No Need to Shrink From Violet
My father-in-law was filming a television commercial in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace some years ago. It was an uncharacteristically hot day in London, but the shoot called for the queen’s guards to be marching energetically in full regalia — bearskin caps and red woolen coats. Dad saw the sweat pouring off their brows and asked with legitimate concern if they wouldn’t like a break and some cold water. “Mr. Dietrich,” the colonel in charge responded sternly, “we are not a bunch of shrinking violets!”
So how did the poor violet, with its gorgeous array of colors and sweet aroma, get this undeserved reputation? One theory is that the flower grows in out-of-the-way places, hiding in the shadows. Its color, however, is anything but shy and retiring, and its varied hues can make a welcome addition to the home.
For starters, I am defining violet as nature does: a wide range of hues, ranging from the softest creamy lavender to the deepest pungent purple. Violet and purple are kindred spirits on the color wheel and often happily invade each other’s space.
Paired with aqua, black and white, a soft version of violet makes this bedroom a refreshing retreat.
In this contemporary living room, the deep shade of violet produces a crisp and engaging contrast against the white love seat.
I am pulled in like a magnet to this bedroom in India. The use of color in other cultures can really open our minds to new possibilities. I love the exotic mix of red, orange, yellow, green and blue in what is otherwise a predominantly violet room.
One thing I love about a white and neutral wood palette is that you can take any favorite color and just splash it in there. The fortuitous use of violet here creates a fantastic feast for the eyes.
For some reason this violet bedroom for a girl makes me think of Paris. (How many mimes had to give up their shirts for those black and white striped curtains?) Ooh la la!
Wall paint: Violet Petal, Benjamin Moore
Just a few touches of violet have transformed what could have been a cold and forbidding modern gray living room into a romantic and artful one.
This rather dignified and traditional bedroom is quite the polar opposite of the previous room. Violet and coral evoke a refreshing spring picnic and make my mouth water.
In this grand and formal living room, with its soaring columns and regal chandelier, violet is unexpected and a bit whimsical. To me it extends a welcoming smile and says, “I’m not taking myself too seriously.”
Why does this call to me? Maybe because violet works so well with hard-edged industrial materials. It stands up to them, complements them, makes them livable. (Plus, I love those huge windows.)
Surprise is always a great design tool, but the trick is to use it in a way that isn’t jarring. In this case the surprise of the violet bar stools is delightful, adding punch — but not a punch in the face.
Violet contributes some depth and richness when paired with white and aqua. Even though this picture was taken in the U.K., I am transported to the Mediterranean when I look at it. Hard to imagine for those who know me well, but this photo leaves me speechless.
I have had dear friends whose favorite color combination is violet and lime green, but they were afraid to use it in their home. If only I’d had a photo of this dining room to show them when they decorated; their hesitation would have quickly melted away.
I am inspired and liberated by the way color works in our gardens. In a garden I don’t obsess about exactly the right tint of this, tone of that or tincture of the other. As with any color, if you like violet, have a little fun with it — and don’t shrink from using it!
More:
Welcome Yellow Around Your House for an Instant Lift
The Palette’s Power Suit: Energize with Red
