Is it just us, or do you have to crank up the brightness on your phone to swipe through Instagram photo dumps these days? We’re not collectively losing our sight. It’s the low-exposure aesthetic that’s trending all over social media right now, coupled with the dark and moody interiors dominating our spaces. While the picture of that lemon drop martini on slide three likely has edits or filters for dramatic effect, the restaurant’s aesthetic may be nearly as dark. Designers are hopping on the wave and bringing these vibes into the home, according to a 2024 report by Houzz.

This shift indicates a desire for living spaces to feel cozier and more intimate, like the conversations we might have sitting at the bar with friends. On the other hand, it could be a side effect of boredom with the less bold whites and grays that have taken over interiors in recent years.

Searches for “moody living room” and “moody kitchen” are up 130% and 120%, respectively, compared to last year. Homeowners and professionals are also exploring dark and moody ceilings, bedrooms, offices, and powder rooms. With fall right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to incorporate this popular aesthetic, which favors deep hues like walnut and burgundy. That doesn’t mean neutral lovers are out of luck—a muted hint of darkness can be a total vibe changer. So, before you put your cream modular couch up for sale on Facebook Marketplace, check out these quick tips for pushing dark and moody aesthetics forward in any room.

Embracing Moodiness

When curating a dark and moody home, you can opt for subtlety, like playing into the unexpected red theory with a vibrant accent chair, or make a big statement, like a moss bed frame. Here are various ways to add deeper shades to your decor.

Kitchen

There are many design opportunities in this communal space of the home. For a simplistic effect, create a beautiful floral centerpiece filled with colors like mahogany, carmine, sage, or violet. In the mood for something more eye-catching? Consider painting your cabinets and coordinating your bar stools to match!

Living Room

The living room is the heart of your home, ideal for design expression. Layer soft textures with a chunky knit throw and velvet cushions in warm shades like terracotta or mustard. To turn up the drama, consider adding stunning artwork above your sofa and balance it with coffee table books that reflect your interests!

Bathroom

Transform your bathroom into a tranquil oasis with moody vibes. Keep the lighting warm and select options with dimmers for ultimate coziness. Refresh your bathroom rugs and shower curtains in a new shade. Dark countertops, flooring, and cabinets can create breathtaking visuals for those wanting a complete revamp.

Office

The goal of your office space is to create optimal productivity. If enhancing its coziness won’t negatively impact your focus, start with a new desk chair, specifically an upholstered one. If you have enough room, add a small loveseat for lazy work-from-home days. Willing to go all out? Grab a can of paint and splash the walls and ceiling with color.

Bedroom

Your bedroom should feel the most like you. It’s the space in your home where you likely entertain the least and spend more time alone. So here, whatever works for you is best. Small changes like investing in blackout curtains, enhancing the luxury with a richly colored duvet cover, and adding sconces on either side of the bed frame for cozy lighting might be enough. Take it one step further with new furniture, including a bed frame and dressers.