The Soothing Paint Color Everyone’s Adding To Their Homes In 2025, According To Designers
We have been working all summer while humming a little “lavender haze” and our work table has been full of lovely lavender and purple shades, so we couldn’t believe how timely this interview for Southern Living came along. Color trends are shifting—and lavender is quietly taking center stage. Once reserved for children’s rooms or cottage-core aesthetics, this dreamy hue is being reimagined in sophisticated, wellness-centered spaces. At Shine, we’re excited to see this soft shade getting the attention it deserves.
By Lauren Jones
Published on June 14, 2025
After years of crisp neutrals and pared-back aesthetics, there’s a renewed boldness when it comes to colorful interiors, one that feels equal parts playful and polished. Like butter yellow and robin’s egg blue, lavender is finally back in the spotlight, and designers couldn’t be happier. The shade brings a quiet elegance to any room, a hint of whimsy, and a reputation for serenity thanks to its namesake plant. Whether used on walls, upholstery, or as a subtle accent, lavender adds just the right hint of color.
So, why the sudden surge in popularity? While lavender has been seen in the fashion and beauty spaces for years, designers are finally ready to embrace its versatility. Think of it as a soft neutral but with just enough personality to make a space feel both curated and contemporary.
Curious how to use lavender in your own home? Here’s what designers have to say about this dreamy hue.
Adding Lavender To Your Home in 2025
In the era of color-drenching, it’s no surprise that painterly pastels like lavender are having a moment. While earth tones and rich, moody hues are still in style, it’s definitely one to watch out for. For Dallas-based designer Sarah Hargrave, lavender is having a “well-deserved” resurgence. “It strikes a beautiful balance between softness and sophistication, offering a fresh alternative to neutrals while still feeling serene,” she says. “People are craving color that feels uplifting but not overwhelming."
Designers view lavender’s revival as part of an overall return to color. “After years of minimalism, we’re seeing a renewed boldness in how people use color to express style,” says Austin-based designer Audrey Scheck. “Lavender adds that color while still reading like a subtle neutral.”
Austin-based designer Tricia Hassenfeld of Hell Yes Interiors says lavender is one of her go-to colors—even when clients need convincing. “[It’s a color] that will freak a client out if I say, ‘let's complement this in lavender’ because they associate it with a kids' room,” she says. “But lavender can pop against a bright white and add the playful touch a space needs to not be so serious.”
Best Color Pairings for Lavender
Creams and Wood Tones
Lavender’s soft undertones make it an ideal companion to natural textures and grounded hues. “Lavender pairs beautifully with olive green, warm woods, dusty ochres, and antique brass—colors and materials that add warmth and depth to its otherwise cool undertone,” says designer Rachel Blindauer.
For Erica McLain, former Olympian turned biophilic design expert, lavender pairs wonderfully with tactile materials like raw linen, stone, or softly grained wood. “And for a layered, harmonious palette, complement lavender with warm whites, cool greys, blush tones, or muted greens,” she says.
Greens
Natalie Biles and Stacey Breezeel, co-founders of Shine Interior Design Studio, also suggest looking to the color wheel and trying out lavender with golden yellow or soft olive. “These pairings can elevate almost any space, from living rooms to bedrooms without feeling overpowering,” they say.
For Houston-based designer Courtnay Tartt Elias, lavender offers a natural, organic feel when paired with other sweet shades. “I adore the combination of lilac and celery. In fact, I often turn to lavender or the lilac-celery combination when a client doesn’t want to use pink!”
Bold, Rich Colors
For the adventurous client, Hassenfeld recommends leaning into lavender’s unexpected edge. “It can be a soothing neutral when used as a base for more traditionally sophisticated colors,” she says. “Think: a maroon headboard, an emerald fireplace, or deep, rock-n-roll purple velvet drapery. The trick is the balance. That’s where the magic is.”
Best Rooms to Decorate with Lavender
Bedrooms
“Lavender can be so calming and almost ethereal,” says designer Virginia Wyatt. “It’s great to use in bedrooms because it evokes feelings of relaxation. Natural bedding with lavender embroidery or neutral drapery with a lavender trim are subtle ways to bring the color in.”
Living Rooms and Formal Spaces
Designers are using lavender to soften more formal spaces without stripping them of elegance. “A lovely way to incorporate lavender is to let it shine as the main accent. Think painted cabinetry, velvet upholstery, or even a statement ceiling. For a subtler touch, layer it in with textiles like drapery or throw pillows,” says Hargrave.
Not ready to commit to all lavender walls? “Try a lavender throw, subtly patterned pillows, or a ceramic piece,” says designer Christina Kelley. “It’s a low-stakes way to nod to the trend.”
Want to give lavender a try? Book your Design Strategy Session and we’ll get a plan together to bring it into your project!