That touch of gothic: 6 ways to add (dark) drama to your house

Looking to spice up your neutrals? Channel a theatrical Victorian vibe – strong, dramatic pieces are just the thing to up the drama in your home

assymetrical velvet chair on designed floor
(Image credit: TBC)
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assymetrical velvet chair on designed floor

(Image credit: TBC)

1. The scarlet and the black
Rich ruby red mixed with jet black is a classic gothic combo. They are both strong colours in their own right, but together, as seen in this stunning Inga Sempé Ruché chair for Ligne Roset - zowie! We love its generous lush velvet padding framed against the plain asymmetrical seat and we tip our hats to the deliciously simple lines of the Memorabilia coat stand by Edi and Paolo Ciani for Calligaris - both great show-stopping designs. Don't miss out pick of the best hat stands.

black dressing table with black seat and pink wall

(Image credit: Mona design)

2. Dressed to thrill
Okay, hands up who has a black dressing table? One or two of you? But seeing this sexy number, you have to wonder why more of us haven't bought one. Sleek with finely turned legs, this shapely, feminine Mona design by Marcel Wanders for M&S really ramps up the sultry vibe. The mock draping wallpaper and fringed light add to the Victorian boudoir feel.

gothic theme dark floral print and lacy cushions with pink and lavender throws

(Image credit: Midnight Garden cushion)

3. Rose-tinted view
Dark floral prints, like the one featured on this Midnight Garden cushion by House of Hackney, are right on trend. Combine with lacy cushions and pink and lavender throws for a softer, more romantic take on Victoriana. A decorative skull, like this one from Josh Harker, maintains the gothic theme.

tic tac clock on white wall and wooden flooring

(Image credit: TBC)

4. Timeless pieces
Don‘t underestimate the power of black household furniture. Set against a white scheme, the Tic Tac clock by Studio G&R for Gallotti & Radice, Derome Bulb table lamp by Russell Pinch for Pinch Design and wire table by Jinil Park all look totally knockout.

gothic theme bedroom with black bed and rose wool silk rugs

(Image credit: TBC)

5. Hero's bed
For spicing up the bedroom, nothing beats the romance of a four-poster. This majestic mahogany Livorno bed by Simon Horn is beautifully carved, but its lack of frills and canopy keeps any girlieness at bay. The plum velvet pods from Next Home and luxe English Rose wool and silk rugs from Knots Rugs ensure the look remains luxe.

ebonised wine glass table in white and black

(Image credit: TBC)

6. Dark star
This ebonised Wine Glass table by Julian Chichester complete with raven book ends from Abigail Ahern has more than a touch of Edgar Allan Poe about it. Whether you install it in your living room or give it an area to itself, it will be one standout piece to be proud of. Could it even inspire your own Poe-tical work of genius?

Tamara Kelly
Contributor

Tamara was Ideal Home's Digital Editor before joining the Woman & Home team in 2022. She has spent the last 15 years working with the style teams at Country Homes & Interiors and Ideal Home, both now at Future PLC. It’s with these award wining interiors teams that she's honed her skills and passion for shopping, styling and writing. Tamara is always ahead of the curve when it comes to interiors trends – and is great at seeking out designer dupes on the high street. 

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