The Color Purple

We commonly refer to the color that occurs between red and blue, purple.  Purple has long been associated with royalty, nobility, luxury, and ambition stemming from the fact that in ancient times, only the very rich could afford it.  The 4th century B.C. historian, Theopompus, reported, "Purple for dyes fetched their weight in silver" at market.  Just as it did in ancient times, purple continues to convey wealth and extravagance. The fact that is is a very rare color in nature adds to its mystique and desirability.

But, use purple with caution.  No matter the intensity you choose, it is not a color that can be thrown into a room with a nonchalant attitude thinking that it will work with anything (like pale yellow).  The lighter hues of purple evoke romantic and nostalgic feelings.  Light purple is a good choice to add a feminine touch, and it works especially well in the design mix of children's rooms.  I recommend that you use dark purple sparingly as it evokes intense emotions; not necessarily positive.  For a pleasant color marriage,  mix with shades of green.  Both light and dark shades of purple work nicely with the fresh, hopeful hues of green.

Some of my favorite accents to help you lend just the right  touch of purple to your spaces are show below.  Retail prices are shown.  Always contact us to for our price quote and lead time on all fabrics, rugs, lighting and furniture.

pillows

Alexandre Turpault, $33 Robert Allen/Beacon Hill, $900

 Ben Moore Victorian Purple 1370      Duralee Purple Sage 14757-894, $118/yd       Ben Moore Purple Cream 2073-70    

rug


French Accents, $72 per square foot
Dorian Webb, $16,500
glass
candle Paddywax, $38
Ryan Studio, $176 pillow
stool Boussac, $1,675, stool; $172, fabric


pillow glass
Kevin O'Brien Studio, $157 to $355 Murval, $8



art New River Artisans, $60 to $120/sq. ft.


Eastern Accents, $63

 pillow
art Paragon, $94
The Rug Market
sea accent Regina-Andr
ew Design

glassware pillow

Doug Frates Glass, $480

 Tessera, $225


pillow Thomas Paul, $100
TLS by Design, $2,000 and up bench
art W. King Ambler, $250 to $260
Vie Luxe, $45 candle
                                       
   

Posted by Carla at 1/2/2010 10:06 AM
Categories: Color
Tags: Develop your decorating style
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