Design Focus: Dark Academia

Dark Academia is considered a micro-trend, one inspired by an internet subculture that has been around for the past decade – it’s now taking the interiors world by storm. Here we delve into the style with interior designer and property developer, Leigh Dawson who has been using the trend to elevate his properties.

What Is Dark Academia Design?

Dark Academia pays homage to moody romanticism, with an eclectic mix of vintage finds, books and soft lighting in a maximalist style. The idea is to create a space that you could pick up a book in and never want to leave, feeling completely cocooned in the space. 

Dark Academia Colour Palettes:

Colour plays a really important role within dark academia design as this is the key to create a dramatic interior. 

Dark tones in rich blues, purples and greens create a stunning backdrop for metallic accents and create that enveloping feeling. 

Colour drenching a room in one colour works really well for the dark academia style, and there are plenty of multi-surface paints available at Brewers to help you get the look. Find out more here>>

Dark Academia Wallpapers And Fabrics:

The use of wallpapers and fabrics within a dark academia scheme can be a great way to get the maximalist look. 

Rich, textured damasks or vintage inspired wallpapers can work beautifully, whilst heavyweight fabrics such as velvets can create complementary window treatments. 

Here are some of our favourite Albany wallpaper designs that could be incorporated into your next dark academia scheme from the Albany Verona collection:

Where Could You Use Dark Academia In The Home?

If you would like to introduce dark academia into your home, there are some spaces that fit the style perfectly. 

Darker colours have been shown to improve concentration, so introducing dark academia into a study or reading space would be ideal. 

It can also create a really relaxing, cosy feeling at night, so would work well in lounges, snugs or bedrooms. 

If you’re choosing a room with dark, north-facing natural light, this will lean into the style really well, and if you’re using a room with south-facing light, try to use cooler colours such as blues and purples to balance the warmth created by the light.

Feeling inspired? Head into your local Brewers Decorator Centre and start designing your own dark academia scheme today!