Do you love the idea of a dark, dreamy, and romantic bedroom? This design direction is taking off in recent months, especially among fans of dark academia, romantasy, gothic novels, and dramatic style. A moody bedroom design can feel more cozy and cocoon-like in the winter, making now the perfect time to give this design scheme a go. Here are some of the key elements to create a swoon-worthy dark romance-inspired bedroom.

Go Bold with Dark Wall Colors

The foundation of any room is its palette. So, it will come as no surprise that the best colors for a dark romance room include the following:

Charcoal gray
Navy blue
Burgundy
Forest green
Rich purple
Black

To avoid making the room feel too heavy, it’s important to balance dark walls with lighter accents like we did in this bedroom. This might include adding a touch of cream, gold, or muted metallics through furniture, art, and decor.

Add a Statement Chandelier & Soft Lighting

Lighting is so important in creating the perfect mood for a dark romance-inspired room. A statement chandelier in an ornate vintage style, like this one, can create a dramatic focal point for your space. In addition to the chandelier, layer your lighting with soft, ambient options. Dim, flickering candles—either real or LED—table lamps, antique sconces, and fairy lights are some dreamy options to create a gentle glow in your bedroom. Avoid recessed lighting and opt for dimmer switches where possible.

Use Plush Fabrics and Textures

Indulgence is at the core of any dark romance-inspired space. To create your sumptuous bedroom, include plush fabrics and tactile textures, like:

Velvet bedspread and cushions
Silk curtains
Faux fur rugs
Silk lampshades
Dark grained wood
Lace accents
Brocade upholstery
Natural stone, like marble

See an example of how we styled textiles in a dark romance bedroom here.

Include Antique Furnishings

To tap into the dark romance aura, consider adding antique furnishings that feel timeless and mysterious. For example, you might include a vintage writing desk, canopy bed, ornate gilded mirror, or a French-inspired armchair. Antique wood furnishings with distressed edges or metal with a natural patina will add character to make your space feel more like it has emerged from the pages of a gothic novel.

Unique Accent Pieces

Finally, scour your local antique stores and artisan markets for unique, artisanal decor to sprinkle throughout your space. Some ideas that fit the bill include:

Oil paintings
Gold or silver candlesticks
Sculptures, including figurines

Embrace the Drama of Romance

A dark romance-inspired room should be a sanctuary of sophistication, drama, and decadence. But, it doesn’t have to be all dark – you can create lightness through pops of color, or with sparkling accents that draw the eye. If you are drawn to this dramatic design theme, get in touch with us to set up a consultation for your unique space. We’re always here to help make your dreamiest design ideas come true.