The Dark Academia style draws inspiration from traditional scholarly settings and the moody, romantic atmosphere of Gothic literature. It’s all about creating a space that feels like a vintage library or study, with plenty of old books, antique furniture, and deep, rich colours.
If you’re interested in bringing this trend into your own home, there are a few key elements to keep in mind. Here are some tips on how to create a Dark Academia home style that’s both stylish and practical.
Start with a neutral colour palette.
While Dark Academia is all about deep, rich colours, it’s important to start with a neutral foundation. This will allow you to layer on darker tones without overwhelming the space. Consider painting your walls a soft, warm white or light grey, and choose neutral-toned flooring.
Incorporate vintage or antique pieces.
One of the key elements of Dark Academia style is the use of vintage or antique furniture and accessories. Look for pieces with classic lines and traditional materials, such as leather, wood, and brass. This might include a leather armchair, a vintage writing desk, or an antique bookcase. These pieces will help create a sense of history and depth in your space.
Add plenty of books and artwork.
No Dark Academia room is complete without plenty of books and artwork. This might mean creating a built-in bookcase, or simply stacking books on tables and shelves throughout the room. Look for old, leather-bound volumes, and consider incorporating vintage maps or botanical prints as well as portrait style artwork.
Choose moody colours and textures.
Once you have your neutral foundation in place, it’s time to add some depth and drama to your space. Choose rich, moody colours like deep green, burgundy, and navy for your furniture and accessories. You might also incorporate texture with cosy wool blankets, velvet pillows, or a Persian rug.
Use lighting to set the mood.
Lighting is an important element of any interior design scheme, but it’s especially crucial in a Dark Academia space. Look for vintage-inspired lamps, reading lights and sconces with warm, soft light. Consider adding a dimmer switch to your overhead lighting to create a more intimate atmosphere.
Don’t forget about functionality.
While Dark Academia style is all about creating a moody, romantic atmosphere, it’s important to remember that your space still needs to be functional. Make sure you have plenty of storage for books, papers, and other materials, and choose furniture that’s comfortable and practical for your needs. You might also consider adding a small desk or reading nook to your space.
Add personal touches.
Finally, don’t forget to add personal touches to your Dark Academia space. This might mean incorporating family photos, displaying a collection of vintage cameras or an antique typewriter, or adding artwork that has special meaning to you. The key is to create a space that feels personal and inviting, while still staying true to the Dark Academia aesthetic.
Dark Academia is a trend that’s all about creating a moody, romantic atmosphere inspired by traditional scholarly settings. To incorporate this style into your own home, start with a neutral colour palette, incorporate vintage or antique pieces, and add plenty of books, artwork and statement antique pieces. Use velvet and wool in your soft furnishings will add a cosy feel and use lighting to set the mood. Don’t forget about functionality, add plenty of storage and personal effects. With these tips, you can create a Dark Academia home style that’s both stylish and practical.
