Ryan Matthew Cohn
The design trend of dark academia has risen in popularity in recent years. This vintage-inspired aesthetic combines a dark, moody backdrop with intricate details and a hint of gothic oddities. It exudes an intellectual vibe that is mysterious, nostalgic, and enriched with various collections. Imagine stepping into a long-forgotten study of a professor hidden within a gothic college campus. It’s a dark, enigmatic space that sparks curiosity. If you want to infuse your home with dark academia vibes, we’re here to offer some intellectually inspiring interior ideas.
Related: 24 Home Library Ideas for a Tranquil, Book-Filled Getaway
Incorporate Built-In Bookcases
Erika Bonnell Interiors / Stacy Zarin Goldberg
Books are essential in any academic-inspired setting, making built-in bookcases a must-have for the dark academia trend. Erika Bonnell, the owner and creative director of Erika Bonnell Interiors, mentions, “We designed this elegant library for our book-loving client, featuring custom built-ins to display his collection and a recycled newspaper wallpaper.”
Create a Dark Setting
Town & Country Design Studio / Tori Sikkema Photography
A dark backdrop is crucial for a dark academia space, with navy serving as a softer alternative to black. Combined with warm brass accents, the result is inviting yet mysterious. Ginny Padula, the founder of Town & Country Design Studio, describes a bespoke bar that exudes a rich, moody elegance perfect for the dark academia aesthetic.
Embrace Dark Hues
Town & Country Design Studio / Tori Sikkema Photography
Embrace a dark, velvety color scheme throughout the space, from the trim to the walls and bookcases. Layer different textures and colors to bring depth and mystery to the room. Padula notes, “This space feels like a serene retreat, enveloped in a velvety navy, grounding the area with depth and warmth.”
Include a Home Bar
Inspired Interiors
The dark academia aesthetic lends itself well to a home bar designed for leisurely discussions and contemplation. It’s a place where intellect and relaxation intersect. Emily Mackie, the principal designer at Inspired Interiors, transformed a basic library into a lounge for whiskey, scotch, and tequila tastings.
Incorporate Quirky Art
Inspired Interiors
Quirky art with gothic or vintage charm enhances the dark academia vibe. Install picture lights above the artwork to create a library-like atmosphere, a common theme in this moody aesthetic.
Incorporate Detailed Millwork
Old Soul Design Studio / Brian Wetzel
In a dark academia space, more is more when it comes to molding, millwork, trim, and architectural details. The goal is to make the room feel untouched for centuries, evoking the timeless allure of historic libraries and universities. Krystal Reinhard, the Founder and CEO of Old Soul Design Studio, describes a dark academia office
A designer at Old Soul Design Studio, Brian Wetzel, emphasizes the importance of keeping intellectual pursuits at the core of dark academia style in home design. Rooted in a sense of nostalgia and scholarly endeavors, this aesthetic includes a rich wood desk with gilded accents as the focal point of a room. To achieve the dark academia look, consider incorporating elements such as spalted maple work surfaces, patterned wallpapered ceilings, antique accents, warm lighting, and layered details that evoke a sense of history and introspection.
When curating a dark academia-inspired space, aim to vary textures by selecting objects and oddities that appear to have been collected over time. Books, pottery, and plates can add depth and visual interest with their different textures and colors. Drawing inspiration from European estates and British Victorian libraries, consider filling your home with rare and unusual antiques, such as natural history artifacts, 17th and 18th-century furniture, anatomical objects, paintings, sculptures, antiquarian books, and world globes.
To enhance the dark academia ambiance, incorporate a bookshelf ladder to create the illusion of a vast collection of books waiting to be explored. Layering prints and patterns in dark hues throughout the space can contribute to the aesthetic, while adding a touch of glam with gold accents and nature-inspired motifs can elevate the overall design. Vintage elements like an antique marble mantel, a wood four-poster bed, and a burl wood chest can further enhance the dark academia look in a bedroom.
For more inspiration on how to bring the Parisian design trend into your home and to explore the quiet luxury of home design that whispers elegance, refer to the original article on Martha Stewart.
