Trend: The Dark Side
Embrace the moody opulence of the latest interiors trend. Dark Academia. It’s the hottest interiors trend to hit for some time. Some may already be familiar with this moody, atmospheric look that calls to mind studious scholars poring over ancient tomes in dimly lit libraries. However, for the uninitiated we have broken it down to make it easy to see why so many tastemakers are embracing this rich, layered aesthetic.
We’re talking dark woods, leather-bound books, globes, maps, velvets, tweeds, plush rugs and leather club chairs. All of which you can find at car boot sales, flea markets and even Facebook Marketplace.
It’s a major departure from the all-white, ultra-minimalist interiors that have dominated over the last decade. Dark Academia rebels against the cold sterility of modernism and instead embraces a moody, enveloping atmosphere that feels both familiar and mysterious.
Nailing the dark academia look is all about the details…
Dark Academia Key Notes
Choose comfy seating for getting lost in a good book - thinking tufted leather armchairs, a statement velvet sofa or an oversized chesterfield
Bring in a vintage rug or soft throw blanket for cocooning yourself in style
Add warm metallic accents and dark florals
Accessorise with antique maps, stain-glassed lamps, gilded mirrors and drink decanters