When choosing a trim color to pair with purple walls, there are a few key factors to consider:
The Undertones of the Purple
Purple paint colors can range from cool to warm undertones. Cooler purple walls may have more blue or gray in them, while warmer shades lean towards red or pink. It’s important to identify the undertone of your specific purple paint color when selecting a complementary trim shade.
If your purple walls have cool undertones, you’ll want to choose a trim color in the same color family. Go for shades like gray, taupe, light blue, or slate blue for trim to match cooler purple walls. Warmer purples with red or pink undertones will look best with cream, beige, light pink, or terra cotta trim.
You can test the undertones of your wall color by holding different colored items next to it and seeing what makes the purple appear more vivid. If your purple looks more bold next to blue, it likely has warm undertones. If orange makes it stand out, the purple is probably on the cooler side.
The Lighting in the Room
The amount and type of natural and artificial lighting in a room impacts how paint colors are perceived. Bright, sunny rooms may be able to handle deeper or brighter trim shades without appearing overwhelming. Whereas lower lit spaces are best complemented by softer, more muted tones.
For a bright room with ample lighting, consider rich shades like navy, charcoal gray, chocolate brown, or even black for dramatic contrast against purple walls. For dimmer spaces, go for lighter neutrals like cream, very light gray, or beige instead. The lighter trim will keep the room feeling open and airy.
You can always paint swatches on the wall and view them at different times of day when the lighting changes to test out how trim colors look before committing to your choice.
Personal Color Preferences
While using the undertone of the purple and lighting as guides, don’t forget to also take your own personal color preferences into account. Think about colors you’re naturally drawn to and incorporate those into your decision.
If you tend to love bold, high contrast looks – combining deep berry purple walls with bright white trim can create a beautiful statement. If you prefer softer, more subtle appearances – try pale lilac walls with matching soft gray trim for a coordinated neutral effect.
There are many “right” options for choosing trim to go with purple walls. Trust your instincts on which shades feel most cohesive and aesthetically pleasing for your vision.
The Style of the Room
The overall decor style you want to achieve for the room should factor into your trim selection as well. Certain colors lend themselves better to particular aesthetics.
For modern, contemporary spaces – white is a standard trim choice to keep the look clean and crisp. Black trim can also create dramatic contrast against purple walls in modern rooms.
In farmhouse or cottage style rooms, creamy off-whites and light beiges work well for a cozy, welcoming vibe. For a more vintage eclectic feel, brown tones like grayish taupe complement purple without feeling too modern.
Think about the ambiance you want to create and choose hues that will enhance that style. The trim color is like an accent that completes the overall design of the space.
Test Trim Color Options
The easiest way to decide what trim color looks best with your specific purple wall color is to actually test out samples. There are a few simple ways to do this:
– Paint swatches of trim colors directly onto the walls near where trim will be installed, and view at different times of day.
– Purchase small sample size cans of paint in colors you’re considering and paint a small section of scrap wood or cardboard. Lean the samples against the wall to compare.
– Paint strips of white poster board or foam core with trim color samples and move them around the room to visualize.
– Use strips of white painter’s tape on the walls to create mock trim borders and get a feel for how the color contrast looks.
Taking the time to physically see potential trim colors next to the purple before fully committing to one will help ensure you make the best choice.
Common Trim Colors for Purple Walls
Some popular trim colors that look great with different shades of purple walls include:
| Purple Wall Color | Complementary Trim Colors |
|---|---|
| Pale Lilac | Cream, Light Gray, Ivory |
| Wisteria | Sage Green, Soft Yellow |
| Vivid Violet | Clean White, Black |
| Eggplant | Gold, Rust |
| Warm Mauve | Camel, Terracotta |
| Cool Lavender | Baby Blue, Light Taupe |
These popular color pairings highlight how the undertones of the purple set the foundation for choosing complementary trim shades.
Whole Room Color Harmony
Along with the trim, also consider how other elements in the room coordinate with the purple walls and chosen trim color. For a harmonious whole room palette:
– Upholstery, rugs, and accent decor should include some shades that are in the same tonal family as the trim.
– Having touches of the wall color in accessories helps tie everything together.
– Metallics like silver and brass often pair well with purple hues for an elegant feel.
– Repeat a color from the trim somewhere else in the space like on window treatments or throw pillows.
Tying the trim selection into the overall color scheme creates a curated, purposeful look. The trim color decision impacts the room as a whole and should enhance the overall design.
Conclusion
Choosing trim to match with purple walls should account for the specific shade of purple, the lighting, your color preferences, the room’s style, and harmony with other elements in the space. Testing potential colors is key to making the optimal decision. With the right trim that complements the purple walls, you can create a beautiful, cohesive room that reflects your aesthetic vision.