An interior design trend taking TikTok by storm is Dark Academia. Lean into this aesthetic for moody interiors that blend past and present with richness and depth. Get the look with Gabby’s must-have guide to mastering this layered, atmospheric style.
1. Set the Stage. Begin with walls and ceilings painted in dramatic hues — deep blacks reminiscent of nineteenth-century cities, dark browns that echo the shelves of ancient libraries, or rich purples inspired by burgundy wine. Reimagine the walls of a country house library or a centuries-old school where cozy and Gothic sensibilities meet. Look to Old Master European paintings for inspiration when selecting classical, timeless colorways.
2. Embrace Literature. At the heart of Dark Academia is an undercurrent of poetry, classic novels, mystery, and romance. This look is maximalist, eclectic, and intentionally moody. Display your collection of books and magazines — old and new — as part of the décor. Let your shelves feel curated yet personal.
3. Showcase Your Collections. This academic aesthetic is perfectly suited for displaying treasured objects. Perhaps it’s time to begin collecting ceramics or found objects. Arrange shells, antique plates, vintage glassware, thrifted artwork, leather-bound books, and antique porcelain in thoughtful groupings that feel storied and layered.
Think poetry and the great classic novels — a sense of mystery, romance, and unknowing. The Dark Academia look is maximalist, eclectic, and moody.
4. Make Your Indoor Pillows Pop. Elevate this collegiate-inspired look with distinctly grown-up fabrics. Incorporate jewel tones like sapphire, burgundy, magenta, and deep orange in rich velvets. Add trims or tassels for an extra layer of refinement. The right pillow can instantly elevate the entire aesthetic.
5. Focus on Lighting. Lighting is essential in creating atmosphere. Choose lamps, chandeliers, and floor lamps that evoke warmth and intrigue. Look for fixtures that cast interesting shadows and feature unique silhouettes.
- Norton Chandelier: Strung with mango wood beads in a rich black finish, the Norton Chandelier delivers refined elegance reminiscent of Hollywood glamour. Its dense beaded profile creates a dramatic presence — even when unlit.
- Roderick Chandelier: Architectural in simplicity, the Roderick Chandelier features a mesmerizing brass form with antique-inspired candle bulbs, blending structure with timeless charm.
6. Mix in Antiques. Incorporating antique furniture and décor will instantly deepen the look. Gabby sources and curates vintage antique furniture, décor, books, and textiles from the South of France twice a year (add internal link here). A well-placed nineteenth-century carved mirror, for example, adds richness and depth to a sitting room.
7. Elevate Window Treatments. Choose treatments that diffuse natural light or cast interesting patterns across your furniture. Consider rattan blinds or plantation shutters in unexpected hues that complement your wall colors and highlight your furnishings.
8. Add Dramatic Accents. Complete the look with dried flowers and foliage, animal models, sculptural objects, or architectural antiques brought indoors. This is your opportunity to experiment boldly — perhaps with pampas grass in natural tones or soft blush — and allow your inner designer to take creative risks.