Lilac and Lavender Paint Colours

Lilac is having a real moment in interior design — and it’s easy to see why. This soft, soothing shade sits beautifully between purple and grey, offering a sense of calm while adding a subtle splash of colour. Whether you’re after a fresh update or planning a full transformation, lilac paint can breathe new life into your space without overwhelming it.

One of lilac’s greatest strengths is its versatility. Lighter lilacs with grey or blue undertones work wonderfully in bedrooms and living rooms, creating a peaceful, airy feel. These shades are perfect if you want something a little more interesting than plain white or beige, but still light enough to keep your space feeling open and relaxed. Pair with soft neutrals, natural woods, and lots of texture for a cosy, layered look.

For a bolder style statement, deeper lilacs and lavender hues add a more dramatic twist. These richer shades work well on feature walls or in smaller spaces like cloakrooms, where they can really shine. Lilac also complements a variety of colour palettes — think sage green, dusty pink, or warm taupes — making it a surprisingly flexible choice for both modern and traditional interiors.

In nurseries or children’s rooms, lilac brings a playful yet calming energy. It feels fresh and gentle without being too sugary or overly “girly,” especially when styled with clean lines and minimalist accessories. Don’t overlook the power of paint finishes, either. A matte lilac adds softness and sophistication, while a satin or eggshell finish can enhance natural light and add a subtle sheen, perfect for brightening up smaller rooms.

Whether you're drawn to lilac for its calming qualities or its quiet charm, it’s a colour that brings personality without shouting. So, if you’re ready to step away from neutrals and try something a little different, lilac might just be the perfect shade to try in your next home project. Always test paint colours with sample pots in your chosen space to observe them at different times of the day. The way natural and artificial light interact with the shade will determine whether it’s the right fit for your space.

Popular Lilac Paint Colours

Dulux Heritage Lavender Grey

Paint and Paper Library Marble IV

Johnstone's Trade Jam Session

Benjamin Moore French Lilac

Colours To Pair With Lilacs

Off Whites

A classic combination, adding an off-white to woodwork, doors and trim is a simple but popular way to go. Steer clear of the stark whites like Pure Brilliant White which can tend to look blue or grey beside lilacs and bring out their cooler tones, but instead opt for warmer white colours.

Dark Indigo Blues

Pairing lilac shades with rich shades of blue, navy and indigo is a timeless choice. Benjamin Moore suggest Dreamy Cloud paired with Hudson Bay and Morning Light. Try using the 3 colour rule, 60% your main colour like Dreamy Cloud with 20% an accent colour like Hudson Bay and 20% a trim colour for woodwork and doors like Morning Light.

Pink

Lilac pairs well with soft pinks and creamy tones. Adding a hint of pink will create a gentle contrast, adding a touch of millennial style without overwhelming your space or feeling too cliche. If you're unsure about adding pinks, start off slowly with soft furnishings like curtains or cushions and go from there. If you're feeling more bold, paint a small piece of furniture and add little accents around the room to bring the colour in.

Sage Greens

Lilac and sage green make a beautifully balanced pairing in interiors, blending soft warmth with natural calm. The muted purple tones of lilac bring a gentle elegance, while sage green adds an earthy freshness that grounds the space. Together, they create a harmonious, restful palette that's ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, or even kitchens. Add natural textures like wood or rattan for a relaxed, contemporary finish.