Design Spotlight: Lavender

Lavender has matured over the past few seasons with a wide spectrum of undertones that take it from sweet to sophisticated. From relaxed violet-greys to pinky blushes, this color is finally getting the "wall time" it deserves!⁠There is so much to appreciate in this color, especially in its nuanced forms.

We gathered some of the most popular questions about decorating with lavender and asked our resident designers and color specialist Philippa Radon from Philippa Radon Design to provide some insight.  

1. How do I keep lavender from looking too young or sweet?

Try using it in a more contemporary environment. Pairing it with clean, tailored lines and modern shapes keeps it from overpowering the room. Layer in some neutrals and a single dark accent to ground it.

2. How do I choose the right shade? 

There are so many beautiful shades of this tone, some leaning toward grey and others toward blush. To get started, ask yourself these questions:

• What is the message of the room in terms of mood?
• Which of the four basic shades of lavender appeals to you? Rosy and soft; grey and muted; blue and luminous; or dark and saturated. 

Then, consider your shade with the flooring which is the other largest square footage element, and take note of the function of the room as well as the natural light.

3. How can I keep it from coming off as overly feminine?

It’s important to understand that no colour is ever seen in isolation; it is always in a relationship with other colours. How you pair your lavender selection will affect how dressed up, neutral or bold it comes across. You can also pair with deep hues like greys to ground it and add more masculine touches or natural elements like wood and metals to keep it modern.

All full-spectrum paint colours adapt to the other elements in your room because of their chameleon-like qualities that allow it to change as the natural light does. Pairing it with charcoal grey or a soft black and natural elements like light or fumed wood tones and polished nickel (which has a softer hue to it) takes it from feminine to fabulous!

4. I love the color, but don’t want to paint my walls. I’m a commitment-phobe!

I hear this comment often from clients who like to mix things up seasonally or implement new trend details. They don’t want a foundation palette to dominate a space.Some of the most incredible uses of lavender we’ve seen are in accessories, so I recommend investing in some of these key pieces to showcase the color (without the commitment!)

Also try adding in lavender

• Pillows
• Throws
• Floral arrangements

5. Purple is my favorite color but I’ve been too nervous to decorate with it.

I would strongly suggest making a signature statement in a small space. Perhaps a powder room or personal workspace?

You already know you love the colour, so what is holding you back from implementing something you know makes you feel good?  Find the shade you love, perhaps paint the trim, interior door and ceiling in one shade and a compliment purple shade or complement colour on the walls.  

6. What colors do I pair Lavender with?

This colour is so captivating and incredibly versatile. Just remind yourself of what the overall space objective is when pairing colours together.