Purple 'the paint colour of choice for 2010'

Paint brushes and paint rollers may be loaded up with purple in 2010, after one decorating expert claims it is currently the colour of choice for homeowners.

Speaking to the Financial Times, David Oliver, at the Paint & Paper Library, says purple as a paint colour can range from "soft lavender through to glossy aubergine and deep violet".

With the current condition of the property market meaning many people are deciding not to move, changing a paint scheme from traditional neutrals to purple could give a home a makeover while its occupants stay put.

Mr Oliver says stronger paint colours are often chosen to reflect people's personalities when they are not looking to move and can therefore tailor a property more to their tastes.

"Paint is a quick way to update an interior and keep it looking fresh," he adds.

Julia Goodwin, editor of House Beautiful magazine, recently asserted that grey - which is often seen as complementary to purple - is becoming an increasingly popular paint colour.

Posted by Owen Bardsley