Dark and moody interiors are bold and fearless, like our customers -  the antithesis to muted white-on-white palettes. Done right, dark interior design is seductive, providing a relaxing cocooning effect – packed with character, depth and drama.

You see stunning inspiration all over Pinterest and Instagram: inky industrial havens to dark cottagecore interior sanctuaries and everything in between. With a little planning, you can create a memorable, luscious interior. From choosing the dreamiest colour combos to picking the perfect sofa set-up, we run through how to create this atmospheric aesthetic yourself. Join us, and come to the dark side…

The basics of dark interior design 

Whether you’re drawn to the rich, deep tones of a cosy dark brown interior or the dramatic, vampy flair of a gothic-inspired space, darker decor offers endless styling possibilities. The trick is knowing how to design, without creating a dungeon.

Pick the right colour palette

Choosing colours for your dark interior design can be daunting: the key is to opt for shades that aren’t too heavy. When you first think of dark and moody interiors, you might think of blacks and charcoals, these cooler tones can be bold, dramatic, and seductive, but there’s another palette that shouldn’t be missed - the warmer side of the colour wheel - toasty browns, earthy burgundy, and deep forest greens, that add a natural sense of calm and softness to a space.

Create Contrast

As well as creating a mix of warm and cool elements, one of our favourite ways to bring  harmony to dark interior design is through contrasting moody hues with brighter colours: for instance, putting a mustard yellow or hot pink sofa against a beautiful moody boho floral wallpaper.  Or, you can play with the accessories to dramatic effect. Opt for a metallic accent piece to prevent a space from feeling heavy. Like magic, anything you put against inky colours instantly pops and feels richer.

Play with texture

Without texture, dark interior design can fall flat. Thankfully, there are countless ways you can easily use texture to add depth and dimension to a room, making your home feel warm and welcoming. This can be as simple as incorporating plush rugs, textured cushions, velvet sofas, and other tactile finishes to create a sensory-rich environment that's as comforting and cosy as it is stylish.

Curate thoughtful accents

The right decor can transform dark interior design, especially if it complements your chosen colour palette and theme. Use light to your advantage, oversized mirrors bounce light around your room when placed opposite a window or light source. Flowers and lush greenery bring vibrancy and freshness, while statement artwork is a perfect way to make your home unique.

Balance light and shadows

Strategic lighting is essential in any room, but it’s even more important in dark and moody interiors. Layering a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting in warm hues can create definition and a sense of luxury, highlighting key features and setting a cocooning atmosphere. Consider statement chandeliers, floor lamps, and table lamps to add drama and depth.

Types of dark interior design to try 

If you dare to be different, there are all kinds of dark interior design ideas to get you started. From dark maximalist decor to moody cottagecore, see if any of these dark interior design types feel like the perfect match for your style and space:

• Dark academia interior design: Packing heaps of intellectual charm, dark academia embraces rich, deep hues, vintage furniture, and scholarly accents such as leather-bound books and old maps. In your own space, create a cosy reading nook with a tufted armchair, a well-crafted bookcase, and warm ambient lighting.
• Dark rustic interior design: Blend rugged beauty and dark hues by mixing earthy materials such as natural wood, distressed leather, and wrought iron accents for a cosy yet sophisticated ambience.
• Dark maximalist decor: For those who love to go big and bold, celebrates the blend of luxurious textures, vibrant colours, and eclectic patterns. For dark maximalist decor, layer plush patterned sofas, ornate rugs, and gilded accents for a sumptuous space.
• Dark cottagecore interiors: For a romantic, cosy, and inviting atmosphere, channel the charm of the countryside with dark cottagecore interior Think moody floral prints, vintage-inspired furniture, and whimsical accents such as lace curtains and antique knick-knacks.
• Dark industrial interior design: If you’re drawn to a more raw, edgy aesthetic, dark industrial interior design may be the style for you. Choose colours that evoke urban sophistication, such as steel blue, charcoal, and oxidised copper. Other elements of this look include exposed brick walls, repurposed objects, and weathered finishes.
• Luxurious modern dark interior design: For a perfectly moody modern room, focus on sleek lines, high-end materials, and understated elegance. Again, plush velvet sofas work wonders, as do marble accents and a glamorous blend of monochrome and metallics.

Ready to join the dark side? Explore our sofas, furniture, and home accessories to bring your own specially curated dark interior design to life, or visit our converted mill showroom in Yorkshire’s idyllic Luddenden Valley to see our treasures in person.