and popular choice. Purple can serve as a new neutral, presenting subtler shades like mauve, or it can appear in more vibrant, jewel-toned variations like rich magenta for a dynamic effect. This versatility is appreciated by a widening audience keen on making a contemporary statement in their home design.

Prominent figures in the design world have shared their perspectives on this trend. William Cullum from Jayne Design Studio underscores purple’s flexibility, noting its capacity to oscillate between neutral and bold, depending on the shade and context within the interior space. Katibelle Sharkey from BAS Stone famously describes purple as the “new neutral,” reflecting its adaptability across various design elements, from veined marble countertops to sleek cabinet finishes. Both designers illuminate how purple can seamlessly bridge the gap between subtlety and statement, meeting the current demand for more articulate and individualistic home environments.

Historical Context and Resurgence of Purple

Historically, purple has often been perceived as a dated choice, closely associated with the decor styles of the 1970s. However, a new wave of interior designers is breathing fresh life into this once-stigmatized hue, capitalizing on its resurgence for modern applications. Kristin Harrison from Bungalow 10 Interiors attributes this renewed interest to a collective desire for colors that imbue spaces with warmth and personality. This trend stands in stark contrast to the sterile and often uninspiring ubiquity of neutrals. Annie Downing, another renowned designer, concurs, pointing to a general boredom with the longstanding dominance of light, bright neutral palettes as a catalyst for the embrace of more vibrant colors like purple.

This resurgence is further validated by the choices made by several influential paint companies. For instance, Benjamin Moore selected Cinnamon Slate, a plum shade with brown undertones, aligning with the broader trend of purple being used as a neutral. Similarly, Glidden’s Purple Basil, Minwax’s Violet, and Behr’s Rumors all feature various shades of purple that fit seamlessly into more saturated, richly textured interior spaces. These selections by industry leaders underscore an evolving consensus that purple is not only visually captivating but also immensely versatile.

Practical Applications of Purple in Interior Design

Interior designers offer a multitude of practical suggestions for incorporating purple into various living spaces. Staver Gray of Ward + Gray recommends using purple as a color wash on walls or ceilings to create an intimate, moody atmosphere. Alternatively, purple can be introduced as an accent in lighter spaces to achieve a balanced design that combines both vibrancy and subtlety. William Cullum shares his personal experience of employing Benjamin Moore’s Beach Plum in a living room setting, praising its frothy lilac tone for its refined and elegant appearance.

Annie Downing adds her perspective, suggesting the use of lavender tones for bedrooms and bathrooms to foster a calming effect, while richer aubergine tones can elevate dining rooms and libraries by introducing drama and a sense of luxury. These applications clearly indicate that purple’s versatility is extensive, refuting any preconceived notions that the color is too bold or outdated for modern design. This adaptability makes purple an appealing choice for a wide range of interior design scenarios, catering to both traditional and contemporary aesthetics.

The Broader Trend Towards Personalized Interiors

The emergence of purple as a leading color in interior design trends for 2025 signifies a major departure from the neutral tones that have reigned for years. Influenced by the annual “Color of the Year” selections from various paint companies, this transformation highlights key color trends that have been endorsed by numerous industry leaders and interior designers. They collectively assert that shades of purple will dominate home decor and other interior spaces, crafting environments that are rich in expression and packed with character. This shift points to a broader embrace of bolder, more dynamic color palettes, reflecting a desire for more personalized and vibrant living spaces. The use of purple, in its various hues ranging from deep, royal purples to softer lavenders, is expected to bring a sense of elegance and creativity to interiors. This trend not only marks a change in aesthetic preferences but also suggests a move toward more emotionally resonant and stimulating design choices, offering homeowners a fresh and invigorating approach to decorating their spaces.

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