How to Decorate Dark Academia
The Dark Academia aesthetic has captivated many with its blend of gothic and classical elements, creating an atmosphere that feels both intellectually stimulating and mysteriously foreboding.
Rooted in literature, history, and a deep appreciation for knowledge, this theme offers a unique way to infuse your living space with an air of old-world charm and scholarly sophistication.
Decorating in the Dark Academia style involves incorporating rich textures, a moody color palette, and an array of vintage or antique items that tell a story of bygone eras.
This guide on how to decorate dark academia aims to unravel the secrets behind this intriguing aesthetic, offering insights and tips on how to transform your space into a haven that would not look out of place in a Victorian-era library or a cozy corner of an ancient university.
What is Dark Academia?
Dark Academia is a subculture and aesthetic that celebrates the pursuit of knowledge, scholarly pursuits, and a love for all things related to literature, history, and the arts. It embraces a darker color palette, often featuring deep shades of burgundy, forest green, navy blue or black. This aesthetic also incorporates rich textures such as velvet, leather, wood, and metal to create a sense of luxury and elegance.
The term “Dark Academia” was coined on social media platforms like Tumblr and Instagram, where users began sharing photos of their book collections, cozy study spaces, and vintage-inspired outfits. It has since gained a cult following among young adults who are drawn to its romanticized image of academia.
Why Decorate in Dark Academia?
Decorating in the Dark Academia style offers a way to escape from the fast-paced, modern world and immerse oneself in a more contemplative and intellectual atmosphere. It promotes a love for reading, writing, and learning while also providing an opportunity to showcase personal interests and curiosities through decor.
This aesthetic also allows for a mix of old and new elements, making it a budget-friendly option for those who enjoy thrifting or repurposing items. Additionally, decorating in Dark Academia can create a sense of comfort and coziness, perfect for those long study sessions or moments of relaxation.
Needed Materials
To achieve the Dark Academia look, you will need a few key materials:
Rich Textures:
As mentioned earlier, incorporating velvet, leather, wood, and metal into your decor can add depth and luxury to your space. Look for items such as vintage leather armchairs, wooden bookcases, or brass candlesticks. You can also add texture through textiles like throw pillows, blankets, and curtains.
Dark Color Palette:
Opt for deeper shades of colors such as navy blue, forest green, burgundy or black. These colors create a moody and mysterious atmosphere that is characteristic of the Dark Academia aesthetic. The key is to balance these darker shades with lighter tones like cream or white to avoid a somber and heavy feel.
Vintage/Antique Items:
The Dark Academia aesthetic celebrates the charm of old-world items, so incorporating vintage or antique pieces into your decor is essential. Look for items such as typewriters, globes, classical busts, or old books with worn covers to add a sense of history and nostalgia to your space.
10 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Decorate Dark Academia
Step 1: Prepare Your Space
Before you begin decorating, make sure to declutter and clean your space. This will create a blank canvas for you to work with and allow you to see what items you already have that can fit into the Dark Academia aesthetic. You can also use this opportunity to rearrange furniture or add new shelves for your growing book collection. It’s also helpful to have a clear idea of the overall look you want to achieve.
If you’re starting from scratch, keep in mind that Dark Academia is all about creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere, so choose a room with ample natural light and enough space for comfortable seating.
Step 2: Choose a Color Scheme
As mentioned earlier, the Dark Academia aesthetic makes use of a darker color palette. Choose 2-3 main colors and complement them with lighter shades to add contrast and balance. The key is to create a cohesive color scheme that ties the different elements in your space together. It’s also worth considering the colors of your existing furniture and decor to see how they can fit into the color scheme.
You can also use accent colors sparingly to add pops of color and interest. But remember to stick to the overall theme and avoid using too many bright or bold colors.
Step 3: Incorporate Rich Textures
Now is the time to bring in those velvet, leather, wood, and metal items. You can start by adding a statement piece such as a velvet accent chair or a leather couch. You can also add texture through smaller items like throw pillows, rugs, and curtains.
But be careful not to overdo it; too many textures can make a room feel cluttered and overwhelming. Heavily textured items should be balanced with smoother finishes to create a harmonious look.
The key is to mix and match textures, but make sure they complement each other. For example, a leather couch can pair well with a velvet armchair, and both can be balanced by a smooth wooden coffee table.
Step 4: Add Vintage/Antique Items
Look for items with a story or history behind them. They don’t have to be expensive; you can find unique pieces at flea markets, thrift stores, or even in your grandparents’ attic. This is where you can get creative and think outside the box.
For example, a stack of old books can serve as a makeshift side table, or a vintage globe can add interest to your bookshelf. It’s all about incorporating items that spark curiosity and create a sense of nostalgia.
You can also add vintage-inspired items such as a record player or a typewriter, which not only fit the aesthetic but also serve as functional decor.
Step 5: Incorporate Plants
Plants not only add a touch of greenery and life to your space but also bring in natural textures. Consider adding plants such as pothos, ferns, or succulents that are low maintenance and can thrive in different lighting conditions. You can also display them in unique pots or vases to add to the overall aesthetic. You can also opt for dried flowers or preserved arrangements to add a vintage touch.
It’s important to note that plants require regular care and maintenance, so make sure you’re able to provide them with the necessary attention before adding them to your space.
Step 6: Add Artwork
Artwork is a great way to express your personal interests and add visual interest to your space. Look for prints of famous paintings and vintage illustrations, or even create your own paintings or sketches to display. You can also frame pages from old books or poems that hold special meaning to you. It’s all about finding pieces that speak to you and add to the overall aesthetic. But be mindful not to overcrowd your walls; less is more in this case.
It’s also worth considering the frames; opt for vintage or ornate frames to add to the old-world charm of Dark Academia. The frames can also tie in with the color scheme and textures of your space.
Step 7: Display Your Book Collection
One of the hallmarks of Dark Academia is a love for literature and books. Showcase your book collection by arranging them on shelves, stacking them on coffee tables, or using them as decor accents. You can also opt for vintage or leather-bound editions to add to the aesthetic. Don’t worry about organizing them perfectly; a slightly disheveled look can add to the overall charm.
But don’t limit yourself to just books; you can also display vintage or antique items alongside your book collection for added interest. You can also add a cozy reading nook with a comfortable chair and good lighting for those long hours spent lost in a book.
Step 8: Layer Textiles
Layering throw pillows, blankets, and curtains not only adds texture but also creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Mix and match different patterns and textures to create an eclectic look that fits the Dark Academia aesthetic.
You can also add a tapestry or rug to add depth and warmth to your space. The key is to balance different textures and create a cohesive look. You can also change up the textiles with the seasons to add variety.
It’s important to note that while layering can add interest, be careful not to go overboard and make the space feel cluttered. Stick to 2-3 main textiles and mix in smaller accents for balance.
Step 10: Personalize Your Space
Don’t be afraid to add personal touches that reflect your interests and personality. This could be in the form of framed photos, trinkets from travels, or even unique items you’ve collected over the years. It’s these personal touches that make your space truly yours and add character to the Dark Academia aesthetic.
Remember, at its core, Dark Academia is about embracing knowledge, creativity, and individuality. So embrace your own unique style and make your space a reflection of who you are.
Following these steps on how to decorate dark academia will help you create a Dark Academia-inspired space that is both stylish and functional. So, put on some classical music, brew a cup of tea, and get ready to transform your space into a cozy haven perfect for indulging in literature, art, and intellectual pursuits. Happy decorating!
Decorating Tips
Now that you have the materials, here are some tips on how to bring the Dark Academia aesthetic into your living space:
- Create a cozy reading nook by placing an armchair next to a bookcase filled with your favorite books. Add a throw pillow and a vintage lamp for the perfect spot to curl up with a good book.
- Mix and match different textures, patterns, and materials. Don’t be afraid to layer textiles or combine old and new items to create an eclectic look.
- Look for vintage or antique items at thrift stores, flea markets, or online marketplaces. These unique pieces will add character and charm to your space.
- Incorporate plants to add natural textures and a touch of greenery. Opt for low-maintenance plants or preserved arrangements if you’re not able to provide regular care.
- Experiment with different lighting options, such as string lights or vintage lamps, to create a warm and cozy ambiance.
- Don’t be afraid to display your personal interests and hobbies through artwork or decor items. This will add a personal touch and make your space truly unique.
- Remember to balance clutter with organization. It’s important to have a cozy and lived-in feel, but also avoid overwhelming the space with too many items.
- Most importantly, have fun and let your creativity flow! The Dark Academia aesthetic is all about embracing intellectual pursuits and individuality, so do what feels right to you and make your space a reflection of your own interests and personality.
How Much Could It Cost?
The cost of decorating a Dark Academia-inspired space will vary depending on your personal style, budget, and the items you choose to incorporate. Here are some estimated costs for key elements:
- Classic furniture pieces such as armchairs or bookshelves can range from $100-$500.
- Vintage or antique items can range from $20-$200 depending on their rarity and condition.
- Textiles such as throw pillows, blankets, and curtains can range from $10-$50 each.
- Artwork can range from affordable prints at $30-$50 to more expensive pieces at $100+.
- Plants and preserved arrangements can range from $10-$50, depending on the type and size.
- Lighting options such as string lights or vintage lamps can range from $10-$100.
- Personalized decor items or trinkets can vary depending on their uniqueness and origin.
The overall cost of decorating a Dark Academia-inspired space will also depend on the size of your space and how many rooms you choose to decorate. It’s important to set a budget and prioritize key elements that are most important to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I Decorate My Space in the Dark Academia Aesthetic if I Don’t Have a Lot of Money to Spend?
A: Yes, you can! Look for budget-friendly options at flea markets or thrift stores and get creative with DIY projects. Remember, Dark Academia is all about embracing creativity and individuality.
It doesn’t have to be expensive. The key is to find unique pieces that tell a story or have a nostalgic feel. You can also incorporate items you already own, such as old books or personal trinkets, to add to the aesthetic.
Q: How Do I Avoid Making My Space Look Too Cluttered?
A: Stick to a cohesive color scheme and balance different textures. Also, try not to overcrowd your space with too many decorative items.
Less is more in this case. It’s better to have a few impactful pieces rather than many small ones that can make the space look cluttered and overwhelming.
Q: Can I Incorporate Modern Elements into My Dark Academia Space?
A: Absolutely! Dark Academia is all about mixing old and new elements. You can add modern touches such as a sleek desk or industrial-style lighting to contrast with the vintage and antique pieces. It’s all about finding a balance and making the space feel personal to you.
Q: Can I Use Bright Colors in My Dark Academia Decor?
A: While Dark Academia is known for its muted, earthy color palette, that doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate pops of color. Just make sure they complement the overall aesthetic and don’t overpower the space.
For example, you can add a statement piece like a red velvet armchair or incorporate small accents of color through artwork or textiles. Remember, it’s all about finding a balance and making the space feel personal to you. So don’t be afraid to experiment and make your Dark Academia-inspired space truly unique!
Conclusion
Venturing into the world of Dark Academia decor offers a unique opportunity to blend the rich textures of history with personal style, creating a space that’s both intellectually stimulating and intimately personal.
By carefully selecting vintage items that tell a story, layering textiles for warmth and depth, and incorporating elements that reflect personal interests and experiences, you can forge a living space that not only embodies the Dark Academia aesthetic but also serves as a sanctuary for thought, creativity, and learning.
Remember, the key to a successful Dark Academia space lies not just in the items you choose but in how those pieces make you feel – inspired, curious, and connected to the vast tapestry of human knowledge and experience.
Happy decorating, and may your space be a testament to the timeless allure of learning and the beauty of the Dark Academia aesthetic. Thanks for reading this article on how to decorate dark academia.
Angela Ervin
Angela is the executive editor of DIY quickly. She began her career as an interior designer before applying her strategic and creative passion to lifestyle and home. She has close to 15 years of experience in creative writing and online content strategy for housekeeping, home decorations as well as other niche efforts. She loves her job and has the privilege of working with an extraordinary team. She lives with her husband, two sons, and daughter in Petersburg. When she's not busy working she spent time with her family.
