Who doesn’t love purple? It’s a color we associate with royalty and our favorite dessert: ube. As if that’s not enough, it’s also the signature color of BTS (borahae!). If there was ever a shade that could capture opulence, sweetness, and nostalgia, it’s definitely purple. 

Of course, we love filling our surroundings with things that remind us of our favorite artists and treats. ‘Yung tipong titingnan pa lang ng mga visitors, magugutom na sila. Thankfully, this sophisticated yet nakakagutom color can surprisingly blend beautifully with your other pieces — you just need to know how to make it work.

Making Purple Home Decor Work (Plus Some Budols)

Purple can seem slightly daunting to people who haven’t experimented much with interior decorating. It’s an eye-catching color, which is a double-edged sword. On one hand, vibrant and distinct hues can make your room look pak na pak, since it adds much life and character. However, they’re a far cry from the neutrals we’re typically used to. In short, mahirap ternuhan. 

But you’ve got to start somewhere, and that’s why we’re here to give you tips that can help you add ube-licious and royal vibes to your home. Here’s how to make any space the epitome of purple heaven. (P.S. Our Army hearts are swooning, too!) 

Start with Subtle Accents

Syempre, sa una, pabebe muna. There may be better pieces to start with than a sizeable purple couch because it requires a lot of work around it. When you try easing your space into this eye-catching color, ensure there’s enough to be noticeable but not too much na masakit sa mata.

You can start with throw pillows or cushions—there’s an array of designs you can choose depending on your sense of style. For example, these cute flower ones are for those into anything cutesy and whimsy. If you’re into more minimalistic interiors, this cushion square pad is giving both Scandinavian and playfulness. 

If you’re into the uso items, the stuff of Gen Z dreams, toys and figurines can also be a sweet touch. (And no, it’s not pambata; many of us are into it, too!) Consider propping up a medium-sized plushie, a super-cute addition to any space. Too kitschy? Go for small ornaments that can add charm to any tabletop. 

Here’s a super cute inspo from one of our Kapitbahays, Wela Doña. See how she incorporates purples as small accents—placemats, throw pillows, flowers, curtains—and how beautiful they look against neutrals.

Another way to infuse purple home decor in a subtle way is by starting with a “safe” shade. Think lavender, lilac, periwinkle, or other pastels. Bonus points if they look unique to round off the softness, like a geometric lamp or a tall candle that will catch anyone’s eye.

Make It Elegant and Ma-Drama with Deep Tones

Not one for subtlety? Edi go big or go home! On the other side of the spectrum, you can always experiment with deeper hues of purple. Going for bold colors is excellent if you want more luxury and less pastel. Picture it: an accent plum wall or a couch upholstered in plush amethyst velvet. Naks, pang-royalty.

If you want your home to embody elegance, add a statement piece or two. For example, a fabric-cushioned seat adds the right touch of luxury to any room, whether the living room or bedroom. Deep purple curtains look great against light-colored walls and add visual contrast for the perfect drama.

Think of it like putting an outfit together: Statement pieces instantly draw the eye.

Make sure that you don’t have too many statement pieces at once, though. Sabi nga ni Coco Chanel, “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.” While we’re not discussing fashion here, the sentiment also applies to your home. The point is: Aim for classy, not cluttered. 

Harmonize with Complementary Colors

You know what they say: Opposites attract. That’s true in interior design principles, too. In the color wheel, the direct opposite of purple is yellow. But don’t limit yourself to yellows—other colors can also complement if paired tastefully. Purples are cool-toned, which means they look great with warm-toned counterparts.

For example: If you have deep purple accents here and there, gold statuettes (or a sculpture, if you’re daring enough) complement it beautifully. A canvas wall art is also an excellent option to give off extra sossy vibes.

Another principle that’s always foolproof is dark and light contrasts. (It can be dramatic, but aren’t we all sometimes?) Creams, grays, sage green, and the like can beautifully accentuate purples. A grape-colored centerpiece will balance out beautifully with a neutral-toned rug.

Add a Focal Point or Area

Strong, vivid colors like violet demand attention. They can overwhelm you and your bisitas if they don’t play out carefully. On the other hand, if you do it well, purples — especially lavenders and heathers — can be pleasant and relaxing. 

Make an area stand out by choosing the right pieces and furniture. A cute, ube-colored swivel chair will be the perfect touch of whimsy to your work desk or gaming corner. Just make sure to surround it with items that enhance it. 

Pictures and memorabilia against a purple backdrop are more subdued yet sweet and eye-catching. For example, a set of BTS merch and plushies can make anything look thoughtful if you're an Army.

Your focal area doesn’t have to be just an aesthetic, it can also be sentimental.

Inspo alert: The stunning display above from Danica Ruth, one of our Kapitbahays! So go ahead and display your Indigo-themed merch with pride.

Let Your Plantita (or Plantito) Self Shine

Botanicals make any room look more inviting, lush, and cheerful. They offer a breath of fresh air — literally — and a kind of rustic charm to any urban space. But of course, not everyone has a green thumb, so it’s totally understandable if you opt for fake or silk plants instead. (Really, we won’t judge.)

Luckily, plants come in a wide array of purples. Prayer plants and Persian Shields have unique, violet-colored leaves for a perfect pop of color. For flowers, go for lavenders, orchids, and violets. All the better if they’re real because it’s a huge bonus point that they have a soothing aroma. Oh, ‘di ba, pretty na, mabango pa.

You can get indoor plants just about anywhere. Check out online stores like Unbeliefable or Spruce Plant Shop if you’re in the Metro Manila area. As for fake plants, go to your local department store — you will find a match for sure!

Make Your Space Ube-r Ganda with Home Buddies

In this community, we love all colors. But something about purple makes it special—it’s unique and all-encompassing. It can go from sosyal to whimsy. Depending on your vibe, it can also be opulent or cute, like pastel.

So, are you on the hunt for purple home decor? Our Kapitbahays got you. Find all the inspo you need when you join our Facebook group or follow us on Instagram. See you there!