Purple Rugs

The purple rug is boldness kept under control. The rarest colour in interiors, purple gives a genuine decorative signature to anyone brave enough to choose it. It speaks of depth, creativity and mystery, and its sophisticated shades (plum, aubergine, lavender) have gradually made their way into high-end contemporary interiors, particularly Art Deco, boho-chic and eclectic schemes.

The shades of purple

This under-explored family has some lovely variations:

• Plum: a dark purple leaning burgundy, deep and sophisticated
• Aubergine: a very dark purple, almost black. Thoroughly contemporary
• Lavender / lilac: pale and soft, calming
• Dusty mauve: between pink and purple, very gentle
• Royal purple: saturated and dramatic, luxurious Art Deco
• Parma violet: a delicate pastel purple

Which colours to pair it with

Purple asks for its partners to be chosen carefully:

• Plum with beige or cream: gentle sophistication
• Aubergine with grey and brass: contemporary Art Deco
• Lavender with white and pale wood: Scandinavian softness
• Purple with sage or emerald green: a bold pairing, very Art Nouveau
• Plum with dusty pink: a soft, sophisticated tonal scheme
• Aubergine with mustard: a rich autumnal contrast

Which room?

Purple creates intimacy. In an adult bedroom, plum or aubergine bring a luxurious, cocooning mood. In a study or library, it stirs creativity. In a living room, it needs a confident scheme around it or it will jar. Best avoided: the kitchen and the dining room (purple is said to suppress the appetite, a physiological effect).

Why are purple rugs so rare?

Purple remains a niche colour because it is hard to pair unless you know what you are doing. It calls for:

• An interior that is already reasonably structured and has a point of view
• Fine materials around it (brass, velvet, dark wood)
• Enough natural light so the room does not go gloomy
• Carefully chosen colour pairings

In return, it delivers a decorative signature very few other colours can match.