Nine autumn-inspired dark and moody interior design ideas
Timeless and cosy, dark colour schemes are more than just a trend. They add a warm elegance that you'll love to come home to.
If you love the colours and atmosphere of autumn, then dark decor ideas could be the perfect way to express your unique style. And with trends like Dark Academia becoming increasingly popular, there’s never been a better time to go bold. Here are nine interior design tips to add to your new Charles Church home, and create a comforting space that is sophisticated and effortlessly inviting.
Why you need a cocoon room…
If the famous Scandinavian expression ‘hygge’ were a season it would be Autumn. Meaning cosiness and the enjoyment of life’s simple pleasures; it even sounds like a 'hug'.
So ditch tried and tested colour schemes, and gather your favourite hygge decor inspiration. Your environment is everything, and this relaxing interiors trend might just change your life.
1. Modern gothic
Embracing Gothic interior design can ground your space and add a luxurious quality. Think black candleholders, thick dark wood frames or charcoal-grey area rugs to complete your own eye catching look.
For finishing touches, go for almost blacks combined with brass features.
2. The calm of dark decor
If you’re afraid that dark wall colours and decor will make your room feel smaller, think again. One of the best advantages of working with darker tones is that they can give your space a beautiful and spa-like relaxing feel that improves your everyday mental wellbeing.
To maximise that hug-like atmosphere, add accessories such as soft, velvet cushions or textured throw pillows.
3. Layer your lighting
The right amount of light and contrast is crucial. Balancing the richness of your chosen deep hues, it ensures your space doesn’t feel overwhelming or oppressive.
Before you commit to a colour, take note of the room's amount of natural light. In a home where natural light is more limited, go for muted yet warm tones. Mirrors and soft, diffused lighting will also prevent the room from feeling too heavy. Add metallic accents and light-coloured furniture to break up the dark tones further and create a harmonious space.
And with our Select Options service, you can customise your home's features before you move in.
4. Bring the outdoors in
Bring your room to life and reduce any excess heaviness by introducing at least one element of greenery. Continue your chosen theme with brass or dark-toned plant pots – or channel your inner interior designer with a pop-of-colour piece.
5. (Moody) Parisian style
Classic Parisian interior design is the perfect blank canvas for a warm and cosy darker room. With warm neutral tones for walls, it also requires less time-consuming thought and commitment.
Remember to keep your white walls muted with undertones of pink and yellow. When furnishing your space, take inspiration from jewel-toned interiors to make a bold statement. A dark blue living room, for example, always makes an striking and chic impression.
6. The allure of Dark Academia
The old-world charm of Dark Academia brilliantly pairs with indulgent, heavy textures like velvet and leather. Take inspiration from Victorian libraries and decadent antique-filled rooms and add character with second-hand antique furniture and a vintage book or two.
For the full effect think dark stained wood, dark green decor, burgundy velvet pieces and soft lighting.
7. Bold as brass
Whether you fancy a royal blue wall paint colour or any autumn inspired shade, choosing brass or gold finish hardware will always look luxurious. Add gold-coloured candle holders, light fixtures and handles to your shopping list.
And for a true chic statement, you could even go for a golden feature wall.
8. Nature’s colour palette
Want to take inspiration from Autumn's traditional hues? Then explore muted yellows, rusty oranges and deep reds, and incorporate your favourites into your room scape.
Perfect for final accents and accessories, bright pops of colour are ideal when choosing items such comfy woollen blankets.
Your home, your rules
When it's time to make your decor decisions, go for the colours and choices that give you that happy feeling. And with so many ways to make these rich and romantic tones work for you, you're sure to find the right scheme for your home.
The key is to play and find the right balance of light, texture, and contrast – and create a space that feels both stylish and cosy.