Modern Dark Academia aesthetic is the merging of two much- loved decorating styles: the traditional history-loving recluse we know as Dark Academia and our modern maven of clean lines and neutral palettes. It's a perfect partnership.
How to Achieve Modern Dark Academia
Think dark and cozy, yet streamlined and practical.
Think Bogey and Bacall.
It’s a look for everyone. Winter is the perfect season for a cozy try-on.
Have fun creating a little cornerstone reading nook. Or, why not finally make the home office of your dreams?
In this post you’ll learn five simple steps to achieve that modern dark academia aesthetic. Let's dive in!
1. Blend Vintage and Modern Furniture
Dark Academia's charm lies in the harmonious blend of vintage and modern furniture. It appreciates the textures and history of vintage pieces while embracing the sleekness and functionality of modern design.
Try pairing a vintage leather armchair with a minimalist modern table, or mixing a sleek sofa with an antique coffee table.
I'm gaga over this leather contemporary office chair with exposed stitching- it embodies the vibe all in one piece.
2. Embrace Rich, Dark Colors
Immerse yourself in the cozy and sophisticated atmosphere of modern Dark Academia by embracing rich, deep colors. Old academia blues hues get a needed update: our modern maven keeps the optics tidy with neutral shades of black. This includes Black Forest green and Wenge.
Behind the warm light of soft lamps and brass fixtures, it’s a glowing masterpiece.
Learn more about shades of black here:
3. Integrate Classic Patterns
Add depth and visual interest to your space by incorporating timeless patterns like houndstooth or checkerboard. These classic designs bring a touch of nostalgia and elegance. Try these for an air of sophistication.
Keep it contemporary: use patterns sparingly as the modern vibe will lose identity in Maximalism.
If you're going checkerboard on the floor, then have two small items in the corners of the room as repeats, like a small framed print and a bud vase, with the rest of of the decor neutral and adhering to your color palette.
4. Feature Luxe Textiles
Elevate your space with opulent and luxurious textiles like velvet curtains, cashmere throws, wool or silk rugs. These sumptuous fabrics bring depth and interest, and create a sense of indulgence.
The result is a space that feels irresistibly inviting, compelling you to curl up in cashmere, and read a rendition of Rasselas.
Make it modern: The nod to modern cues a less-cluttered and optically organized presentation. so keep your textiles neutral or in the same color family.
5. Decorate with Books
Books are the heart of the Dark Academia aesthetic, symbolizing a profound love for knowledge and literature.
Make books an integral part of your decor by displaying them in vignettes alongside reading accessories, or stack them elegantly in corners. Create a cozy reading nook with a comfortable chair, a soft lamp, and a stack of your favorite books.
Alternatively, adorn bookshelves with carefully arranged books, plants, candles, and other accessories. By embracing the presence of books, you infuse your space with intellectual allure.
Make it modern: stacking the same size books and colors together. Modern won't have books strewn about, they must be intentional.
Incorporating these 5 decor ideas into your home allows you to express your passion for academia, literature, and history with contemporary style and charm. The result is gorgeous, tempting, and practical…and a feast for the eyes and soul.
what do you think of modern dark academia?
0%love it, going to try it
0%not for me
0%thinking about it!
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