“Light Academia” is the latest look making waves in the world of interior design. Creamy neutrals and subtle earth tones take center stage in this new take, a brighter alternative to the dark Academia His trend that dominated the previous year’s trend.
Moody color palettes are still in demand, but this new interior design trend proves there’s still room for schemes full of bright, warm hues. This year’s trends are all about the eclectic, so it’s no wonder this decor-focused aesthetic is gaining traction.
But what exactly is the light academia trend, and is it worth adopting? We spoke to interior designers to find out what the aesthetic entails and their style. We’ve found a way to permanently incorporate it into your home.
What are the trends in Light Academia?
(Image credit: Julie Sofer/Marie Flannigan)
You’re probably familiar with the Dark Academia trend. Light Academia offers a similar vibe, but uses the opposite color palette. Dark colors are replaced by light shades and warm neutrals, and metallic details and dark painted wood are replaced by natural textures with light finishes.
“The interior of Light Academia takes inspiration from historical references from the Gothic and Art Nouveau eras, but with a brighter and more neutral color scheme than its Dark Academia counterpart,” says Story Design. explains Sara Kruse, owner and lead designer at .
“It’s a combination of old and new, a way to give the space a sense of history and make it feel like it’s been preserved over time,” she added. Wright Her Academia’s interiors have an eclectic and collected feel, with a blend of contemporary and vintage decor, while the affluent trend of bookshelves is incorporated into these spaces. It creates a cozy, lived-in atmosphere.
Why is Light Academia becoming a trend?
(Image credit: Divine Savages)
Analyzing the individual design elements of the interior of the Wright Academy, many recall the past. So why will these be her trends in 2024? “Just like the maximalist decorating ideas that are so popular this year, people want their homes to feel warm and livable. ” says Sarah.
The Light Academia trend sees a lot of ornamentation, but nothing too precious or overly selected. The shelves are lined with antiques, collectibles, and books, but they are not organized.
This approach to decorating and styling infuses a home with character and individuality, offering a glimpse into the homeowner’s true self. “This aesthetic promotes a feeling of being lived in and allows people to tell their stories through their spaces by displaying their collections and treasures,” adds Sarah.
How can you bring the Light Academia aesthetic into your space?
(Image credit: LAYERED)
Decorating your space to reflect the Wright Academia style requires appropriate room color ideas, textures, and decor. It’s important to balance an academic aesthetic with warm, almost romantic details.
Light and neutral room ideas are essential for a successful light academia plan. Think beige, taupe, greige, and warm white tones. In addition to these neutral toes, there is space for a more earthy palette, with plaster pinks, subtle yellows, and pale powder blues often appearing in more nuanced ways.
Not only colors, but also design elements and decorations are the most relevant features of the light academia trend. “To bring this concept into your space, think about adding molding details or trim to the walls, adding crown molding around the perimeter of the room, or sculpting old-world furniture.” says Sarah.
(Image credit: LAYERED)
The theme of blending old and new continues when it comes to home furnishings. “Vintage furniture, art, and lighting elements further enhance the historic feel that this look achieves. To achieve a light academia feel, upholstery should be kept in light colors. Cotton , linens and patterns are great ways to add the warmth you need to this look,” explains Sarah.
And of course, no plan for Light Academy would be complete without the idea of a bookshelf filled with collected books, decorations, and trinkets. Adding a cozy wingback armchair next to it creates an inviting reading nook, perfect for a light academia-style space.
Buy Light Academia Home Decor
Decorative pieces are at the core of the Light Academia trend, so no styled space will feel completely complete without a few appropriate decorative items. From natural stone objects to fascinating artwork, there’s plenty to inspire you.
Rosalind Wheeler Wooden Tabletop Globe
Charlton Home Mission Figure Bust
In a year where maximalism, eclectic style, and livable spaces are all the rage, it’s no wonder light academia is trending. This trend includes all the features that can give a space individuality and individuality. So whether you use this style to create a cozy reading nook or add some academic charm to your interiors, the look always looks great and timeless.