The color mauve may bring back memories of dated 1980s interiors — floral upholstery, heavy carpets, and even fully coordinated bathrooms.
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But according to experts consulted by Homes & Gardens, mauve is making a strong comeback in 2026, now with a much more modern, sophisticated, and versatile proposal.
When applied with taste and combined with contemporary elements — such as warm-toned woods, minimalist lines, and updated palettes — mauve gains depth, mystery, and a discreet elegance that makes it perfect for both warm and cool environments.
Interior designers explain how to use the color to your advantage, from the best rooms to apply it in to the most current shades that transform a space’s visual impact.
Why is mauve trending?
“Mauve is a grayish lilac with a touch of pink that brings relaxed charm to any space,” explains Helen Shaw, color specialist at Benjamin Moore. “Its soft tone creates a serene and cozy atmosphere, especially suited for bedrooms.”
Helen recommends using the tone on walls combined with cool nuances for a harmonious look — such as pairings of lighter mauve, grays, and soft blues — or going for depth with antique pinks and nearly white ceilings for a traditional and elegant aesthetic.
5 ways to use mauve at home in 2026
1. Create a relaxing bedroom with mauve walls
While the most common tones for bedrooms tend to be warm whites, earthy colors, and soft greens, mauve is gaining ground as a new “chromatic calming agent.” Designer Jessica Bennett, from Alice Lane Interior Design, favors the Cougar Brown shade by Benjamin Moore, a neutral tone with mauve undertones used even on the ceiling to create a sense of coziness and romance.
Coordinated curtains and a vintage rug reinforce the soft palette without weighing down the space.
2. Choose a mauve sofa to add warmth to the living room
If the goal is to modernize the living room, swapping the sofa is one of the most impactful ways to bring mauve into the décor. In a neutral environment, a softly curved piece in a gentle mauve shade adds sophistication and naturally connects darker elements.
“This shade anchors the space with harmony,” says designer Jessica Reynaud. The composition also gains balance through pink marble details, creating a cohesive and refined look.
3. Use deeper mauve tones for elegant dining rooms
For those who prefer depth and elegance, darker mauve is ideal. Jess Ebert, from Four Story Interiors, highlights the Sulking Room Pink shade by Farrow & Ball — a deep mauve that evokes vintage style.
In the dining room, the shade creates a warm and sophisticated atmosphere with just the right amount of personality.
4. Pair mauve with soft greens for total harmony
Mauve and light green form one of the most elegant color pairings. As complementary shades, they balance softness and freshness.
Designer Alexandra Kaehler explains that treating mauve as a neutral is the key: “When combined with green, it adds softness without feeling overly feminine.” In the living room, the palette creates an organic, modern, and relaxing environment.
5. Use mauve to complement traditional décor
In homes with a classic aesthetic, mauve serves as a bridge between vintage and contemporary. Designer Michael Abrams highlights a powder room in a restored century-old house where mauve regains its historical popularity without losing modern charm.
Soft neutral tones complement the color, maintaining balance and honoring the original architecture.
Mauve in 2026: more versatile than ever
Whether on walls, furniture, or decorative details, mauve emerges as a new sophisticated neutral — capable of replacing traditional shades without losing delicacy or visual impact. When combined with dark woods, metallic finishes, and natural textures, the result is elegant, modern, and surprisingly inviting.
Source: Homes & Gardens. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
