The Dark Academia aesthetic is a nod to vintage designs inspired by old libraries, literary movements, and historical Gothic architecture. Its darker colour palette, decorative features, and stunning literary motifs from the 18th and 19th centuries make this design choice a uniquely cosy favourite among homeowners and designers alike.
Modern and contemporary homes, on the other hand, have elements of space, light, and warmth. Big bay windows, varying combinations of materials like wood and stone, and warm, soft tones on walls and trimming make a room feel large and serene. The natural light and organic flow of lines and shapes within a space add a tranquil touch that really brightens a home.
But can dark academia’s seemingly lush room design complement a modern home’s light and airy features?
Yes! You can easily achieve a beautiful, brooding and inviting balance by creating a contrast of light and dark themes and coordinating your favourite aspects of both aesthetics.
Look For Inspiration To Decide On What Dark Academia Elements To Include
Research what aspects of dark academia design you would like to add to your space. Imagine the space as your very own personalised corner of a stunning historic library, where you can read and relish in serenity at the end of a long day. Unsure of what that looks like? Try researching beautiful historic libraries from around the world, noting your favourite elements of their design and architecture to draw some inspiration.
Considering the elements of this theme you want to embody in your space can set the foundation for the rest of your design.
Choose Colors With Equally Bold and Soft Hues
The contemporary colour palette may seem vastly different from the gothic hues of a Dark Academia colour scheme, but they are similarly muted in tone and coordinate nicely. Muted colours have a soft touch of grey to subdue and darken their hue. This complements perfectly the deeper colours of Dark Academia, like midnight blues, olive greens, and mustard yellows.
Consider the combination of soft grey duvet covers in a master bedroom, with deep mahogany floorboards and a striking navy accent wall. These features harmonise beautifully for a relaxing and serene bedroom space.
Accent walls are one of many ways to incorporate these rich colours. Perhaps you could choose to keep all walls in your room a simple, warm sandy brown, and by painting your ceiling a dark berry purple, you create a luxuriant atmosphere that is a stunning backdrop for some vintage paintings.
Alternate Furniture Shapes, Sizes, And Textures
Do you like the clean, geometric shapes of the modern aesthetic? Why not alternate between crisp lines and ornate fixtures around your space?
Choose curved couches with a suede finish rather than leather. Use a refurbished coffee table from a local antique store and add sharp, boxy metal ornaments alongside old books and scented candles.
For a uniquely practical addition to a living space, consider a decorative radiator like this Paladin Montpellier cast iron radiator offered by Trade Radiators. Its energy-efficient and ornate vintage design adds a subtly dark charm to any room.
Get Innovative With Accessories And Accents
Try simple neutral-toned furniture pieces with bold accessories, like a deep emerald throw on a light beige loveseat. Experiment with copper or brass light fixtures or unique accent wall colours that are both romantic and alluring. Finish with ceiling-high bookshelves or decorative dark curtains to make your living room reminiscent of a Victorian private study.
Consider using a gorgeous antique industrial light fixture in the centre of your living area. The combination of textures and materials nods to the modern principles while providing a warm glow that sets the mood of a darker space.
Let Your Curiosity And Creativity Take The Lead
By combining the spacious, natural foundations of modern design with the richness of Dark Academia’s aesthetic, you can enjoy a uniquely gorgeous space. These guidelines can help you or your interior designer determine the perfect look for your home.
Love decorating with dark colours? Check out our other post on creating moody hues that dazzle.
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