During the Color of the Year season, paint companies unveil their chosen hue for the upcoming year, after peering into their crystal balls. This time around, the standout favorite is purple. Forecasted by several paint companies, purple is set to dominate walls, ceilings, and trim in 2025. While the exact shade may vary, the consensus from both brands and interior designers is clear—purple is poised to make a significant impact in the months ahead.
Purple is not limited to bright, neon tones reminiscent of children’s books. The trending purples are softer and more subtle, offering versatility in design. Described as a “new neutral” by creative experts, purple can range from gentle mauve tones to rich, jewel-toned magentas. This color versatility appeals to many individuals seeking a balance between boldness and subtlety in their living spaces.
The resurgence of purple in interior design is attributed to a departure from the all-white, cream color schemes that have dominated recent years. Designers are now embracing saturated colors like purple to infuse character and personality into spaces. This shift signals a growing preference for vibrant and colorful interiors over traditional neutrals.
While neutrals like whites and grays will always have a place, the trend toward bolder color choices is evident. Consumers are seeking more adventurous and expressive design options to break away from the monotony of subdued color palettes. Interior designers and paint companies alike are championing purple as the color to watch in 2025, with shades like Cinnamon Slate, Purple Basil, and Violet leading the way.
Purple’s allure lies in its ability to be both bold and calming, offering a harmonious balance that resonates with current design trends. As the Color of the Year, purple represents a shift towards more dynamic and expressive interior choices that capture the essence of individuality and creativity in design.
“Vibrant yet timeless,” says Downing. “Paint companies are responding to our collective desire for spaces that feel personal and layered.”
Photography by Kirk Douglas Swinehart / Interior Design by Jayne Design Studio
To some, purple can seem intimidating—it’s not as approachable as a warm brown or a rich terracotta. Plus, there’s a wide range of shades to choose from—from light lavender to rich aubergine. Thankfully, interior designers have already used this popular color plenty, and have a few recommendations.
“Using it as a color wash on walls or ceilings instantly makes a space feel intimate or moody,” says Staver Gray, co-founder and principal of Ward + Gray. “In contrast, adding it as a pop of color in a lighter space helps ground the design, while maintaining brightness.”
Since purple can take many forms, it can look beautiful in various rooms and scenarios. “It has an across-the-board application—there are so many varieties, so you really can’t go wrong,” says Cullum. “In our apartment, I used Benjamin Moore’s Beach Plum in the living room. It’s a frothy lilac color.”
Downing even breaks it down room by room, noting that lavender works well in bedrooms and bathrooms for a more tranquil atmosphere, and a rich aubergine is perfect for dining rooms and libraries. “I think after seeing so much gray and cream, we’re all excited for real colors,” adds Cullum. “It’s something special and unique that hasn’t been done over and over.”
