7 Dramatic Living Room Ideas for Gothic Lovers
The term “Gothic” has been used to describe the style we associate with a number of eras. Originally, Gothic architecture was a staple of the Middle Ages. It came back in vogue in the Victorian era as more buildings were built and decorated in the “Gothic Revival” style.
Today, we’re seeing Gothic decor making another comeback as more homeowners embrace the rich, dark colors and eye-catching furniture of 21st-century Gothic interior design.
How can you transform your own living room into a Gothic living room? It’s not as complicated as you may think!
Read on for seven ways that you can turn any living room of any shape or size into a modern Gothic living room.
1. Grab Some Dark Paint
One of the fastest, easiest, and most cost-effective ways to start your Gothic living room off on the right foot is to paint the walls in a dark color. The Gothic style is dramatic and creates feelings of romance and even suspense. (After all, Dracula could be right around the corner!)
If you’re feeling exceptionally bold, dive in with black paint. If black is a bit too drastic, you can opt for maroon, purple, or grey. You want to develop a sense of continuity between the walls and the furniture, so make sure that your paint color doesn’t clash with any pieces you plan to bring in later.
If your walls have any built-in or recessed shelves, we recommend painting those with a bold accent color to make them pop. Alternatively, create an access wall using ornate wallpaper.
2. Replace Your Overhead Light Fixture
Our modern light fixtures are far too plain and utilitarian to mesh well with Gothic decor. Time to replace that simple fixture with an exciting and dramatic chandelier!
Choosing a chandelier isn’t always easy. We’ve fallen in love with these primitive wooden chandeliers that would look amazing in any Gothic living room.
3. Deck the Windows in Pooling Drapes
Even a Gothic living room needs a touch of natural light, especially if you’ve gone dark with your paint colors. Modern-day blinds or shades are going to throw off the vibe so we suggest replacing them with Gothic-style drapes.
When selecting your fabric, consider something heavy and thick. You can keep the drapes simple or bring in some more visual flair with an intricate tapestry-like pattern. Tassels, fringe, and tie-backs also add a great Gothic touch.
Oh, and one more thing: make sure that the drapes are about two or three feet longer than they need to be. Allowing the fabric to pool along the ground creates a lushness that is suitable for any Gothic living room.
4. Get Odd With Accessories
Nothing says “Gothic” like a shelf covered in oddities. Skulls, dolls, taxidermy, and other strange accessories are always at home in a Gothic environment. (Don’t worry; the skulls and taxidermy don’t need to be real.)
Sculptures and statues of all kinds also make a great addition. Stick to natural materials like metal, wood, iron, and stone for a classic Gothic look, or mix things up with brightly colored plaster and clay pieces to bring a more modern look.
When selecting quantity and placement, you’ll want to consider the vibe you’re going for. If you want to create a wacky and eccentric living room, feel free to deck out the shelves, mantles, and side tables with all sorts of oddities. If you’re going for something a bit more sophisticated and minimalistic, opt for three or four staple pieces that will draw the eye.
5. Reupholster Your Furniture in Velvet or Silk
Chenille, polyester, and nylon don’t exactly scream “Gothic.” Having your furniture reupholstered with a more period-appropriate material is a great way to add that “wow” factor. Consider using deep, wine-colored velvets and patterned silks to give your chairs and couches a makeover.
Alternatively, head to your local antique stores and see what kind of furniture they have for sale. Furniture with gold or wooden scrollwork along the edges is particularly appropriate for this aesthetic.
Note that this is our most expensive tip. If you’re redecorating on a budget, you might want to save this one for last. If all of the other steps are well-executed, having a more modern-looking couch isn’t going to ruin the effect!
6. Go For the Gild
Imagine a Gothic cathedral or the haunted halls of a Gothic castle. Looking around these imaginary walls, you’re bound to notice tons of gilded mirrors, picture frames, and even windows.
Intricate scroll work appeared on more than just the furniture in Gothic structures. It pretty much appears anywhere there’s room for it!
If you have a few mirrors or fixtures with impressive frames that aren’t gold, try a simple DIY fix. All you need is some gold leaf and some adhesive to go for the gild!
7. Thrift for Candlesticks
Gothic isn’t just a style. It’s also a mood! And what could be moodier than candlelight?
Head to a craft store or home goods store and pick up a variety of candles, including pillar candles and taper candles. Then, check out some of your local thrift stores and see what kinds of candlesticks you can find! Bold, heavy candlesticks made from untreated wood, wrought-iron, and gold are perfect for your Gothic living room.
Transform Your Home With a Modern Gothic Living Room
Gothic architecture and decor have made an appearance throughout the centuries, beginning in the Middle Ages and making their way to modern-day interior design. With our seven tips, you can transform any living room into a modern Gothic living room in no time!
Looking for more ways to turn your house into your dream home? Take a look at some more of our interior design and DIY tips and get the look you love!
