Dark Academia style is a recently popped-up trend in interior design. It is not just about decoration but conveys a whole lifestyle: finally, the classic literacy, desire of knowledge, love of literature and science are again in the spotlight. It draws heavily on Gothic and Victorian styles, but at the same time strives to create a sense of coziness and comfort.
The most important characteristic of Dark Academia style is the color palette. Almost any rich, deep shade work well with it, creating a comfortable, contemplative atmosphere. Tha base colors can be: forest green, chocolate brown, burgundy, navy blue, charcoal, deep purple and of course, black. These are balanced by a bit lighter but elegant colors of the accessories: gold, cream, deep amber, dark red. The key is the balance between these.
The most effective way creating the style in a living space is using wallpaper. Classic patterns will be the good choices in this case also: damask, woven patterns (e.g. linen-imitation), toile, striped. The tone-on-tone effect is important, so the base color is dark and the pattern is a slightly lighter shade, maybe with a metallic effect.
Let’s think about an old library or an office of a professor while furnishing a room. The most important furniture of the style are: bookshelves or bookcases, leather armchair, vintage wooden desk, bed with dark wood or black wrought iron-like headboard, buttoned upholstered chair and ottoman, (fake)fireplace.
Wall pictures are the basic elements of decoration. The theme can be various: old maps and celestial maps, botanical and anatomical prints, architectural drawings and engravings or reproductions of oil paintings (Renaissance, Baroque, Victorian) with proper subjects.
There is also a wide selection of other decorative elements, but the most important of these are books, in all quantities. Fill the shelves with volumes, their rows can be broken by other decorative objects. Other empty surfaces (tables, shelves, windowsill, mantel) can be decorated by objects that exude classic atmosphere. If the budget allows, use original vintage pieces. Copy of any ancient Greek or Roman marble statue, old scientific instruments (e.g. sextant, telescope, typewriter, globe) are suitable, and many candle-holders.
Candlelight will provide the basis for additional lighting. The light sources should be dimmable, as mood lighting suits this style best. Classic bronze is the good choice for light fittings, maybe with few chrystal decoration.
The textiles used exude warmth and luxury, such as velvet and wool. The pattern is sparse, restrained, creating a layered effect (herringbone, pinstripes, tartan). The mood is completed by heavy, rich curtains and drapery, Persian style carpet, thick blankets and cushions.
If you like plants in your home, choose only plants with decorative leaves and dark green shades (e.g. ferns, ivy, palms).
Ask for help of an interior designer creating the Dark Academia style in your home.