5 billion. This is the number of views the hashtag #darkacademia currently has on TikTok (i.e. at the time of publication). For the past two years, a gothic, moody aesthetic trend has been slow-cooking and smoldering in the shadow of Barbiecore. But now that fall is in full view, it's at a noticeable boil and poised for an imminent takeover. In fact, Bathroom Deal's data research revealed that Google searches for “Dark Academia” for him have spiked by more than 20% in the past month, with the term being searched approximately 60,000 times each month. And while fashion has already fully embraced this trend (as evidenced by this year's recent runways), the home decor field seems to be jumping on the bandwagon just now. So if you're looking to refresh your space for the cooler months ahead, a dark academia touch could be perfect.
“As the name suggests, the Dark Academia aesthetic is traditionally characterized by deep, moody, shadowy colors,” says Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Toronto-based wallpaper brand Fine & Dandy. says Carla Morano. There is some boldness, for example, by applying these shades to the walls with a striking wallpaper rich in color and pattern. ”
Morano recommends that deep damask or muddy toiles work well with this trend. Or a gorgeous landscape mural, like Fine & Dandy's Babylon wallpaper, “similar to something like a rich Belgian tapestry or our Vapor – Storm mural,” she says. She instantly creates unique, dramatic and elevated spaces. ”
Los Angeles-based interior designer David Samuel Coe, head of Studio Maison Coe, agrees that the best way to tackle a dark, academic look is to start with the walls. “You'll want to paint your space in dark shades to match what you're leaning into,” he tells TZR, adding that colors like plum, burgundy, charcoal, his gray, walnut brown, and of course black It lists important colors. From there, “you can also adjust the lighting to only use lamps and decorative fixtures instead of overhead.”
In addition to a cool, sophisticated feel, dark, dimly lit rooms make for a good space to sleep, and this aesthetic is ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms, says Warren Kinloch, bathroom interiors expert at Bathroom Deal. says. “These dark colors create a unique atmosphere that can actually relax you after a long day,” he tells TZR. “The relationship between darkness and nighttime can contribute to a healthier nighttime routine and set the stage for a restful night's sleep.”
When it comes to furniture, rich dark woods and leathers, antique gold and copper finishes, and Baroque-style pieces help create that vibe. If you feel like it's a little too off-brand for your space, you can always incorporate the trend in a more subtle way. “Putting your art or prints in antique, ornate frames is another way to incorporate this look without going all-in,” says Koh. “You can easily achieve a dark academia style by combining cushions and blankets in richer fabrics (velvet, corduroy, checked wool, etc.).”
Okay, the cold season lends itself well to a melancholy, spooky aesthetic like this, but what if you want it to work year-round? Ko assures you it's possible, but… It is important to choose a wall color that is not too seasonal and avoid it. “Also, bringing a space to life with personal touches, books, and other memorabilia makes the space feel more alive and less about the current trends you're into.” he reasons. “While now isn't necessarily the time to be neutral, you definitely don't want your space to feel like a big Halloween decoration, so this gothic, moody style balances elements that feel personal. It is important to take [is crucial]”
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