Gothic bedroom ideas

Credit: @gandgdesigns

If you’re into dark and brooding atmospheres, intense romance and mysteries, then the gothic aesthetic may just be for you.

Whilst some may be put off by the idea of a gothic bedroom design, others will ‘ooh’ and ‘ahh.’ Bold and edgy yet moody and chic, there are so many reasons to truly love the gothic aesthetic.

In fact, don’t just take our word for it. Trend experts Pinterest actually predicted that ‘vamp romantic’ (which is all about embracing a garish gothic style) would be a top design trend this year. And with Emerald Fennell’s “Wuthering Heights” causing a stir, it seems that a gothic revival and “moorcore” obsession is already coming our way…

Keep reading to learn more about how to design a room that’s deliciously dramatic? In this gothic guide, we’ll cover everything from choosing the right dark and moody tones to selecting fitting furniture pieces that even Cathy and Heathcliff would approve of.

Lovers of velvet, moonlight and shadows, follow us. And watch your step…

The gothic aesthetic is not all Dracula, coffins and bats. On the contrary, it’s an extremely elegant design style and when done well, can exude true timeless glamour. It’s more about certain colours, textures, and an overall feel of a space, over anything else.

It’s important to note that gothic interiors can be styled traditionally, taking influences from the Victorian era (think baroque), or adapted for a modern, minimalist twist. The key gothic motifs to keep in mind are dark and moody colour palettes, decadent textures like lace and velvet, and intricate patterns, such as elegant swirls and florals. And sure, why not throw in a stone gargoyle or two if it feels right? But we’ll leave that one with you to mull over…

Dark delights: gothic colour palettes and walls

Ready to create your own gothic-inspired bedroom design? Let’s start with classic gothic colours, tones and wall treatments to build your gothic foundations…

1. Embrace moody black and charcoal walls

To really embrace the gothic aesthetic, start by giving your bedroom a dark backdrop by painting your walls in a jet black or dark charcoal. And remember, black doesn’t mean bleak! Just look how we’ve drenched the walls behind our grey Francesca Upholstered Ottoman Bed Frame in a dark charcoal grey. The result is a fabulous, layered look that’s rich in depth and dimension. It’s a modern spin, but indisputably gothic at its roots.

2. Layer in jewel tones for a rich pop of colour

If you’re keen to add some colour to your gothic bedroom, make sure to lean towards richer, darker hues, like jewel tones such as ruby red, sapphire blue, and emerald green.

These colours look particularly extravagant in velvet and silk, both of which are opulent fabrics which are often seen in elegant gothic-style bedrooms. We adore a red velvet throw draped over the end of a bed, like the one above, for a totally understated look…!

3. Add gothic wallpaper or murals that mesmerise

Dial up the drama with a gothic-inspired wallpaper or mural behind your bed. This could be a traditional gothic damask pattern, which features intricate, swirling details, a more modern, repeating floral print or a celestial scene full of stars and moons. Whatever you choose, giving your walls some personality is an easy way to make a big statement.

Add grand furniture and statement pieces

Next up, we have the largest elements of your bedroom: your furniture. This will certainly impact the whole ambience of your sleep space, so it’s important to get them right. Here are some of our favourite gothic-inspired pieces…

4. Choose an opulent bed frame

If there’s one thing we’re certain of, it’s that a gothic bedroom requires a dramatic bedscape. The good news is, you have plenty of choice. Lots of different materials work for this look, but we have a few pointers for each one.

If you’re looking at a wooden bed frame, we’d recommend opting for a darker, richer wood, like mahogany or oak (our Tribeca bed is a great example here). Likewise, if you’re looking for an upholstered number, choose something in a rich jewel-toned velvet, like our Jay velvet bed. This is a perfect contemporary bed base which nods to all the classic gothic characteristics. And if you’re more of a metal bed frame fan, go for something with intricate details, as opposed to anything too modern. Our black metal Downton bed frame captures the essence of a gothic bedroom, without trying too hard. Take your pick!

5. Add a dramatic headboard

Alternatively, if you don’t fancy committing to a whole new bed, how about a dramatic gothic headboard instead? Again, it’s important to look for those signature ornate curves and luxurious fabrics, like velvet, to create a gothic-inspired feel. The Sealy Pavilion Headboard in ocean green captures both of these elements beautifully, for a decadent (and super comfy) place to rest your head.

6. Choose vintage or baroque-inspired furniture

For a more traditional result, your best option is to go thrifting! Victorian baroque is a cornerstone of the gothic style, so any vintage furniture piece in this style is sure to be a good fit. Think dark wooden wardrobes and dressers, intricately carved side tables, or ornate gilded mirrors. If it’s grand, it’s gothic!

A dressing table, like the one pictured here, is one of the easiest pieces to pick out and style. All you need to do is add an ornate mirror, a perfume tray with your favourite skincare essentials, and maybe a candle or two. Now you have a glamorous place to perch and brush your hair, write a dramatic diary entry or simply brood for hours on end. Whatever takes your fancy…

Layer up with gothic textiles and soft furnishings

Now, for your textures. Gothic bedrooms typically feature cosy, layered materials that create a moody atmosphere.

7. Dress the bed with gothic-inspired bedding

Classic gothic materials include luxurious fabrics like damask, silk and brocade. But, for a more accessible route, we’d suggest using good quality textiles that offer the same effect, without the price tag! To give your bed a gothic glow-up, consider styling with satin, cotton, velvet and lace. For instance, a plump, fluffy duvet dressed in dark floral cotton bedding with a lacy trim gives instant heroine vibes, whilst plum satin sheets exude understated gothic glam.

Make sure to style your bedding with cushions and throws that match at least one element of your duvet cover, whether that’s the colour, texture or both. The result is a coordinated, cohesive look that’s fit for a king or queen.

8. Layer with opulent throws and cushions

Speaking of dressing your bed, if you need some specific tips on how to create a gothic-inspired bed, we’ve got you covered.

We’d suggest mixing and matching your materials to bring a wealth of depth and texture to your bedroom centrepiece. This could be with a fabulous faux fur throw, some silky square cushions, a velvet bolster, or all of the above! The more layers, the more you’ll want to dive into your bed at the end of a long day.

9. Add curtains or drapes with gothic flair

Don’t forget your windows! Often overlooked in home makeovers, how you style your bedroom window sills can dramatically transform the whole ambience of your space. For instance, try hanging some floor-length, sheer black drapes to keep things soft and whimsical. Or, why not really lean into the Victorian gothic style with some heavy-duty, structured curtains that perfectly frame your windows? Now, your bedroom can transform into a gothic-style castle that’s rich in history.

If you love darkness (and we’re assuming you do, if you’re reading this blog), make sure to choose blackout curtains that feature an inner lining, to make it feel like midnight in your bedroom 24 hours a day. Just don’t blame us if you sleep past your alarm…

Set the tone with dim lighting

It’s time to set the mood. Let’s review our favourite clever lighting tricks to capture the essence of a dramatic, gothic bedroom.

10. Layer moody lighting for a dramatic effect

For maximum gothic ambience, you can’t get any better than a glamorous, oversized chandelier hanging above the bed, like the extravagant one above. Simply breathtaking.

Alternatively – because we know giant chandeliers aren’t to everyones taste or budget – regular-sized table lamps or floor lamps can still create the same sultry, low-lit effect. Choose lamps with glass or metal bases, or even fake crystals dangling from the shade, for a chandelier vibe.

11. Bring in candles and candelabras

It wouldn’t be a gothic bedroom without some dramatic details. A simple and very cost-effective way to bring some moody magic to your sleep space is with some candles. Yes, we mean plural – the more, the merrier.

Place beautiful candelabras, candlesticks, pillar candles, tea lights – whatever you like – on available surfaces in your bedroom to create a beautiful flickering glow. Bonus gothic points if you choose black candles!

Finishing touches with gothic charm

Now, let’s explore the best accessories and creative ways to add personality and life to your gothic bedroom.

12. Decorate with gothic wall art

Let your walls do the talking and invest in some beautiful gothic wall art. Common motifs include eerie skulls, dramatic roses, full moons, old-fashioned portraits and gothic architecture. Remember, art is subjective, so go with whatever calls to you.

With these gothic bedroom ideas, we hope this proves that the gothic aesthetic doesn’t just mean all doom and gloom. In actual fact, a gothic-inspired bedroom can be a haven of sultry romance, dark glamour and vampire chic. It’s moody, in the best way.