Purple can bring a touch of calming amazement to your everyday life.

Do you know why rooms painted in purple feel so royal? Well, there's a reason for that lah! Purple has a history as rich and dramatic as a good plate of char kway teow, linked all the way back to kings and queens. Let's take a dip into that and see how this royal vibe colour can change your home decor.

The Royal Purple Story

Ever seen a tiny sea snail, living its best life in the clear waters of the Mediterranean? But wait, these weren't just any snails – they were like the wagyu beef of the mollusc world! Back in the 4th century BC, the clever Phoenicians figured out how to extract a special dye from these snails, creating a stunning purple colour. Here's the crazy part: it took a whopping 10,000 snails to make just one gram of this dye! No wonder only emperors and empresses could afford to wear clothes coloured with this precious purple. So, the next time you paint your room purple, you're basically channelling your inner king or queen – talk about serious high-SES vibes!

But the story doesn't end there. Because these rulers were seen as almost god-like figures, purple also came to represent spirituality. So, if you're ever feeling like you need a little extra power boost to tackle that mountain of work, or maybe want to create a calming space for meditation, a little purple paint might be just the thing!

The Many Moods of Purple

Just like how teh tarik can be made strong or mild, depending on your mood, different shades of purple can create different atmospheres in your home. A cool lavender, like the soft hue of the morning glory flower you see growing by the void deck, can create a sense of peace and relaxation, perfect for a bedroom. On the other hand, a bolder shade of violet, like the vibrant bougainvillaea climbing your neighbour's fence, can spark creativity and focus – perfect for a home office where you need those brainwaves flowing!

Your Purple Paradise Awaits!

Now that you know the power of purple, let's explore how you can add it to your very own home.

-Channel Your Inner Emperor:

Think you can't pull off a bold purple in your home? Think again! A deep, luxurious purple can create a seriously powerful and focused environment in your home office. Surround yourself with these rich tones, and feel like the emperor (or empress!) of your own domain, ready to conquer that next project or presentation.

-The Queen's Retreat:

Lighter shades of purple, like a delicate lilac, can turn your bedroom into a peaceful place. The exquisite feeling of sinking into a bed after a soak in a Bandung-coloured bath, surrounded by the soothing feel of your lilac reserve.

-Island Vibes with a Purple Twist:

Here's a tip: think about colour combinations! Just like how you wouldn't have your chicken rice without that splash of fiery chilli sauce, a touch of purple can add a surprising pop of colour that complements the natural beauty around. Consider leafy green plants standing out against a backdrop of lavender walls, or a cool, beachy blue paired with a touch of plum-coloured furniture.

For an extra dose of local inspiration, think of your favourite Singaporean treats! A vibrant magenta wall could be the perfect backdrop for displaying a collection of colourful Peranakan beaded baskets, or a soft lavender shade could echo the calming sweetness of Kuih Dadar.

-Beyond the Walls:

Painting your entire room purple might feel a tad too much for some. But fear not, there are plenty of ways to incorporate this regal colour into your home without going overboard. Think pops of purple through throw pillows, artwork, or even a statement armchair. You can even play with lighting to alter the feel of the room. Warm lighting can make a bold purple feel more inviting, while cool lighting can enhance the calming effect of lighter shades.

So, there you have it! From its royal history to its diverse range of moods, purple paint can be something that reflects your inner royalty, sparks creativity, or simply brings a touch of calming amazement to your everyday life.

Bonus Tip:

Feeling overwhelmed by all the options? Don't worry! Many paint stores offer sample pots, so you can try out different shades of purple in your own home before committing to a full paint job.

So, just with a little planning, you can paint your purple palace today!