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The Dark Academia aesthetic is an ideal style for those who enjoy a rich, refined, moody and elegant vibe within their interior design.
Furniture is one of the most profound elements of any balanced home interior and the furnishings you choose have the ability to make or break your design aesthetic. When it comes to Dark Academia, it's important to select pieces that contribute to the dark, sophisticated atmosphere you're looking to create.
In this post, we will explore 8 staple types of furniture that are the backbone of an authentic Dark Academia aesthetic.
What is Dark Academia Interior Design?
Before we jump into these furniture picks, it's important to understand what Dark Academia interior design is.
Dark Academia embraces academics, literature, and the arts, oozing romanticism of all things intellectual. It assumes a classic yet mysterious atmosphere that uses rich colours and sophisticated décor.
Some describe Dark Academia as gothic, evocative and regal. Enthusiasts are drawn to its refined and darkly elegant aesthetic, finding pleasure in the studious ambience it creates.
The style brings to mind imagery of dusky autumn days and historical architecture, reminiscent of an elegant English university on a rainy day.
8 Furniture Pieces for a Dark Academia Aesthetic
Dark Academia furniture encompasses a wide range of elements, including items with an old-world charm, high levels of ornamentation, refined, intricate details, and vintage or antique styles. More practically, this might include elements such as:
Rich wood: Carved or polished dark wood such as mahogany, oak or walnut.
Vintage patterns: Tartan, damask, Chinzts or houndstooth for furniture upholstery.
Luxurious materials: Velvet, satin, silk, or linen.
Metallic accents: Gold, brass or bronze for drawer handles, etc.
Luxurious surfaces: Tabletops made from materials such as marble, granite or stone for items like coffee, dining or end tables.
Now we know the basics, let's explore some specific pieces of furniture that will elevate your Dark Academia interior.
1: Ornate Sideboards
A sideboard can act as a stage to showcase your favourite decorative accessories. Since Dark Academia is an interior design style that embraces maximalism, it's beneficial to have multiple zones to display ornaments, such as vases, antique globes, or leather-bound books.
Choose sideboards with high levels of ornamentation, including intricately carved wood, inlaid or marquetry features, or metallic accents such as brass handles or legs.
2: Four-Poster Beds
Dark Academia is a romantic style, and what's more romantic than a four-poster bed? They're grand and elegant and fit beautifully with the old-world charm that's a staple aspect of Dark Academia home design.
Look for highly ornamented four-poster beds, featuring elements such as carved wood and perhaps even sultry drapes made of lace or silk.
3: Wingback Chairs
Wingback chairs pair perfectly with classic interior design styles, making them an ideal choice for Dark Academia spaces.