The Power of Purple
To wrap up our focus on the colour purple, I want to take a little extra time to delve into the psychology behind this hue and explore how it can be effectively used in various settings, anywhere from homes to businesses and even educational facilities.
The colour purple has long since been associated with connotations of luxury, creativity, and spirituality. It has a unique position on the colour spectrum—it sits somewhere between a calming blue and a very energetic red—this allows it the distinct ability to evoke a range of emotions and responses. When we examine this colour from a historical point of view, we learn that purple was once considered a rare and expensive colour to produce, and because of this was often reserved for royalty and the elite. To date, we continue to see its association with wealth and opulence, this makes it an excellent choice for creating that sense of luxury and sophistication in any room, for example, using deep, rich shades of purple in living rooms, can instantly transform these areas into regal spaces, where plush purple sofas or armchairs make a bold, elegant statement. Pairing these with the more neutral tones will help balance out that vibrancy and enhance the overall feel of sheer opulence in the room.
In addition to all its luxurious implications, purple has also been known to spark the imagination and inspire creativity. I would love to see this colour being used more often in spaces where innovative thinking and artistic expression are not only welcomed but encouraged, and one room that immediately comes to mind is the home office, you can easily introduce purple accents like an office chair, accessories, or even do a feature wall. These simple touches can stimulate the mind and boost productivity, creating an environment that’s not only visually pleasing, but conducive to creative work. Similarly, the strategic use of this colour in a place of business tends to foster a forward-thinking ethos, I’ll give you another example, a reception area that is decorated with pieces of art containing hints of purple or even furniture, will convey a sense of sophistication and leaves a lasting impression on both your clients and visitors. Additionally, by intentionally incorporating purple accents throughout our workspaces -think office supplies and wall art- you can encourage creativity and innovation amongst staff. Using deep purple elements in places like a meeting room, can promote calm and focus, making discussions around the table that much more productive and centered.
Purple’s connection to spirituality and mindfulness can be a strong one, and the right shade -think soft lavenders and lilac hues- would work beautifully in spaces specifically designed for this, it creates a serene and contemplative atmosphere that is conducive to rest and relaxation. Now, if you’re not entirely comfortable committing to this colour on all four walls, these shades can still be represented through things like bedding, curtains, or even an accent wall.
In educational settings, purple can significantly enhance the learning environment amongst students. Lighter shades of purple can be utilized in classrooms to help create a more welcoming atmosphere, especially helpful for those first day jitters that are very often associated with back-to-school in the fall. Incorporate this colour on things like bulletin boards, and wall decals. By integrating these small doses of purple strategically throughout the classroom also helps to encourage that creativity you’re looking for amongst your students without overwhelming the space. Libraries and study areas are other spaces that can benefit from incorporating deeper purple hues, this can help foster a sense of quiet focus and introspection. Easily incorporate these darker shades using things like purple furniture, carpets, or wall accents. And if you’re looking to encourage social interaction and some creative thinking in common areas where students will generally gather and interact, I would suggest an appropriate mix of the more vibrant shades of purple along with the more subdued hues, it makes these spaces both functional and inspiring.
The colour purple has such a rich history along with its versatile psychological effects, and when used correctly is a powerful tool in interior design. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of luxury to your home, foster a touch of creativity in a business setting, or create a calm and inspiring environment in an educational facility, purple is your go-to hue.
