A goth-style bedroom doesn't have to appear spooky or completely dark. If you do gothic correctly, there should be a sense of sophistication, romance, and enchantment.
To start, you could paint your walls a dark shade of gray, deep purple, or even black which can help set the entire mood. Gothic furniture crafted from rich wood or strong iron with ornate details can immediately grab your attention when you walk into the room. Wall sconces that are dimmable or even putting out lots of LED candles can help create a sleep space that feels romantic and intimate. A full wall-length bookcase filled with vintage novels with an old chaise lounge or armchair can add a sense of history to the bedroom.
Our design experts will take you through all the details and must-have items in making and styling a gothic bedroom that feels unique yet completely functional.
Incorporate Dark Walls
To create a dark and moody atmosphere, incorporate dark walls in shades like black, deep purple, or dark grey into your goth bedroom. This works best in spaces with ample natural light and can be balanced with light-colored floors. Accentuate the room with statement furniture and decor, like an ornate painting or a patterned headboard.
Choose Gothic Furniture
Elevate your goth bedroom with furniture featuring elements like wrought iron, dark wood, and ornate carvings. Recommended spaces include the main bedroom where bold statement pieces create an impressive focal point, like an opulent bed with rich red pillows and accompaniments such as a grand piano or antler chandelier.
Add Luxurious Textiles
Heighten the goth ambiance with opulent fabrics like velvet, brocade or silk for bedding, curtains, and upholstery. By blending textures and patterns, especially in a black and gold theme, bedrooms can exude both elegance and grandeur. For a chic aesthetic, opt for a statement wallpaper with intricate floral patterns and a brass light fixture.
Install Dim Lighting
Forge a mysterious atmosphere with dimmable lighting or candles, whether real or LED, in your goth bedroom. This is particularly effective when paired with dramatic features, such as a black four-poster bed or mirrored surfaces. Remember to utilize natural light sources such as windows, which can soften the overall dark aesthetic.
Incorporate Gothic Art
Showcase your personal style with dark, gothic-themed art like skulls, gargoyles, or Victorian-style portraits. Position these pieces inside suitable bedrooms, focusing on the main walls or above furniture. Create a rustic atmosphere with beds adorned in mixed textiles paired with items such as a tall lamp featuring a bird figurine or a mounted fox head.
Display Antique Items
Intertwine history and mystery by decorating with antique pieces like ornate mirrors, chandeliers, or clocks. Nestle these elements within a space dominated by dark colors and intricate wooden furniture, as seen in a goth-inspired bedroom. Be sure to incorporate vibrant greenery like potted plants to complement and contrast the dark hues.
Layer Rugs and Textiles
Enhance the depth and coziness of your goth-style room by layering rugs or throw blankets. Consider the inclusion of enchanting murals, like tropical jungle scenes, to add an exotic flair. When designing a bedroom, focus on textiles that capture the room's essence, such as a tasseled brown pillow or black and white candle basket.
Use Dramatic Bedding
Establish your bed as the room's focal point with dark, bold bedding patterns or statement headboards. This is effective in opulent gothic-inspired bedrooms featuring blue and white accents, as seen with mosaic-patterned blue headboards and tufted benches. Surround the bed with coordinating pieces, like nightstands, to complete the overall aesthetic.
Incorporate Plants
Introduce life and nature into your goth-themed space with dark-colored or low-light plants like snake plants or black mondo grass. Meld the vibrant greenery with dark walls, brass chandeliers, or a tufted white headboard to achieve a cohesive look that remains inviting and cozy, despite the gothic undertones.
Display Books and Collectibles
Personalize your goth haven with a curated bookcase or display shelf filled with gothic literature, collectibles, or curiosities. Create a tranquil reading spot by positioning a comfortable chair and table near an in-room library, all while taking advantage of natural light from large windows to showcase your belongings while maintaining a serene atmosphere.
Utilize Canopy Beds
Create a dramatic and romantic atmosphere by using a canopy bed with dark, flowing curtains. Ideal for bedrooms, this style pairs well with vintage aesthetics and rich color schemes. Complete the look with cozy seating, ambient lighting, and a bedside chest of drawers and books.
Incorporate Metallic Accents
Enhance your goth-inspired space with metallic elements such as gold or silver frames, hardware, and accessories. Suitable for bedrooms and living spaces, this chic touch works well with dark color schemes. Opt for a grand bed, tufted ottoman, and nightstands to elevate the luxurious feel.
Choose Patterned Wallpaper
Add depth and visual interest to your bedroom by choosing dark, intricate wallpaper patterns like damask or florals. Perfect for creating an intimate retreat, this idea works well with elegant furnishings and metallic accents. Complete the look with curated artwork and plush linens.
Install Wall Sconces
Introduce elegant and dramatic lighting with wall sconces to enhance a goth atmosphere. Ideal for bedrooms and living areas, this feature pairs well with opulent furnishings and dark color palettes. Create a cohesive space by incorporating ornate gold accents and luxurious fabrics.
Add a Fireplace
Transform your bedroom into a cozy sanctuary by installing a fireplace, real or electric, as a warm focal point. Perfect for contemporary and timeless designs, this concept complements chic furnishings, soft textures, and curated decor pieces that create a personal touch.
Hang a Crystal Chandelier
Illuminate your stylish bedroom with an elegant crystal chandelier, instantly adding a touch of sophistication. Ideal for spaces with vintage and modern details, this feature provides a stunning focal point. Enhance the look with ornate gold accents and lush greenery throughout the room.
Incorporate Lace Accents
Introduce a delicate and romantic touch to your bedroom with lace accents in curtains, bedding, or throw pillows. Perfect for balancing dark and moody aesthetics, this design idea works well with grand canopy beds, plush linens, and sophisticated lighting features.
Display Gothic Sculptures
Elevate the character and mystique of your goth-inspired bedroom by showcasing intriguing gothic sculptures such as angels or gargoyles. Ideal for adding visual interest, this design idea pairs well with ornate furnishings, dark color schemes, and luxurious fabrics.
Utilize Stained Glass
Infuse your gothic bedroom with colorful stained glass windows or decorative pieces, while staying true to the design style. Perfect for adding vibrancy to dark-themed spaces, this concept complements natural elements, cozy seating, and inviting lighting.
Add a Seating Area
Increase functionality and comfort in your goth-inspired bedroom by incorporating a cozy seating area with dark, plush chairs or a chaise lounge. Ideal for reading or relaxing, this design idea harmonizes with elegant lighting, rich color schemes, and luxe textures.
Chloe Hughes
Chloe is a highly-regarded expert in all things vintage and antique. She’s excited to share her vast knowledge with readers and clients wishing to infuse their homes with a mixture of old-time warmth and modern comfort. In addition to her design work, Chloe regularly volunteers at her local community center, teaching DIY projects to adults and kids.
