Do you love the moody charm of old libraries or the warm glow of candlelit spaces? If this sounds like you, then dark academia decor might be the perfect aesthetic for your home. Here are a few dark academia decor ideas to help you get started:
What is Dark Academia Decor?
Dark academia has become a popular home interior aesthetic. This decor trend focuses on a dark color palette, antique accents, and plenty of greenery. Dark academia also tends to mimic the aesthetic of old libraries full of books. You’ll also find plenty of rich, natural materials as well as plenty of cozy textiles.
Thus, the decor trend is ideal for areas of your home where you want the cozy and moody charm of old universities’ architecture and design, especially their libraries. This aesthetic would be perfect for a home office, living room, home library, or even a bedroom.
5 Dark Academia Decor Ideas
If you think this is a trend you would like to try, here are a few dark academia decor ideas to consider:
1. Add Some Vibrancy with Red and Purple Hues
Traditional dark academia relies on browns, blacks, and cool colors like dark blues and greens. However, adding a few warmer colors adds an interesting spin and can create a sophisticated look. Colors like deep purple, muted pink, and maroon stay true to the moody aesthetic but add some sultry touches.
Add these vibrant colors with various accessories. A wine-red throw blanket paired with a mahogany couch marries the academia decor with bold touches. You could also try plum-colored curtains for a twist on navy or black. Using these bolder colors as accents is a helpful tip for decorating with bold colors because you can switch it up a little more easily if something isn’t working or you want a change.
2. Layer Textures and Textiles
Cozy and luxurious textiles are another hallmark of dark academic decor. This is also a fairly easy way to add some dark academia touches if you’re not ready to commit to the whole aesthetic. Don’t shy away from layering different textures because it will create more visual contrast and extra coziness.
Look to old university libraries to find inspiration for textures. Natural wood, leather, and wool are popular textures. Window treatments are often made of sweeping velvet or brocade, adding some luxury and warmth to any room. Popular flooring options like hardwood or stone flooring can be cold but layering rugs will soften the room.
3. Include Some Greenery
You might not immediately associate greenery with old libraries, but decorating with houseplants is a great way to give your room a touch of contrast. Greenery tends to play well with other dark academia decor. It pops against dark walls and integrates nicely with leather and dark wood furniture.
Choose leafy green plants with creeping vines, much like vines found crawling up the outside walls of old buildings. These vines can be intertwined around antique photo frames, or centered on a gallery wall. For biophilic design with a fairytale touch, try displaying plants in terrariums or a glass cloche.
4. Incorporate Antiques
Old universities often feature dark and rich wood like mahogany, cherry, or walnut. These wood pieces often are dramatic and have intricate designs. Most modern furniture doesn’t reflect this style so you are probably going to have more luck finding vintage furniture at antique shops.
For other decor accents, look for pieces in finishes like brass, gold, or brushed chrome. These metals will give your space some contrast and visual interest. A gold or brass chandelier or gilded mirror are not just great dark academia touches but are great gothic home decor ideas, too.
5. Focus on Soft Lighting
Lighting is an important aspect of any decor style and for dark academia, you’ll want to stick to low light most of the time. The dark academia aesthetic is at its peak when lit up with a soft and warm glow. The easiest way to achieve the right level of light is to layer your lighting.
This home lighting trend is popular because multiple sources of light give you the right light for any mood. This is very practical because even if you prefer low lighting for a dark academia decor style, you will still have options for more light in unexpected situations.
Opt for dim light for a warm glow. Warm-toned bulbs will give any room a soft and flattering glow. Seating and reading areas will especially benefit from this inviting soft lighting. Small table lamps and sconces will give your space that old library touch. Plus, they are the perfect lighting choice for any reading nook.
These are just a few dark academia decor ideas to try in your home. If you’re ready to begin planning and designing your own custom home, contact Custom Home Group at 717-284-4090. We can help bring your dream home to life!
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