Rethinking Dark Academia, Living Room Update & Pivot

[@SheHoldsDearly]

Thoughts on how to use Dark Academia without getting depressing. Especially as we head into the darker days of the year, there are some things to consider. What would you do to lighten up a space like this?

[@cyberspace7208]

Bring light colors close to the floor and dark on the walls

[@MonicaBrand]

I would bring in more lamps of various sizes. Maybe an overhead light with a dimmer switch?

[@stephaniehilton4481]

I think bringing in more green like your couch color will help :)

[@carolmiller8811]

See my separate lengthy response. (I truly hope you take it in the spirit in which the “critique” was given.) Can’t wait to see the new end result.) Blessings!❤️

[@agracefilledlife1397]

My room is Black Blue by Farrow and Ball and I love it… started with one wall painted with it and the others painted with Dulux Timeless and then went to three dark and now the entire room is dark. We have a white ceiling, flagstone floors, one quite big window and lots of different lighting and mirrors. Mirrors behind lamps are a great way to brighten the room… Our seating is a mix of cognac and dark brown leather and we have added colour and lighter shades in cushions, throws and lamp shades. Our furniture pieces are a mix of mid and light woods. We even matched our curtains to the wall colour and this is the only possible change I would make by perhaps going for a natural heavy linen. Happy and cosy for now tho. Love your videos and gentle presentation style 💞

[@carrieh922]

Please don’t paint the secretary. I love it so much

[@susanphillips323]

I agree with not painting the secretary, for the grain is lovely. How about a small vintage lamp to brighten it?

[@lindaschmitz9318]

I also agree. Please don't paint it.😊

[@cat999991]

Maybe have it professionally finished.🙂

[@joycecrosby6934]

Love ur channel..painting the secretary is a mistake. The grain stretch marks is old tiger wood oak which is very gorgeous, rare and desirable.....keep on...brilliant paint fix technique on the window mullions

[@mariacabrera2850]

Agreed 🖤

[@CS-xj9od]

The secretary table is made of tiger oak wood aka quarter sawn oak. It’s very special and high quality. The large oak trees needed to make these cuts are very hard to come by these days.

[@JRRob3wn]

As far as I understand tiger oak is virtually impossible to source now.

[@annetaylor1095]

The secretary is perfect! Please leave the wood! ❤❤❤❤

[@janetthornton7909]

NOOOOO! Don’t paint the secretary desk. Paint will go into the pores of the wood and you will never get it out if you change your mind. It’s lovely. That color will come back into fashion-just wait awhile 🤗

[@FollowerOfYeshua1974]

I say who cares about silly trends?? Why can't people decorate their homes without following trends? I would hate to have to live like that.

[@acfarm1133]

The wood on the secretary is likely quartersawn oak. I’m refinishing a similar tone buffet and what worked super to strip the shellac and get rid of the orange dark stain was oven cleaner! Easy off Fume free in the blue can. Heavy spray to areas wait 15 minutes , scrub with scotch Britt pad and rinse with lots of water. I did mine outside. I sanded ( didn’t actually need too much) and will seal and then apply a small amount of gel stain,then top coat. Also, maybe some rub n buff for your dog bookends would work!

[@kaymack5304]

If you apply a coat of shellac before painting it will keep the paint from getting into the grain. Then you always have the option of stripping it at a later date.

[@Love2travelfar]

Don’t paint the secretary. The history is more important than the aesthetic of the room. Give it someone else in the family who can appreciate it for what it is.

[@cbb_creationsceciliabaca775]

The desk is beautiful, I wouldn’t paint it.

[@rachelstacy1]

Love the lighter curtains. That was my vote from the start. I prefer the God picture on the piano vs the black and white. A beautiful wood and fabric piano seat wood look lovely with your piano. I adore the bell you have in the middle of your front door. Thank you for sharing! ❤

[@lynnharrell9598]

I love the markings on the little secretary cabinet that you showed near the end of the video. I’m not opposed to painting furniture, but for this piece, I would hate to see all of the interesting wood texture get covered up. Also, I agree that although very beautiful, dark academia can get too dark. I like the contrast of the lighter colored curtains against the dark walls. 😊

[@HomeMadeVintage]

I am an avid hater of painting antique furniture and you have beautiful pieces so I wouldn’t dare suggest to paint any part of them! 😂 I love the dogs in black, but maybe lighter colored books will help them stand out more? Also, I LOVE the old chest in that spot flanked by the two leather chairs! 😍

[@AndYourLittleDog]

This is my perfect solution too. I think that’s tiger oak and it’s gorgeous. I always say there is a special place in hell for people who paint antiques.

[@loismanzi2442]

Love the black dogs

[@JRRob3wn]

My sister has a rocking chair that has been in the family for 150 years. At some point (probably 1940’s or 50’s) my grandfather painted it a very ugly orange. My sister had it professionally refinished and it is an insanely beautiful piece!

[@i-hs6ks]

I’m all ways inspired by your process and content. The “ stretch mark “ wood can be tiger oak or any wood with an interesting grain detail can be referred to as “ figured or figuring to the grain “ . Alternative to gilding the dog bookends might be to gild a flat piece of wood that could sit behind each dog , suggesting a silhouette. Have fun and do your thing !

[@gillianholter-hovind2367]

I love that silhouette idea!

[@debraweiss9734]

Yes, I like that idea, too. The dogs look like Labrador Retrievers, and so should be left black. Gilding the dogs themselves would look weird and unnatural, I think.

[@angelrays7]

Tiger oak is the type of wood on your secretary. Love it! ❤

[@gailacook5102]

I love the way the wood desks and the leather chairs complement your blue walls. I think moving the green sofa to the other room, opened up this room to appear to be more of a library study where reading and piano playing occur without the weight of wall to wall furniture. You are a gifted curator ❣️

[@k.crosbie261]

I always enjoying seeing your thought process as you make changes in your home. Sometimes you have to move things several times and your original idea doesn't always work but that also what makes it fun. I liked the green couch in the living room but also like the new setup with chairs and chest. Always fun to move things around and make changes.

[@carolynlunel9382]

I think that's called Tiger Oak.. and it probably shouldn't be painted. It's such a special piece! I love what you've done to lighten up all the spaces.. On the dog bookends..maybe you can try white wax on it? I'm not sure if that's the answer but if you don't like it you could always remove it. Thanks for this wonderful video.. it's all looking so beautiful and is thoughtfully done❤

[@lauragreen4899]

Love the secretary desk just as is. It looks beautiful against the dark wall color.

[@ginnysummers7018]

The secretary is Antique Tiger Oak wood and it's lovely!

[@jillboyd6598]

Sarah, I appreciate how humble you are about your decorating. I don't feel qualified to give an opinion about your space, especially since you always have sparkling ideas. It is helpful that you show us that you change your mind and redo things. I thought I was supposed to get it right the first time but alas, that is apparently not how it goes. Two years into some remodeling I'm started to think about things differently and consider changes. Cheers

[@smoothsailingmp]

Just being honest/ like a mother who wants to see her daughter thrive. In every aspect of life ..step back...way back and take a fresh look at everything....it doesn't have to be what is "in" right now to liok great❤

[@juliehall9167]

EXACTLY! Was just saying that I love it, but I don't think it's her style.

[@toniwadsworth7577]

Start collecting mirrors. Some of the older ones which have some of the mirrored glass fading are still really pretty and reflective if you put them up high . They do not always need to be used as a looking glass. I wonder if you could use a mirror above your piano ?

[@toniwadsworth7577]

There is a way to DIY a mirror to make it look antique. I like the look of faded, not too shiny mirrored surfaces. Candlelight would add some reflection after sundown. Would this fit into your Dark Academia space?

[@StelmaDesigns]

Oh, I like that idea!

[@toniwadsworth7577]

I would display sheet music on the music shelf. Look for classical music written by Beethoven, Mozart, Chopin. This is my own personal view of course but the piano is more than a piece of furniture. It is an instrument begging to be played! Music invites one to sit on the bench and play even if it is only “ Twinkle , twinkle little star “ which is a Mozart tune. So, make your piano inviting to musicians young and old. The piano bench should be comfortable. Put a cushion on your piano bench. Round antique piano stools which are adjustable by twisting up and down are so charming. Remember that piano benches and seats are places to sit so get creative ! 🎶

[@promethea79]

Try lightly dry brushing the dark dog bookends with a rub and buff. Nerdforge KZbin channel did this to a 3d sculpture in their fantasy studio makeover and it looked great. Drybrushing will keep the depth while beautifully highlighting the details of the bookends. Hope that helps! ❤

[@sallymoffit3751]

I love the changes you're making. I would not paint the desk or the bookends. Can you add a small antique lamp? Sconce?

[@cinder8290]

I believe my vote was for the lighter window coverings, I had a feeling it would be too dark.

[@georgannschultz3406]

The secretary looks like tiger oak. It is beautiful as is. Put some liquid gold on it and it will bring out the golden stripes and brighten it up.

[@julieberg8820]

Please don't paint that beautiful secretary! It's beautiful as it is. So special.

[@kellyr2984]

I appreciate that you honestly talk through changes and are not afraid to go a different direction. There is a joy in the journey.

[@meganblasco2]

Smart idea to switch out the curtains Have you considered using the curtains that had the cream background with the small block print pattern that used to be in the room They were so pretty and could meld the room colors and lighten the look of the room too Love your style💛

[@nancynoascono747]

Love your little secretary desk. Love all your decor. So homey looking!!

[@ETcallhome]

Oh please don't paint the secretary. Some things look dark because of the dark wall color, like the dog bookends. The gold frames pop in the dark room. I rethink things, too! You always encourage and inspire me. Thank you for sharing. Looking forward to the next video.

[@sheelahrayjohnson3324]

So glad to see the green couch moved out of the blue room! And brown curtains gone, too. Bravo!

[@denisesmith6359]

So glad you are lighting up the living room a bit. With the secretary desk you might try some light vintage wallpaper in the back of the cubbies

[@greenfaerie2039]

I did this with an antique, glass door cabinet I also didn't have the heart to paint. Worked out well.

[@92ives]

I have an antique bookcase that was given to me by my parents for my thirtieth birthday. It’s very dark and anything I put in it just disappeared. To lighten the interior I took a piece of corrugated cardboard and covered it with a light cream fabric using spray adhesive. It was a quick, easy and inexpensive project. It’s been twenty five years and still looks great however if I change my mind I just take the cardboard out since it’s not adhering to the interior.

[@harley8680]

I know the doors, windows and moldings are being painted the same are part of the whole Dark Academia thing, but I really think if those went back to a white it would help with the depressing feeling. Textiles, patterns on the windows, and throws may help and cozy lighting. I guess I would try and think cozy.

[@CarolinaSanz-qy3hz]

Don't Paint the desk.It's perfect

[@katiejon17]

I have been off of YT for a few months and had no idea that you changed things up to dark academia! It looks absolutely beautiful with the walls and all the trim painted blue! I am a ride-or-die "woods & white" girl (have been since being just a little girl in the 80's), but I adore seeing how beautiful others are able to make their homes. Lovely!

[@JShow78]

I completely trust your ability to allow the room to tell you what it needs. After all, you spend your days and nights living in and with the room. I often time think I’m heading in one direction then suddenly the room organically tells me to shift my focus/direction. I will add that I do really love the secretary, with it’s more leaning red stain and all ❤❤.

[@nydandydoodles5834]

Try lining the secretary desk with wrapping paper or wallpaper. I’ve used sticky tack for this and it’s easy to remove later. You might need more mood lighting and lamps around the room to cut the darkness at night and bring it up to cozy levels.

[@melaniemorris7757]

It's all coming together nicely. I love allowing a room to evolve. Love to shop my own home for pieces to accent another room. I love the collected look! I am a lover of lots of color and multiple prints. Maybe a few more?

[@Melody-285]

I know a lot of people love your blue walls, but that would have been the first thing I would have changed - lol

[@trinaroe5132]

I’m not done with the video yet, but here are my thoughts so far: 1) I prefer the existing artwork on the piano 2) Rather than painting the interior of the bookcase in the corner I would move the dog bookends and darker books there with the lighter interior for contrast 3) I thought the curtains were too dark when you talked about them before, so I agree with a lighter linen color 4) I personally prefer a light trim with dark walls - white or cream color for contrast. When you painted the trim dark I thought it was going to be too dark, but that may not be something you want to reverse now. 5) An Edison bulb, even without a shade, won’t give much light. You’d get more light with a regular soft white bulb and a light shade. 6) I’m betting a lot of these dark academia spaces probably have a lot of pot lights (which I personally don’t card for). I can’t remember how your ceiling trim is - could you add or move crown or cove molding away from the wall and ceiling so you could run some soft white LED strip lights hidden behind it that could bounce light up toward the ceiling throughout the room?

[@colettegjuka9604]

I'm not against painting some furniture, but I would not paint your lovely quarter sawn oak secretary desk. I have a similar dresser. The wood is beautiful the way it is, and fits in so nicely in your home. I wondered about dark academia here in the PNW, where so much of our year is dark. I went for lighter green walls instead because of that. But I'm sure you can compensate with lighting and accessories. It could feel very cozy and snug.

[@traceyhudson5883]

Loving your vid on rearranging- it's a favorite seasonal shake-up for me, too. Two tips for changing surfaces without permanent alteration- For your dog bookends, have you tried Rub N Buff? It's a durable wax that comes in several shades of gilt but removes with alcohol if ever necessary. I've gilded several metal lamps, then lightly dabbed brown tinted wax into crevices for an extra aged look with good success. Brown tinted wax might also be perfect for knocking back the red tones of your quarter-sawn oak desk (I've taken a few reddish pieces down to browner tones in this way). It's current finish looks good, and it would be so permanent to paint it. Light curtains would be a beautiful contrast in your living room... full-on dark academia may be one of those styles that is beautiful, but hard to live with 24/7. Surely there is a happy medium between Light and Dark Academia? Thank you for taking us along on your journey..

[@LaurieMo-vx1bm]

I love the direction you've gone in. Of course I loved it all white too. I especially love the lighter drapes in there, that was my choice when you put it out for a vote. Here's some of my thoughts for what they are worth. For that lampshade, what about using some opaque velum (even if you have to use 2 or 3 thicknesses of it to get the right diffusion of light) to get that effect? Instead of a "bulletin" board, what about a mirror with a beautiful frame with some ribbed fabric ribbon across it, so it will serve as a bulletin board, but will reflect and bring light into that corner but still be true to the Academia feel and your beautiful pictures will look perfect on it. For the black dog bookends, what about a dry brush of gold rather than a full coverage of gold. It will give you the look of age but be more subtle. Love the coral and the collected pieces, too.

[@pamrodman4444]

Love the transfer ware!!!! Also the cream colored drapes in living area really brightens it up!!! Love it!

[@giselameyn2019]

Don't gild the dogs. Try painting them creme first. And add some nice, friendly wallpaper behind the "stretchmark" secretary. I would change the artwork above the piano and maybe put the beautiful "Bless" sign somewhere in the hallway or next to the entry,. And I would really consider having more plants and bouquets - I find that very uplifting :-) Good luck!

[@ThriftingInteriors]

Love the wall color! Moody rooms need a lot of warm and dim lights to look good at night.

[@Melinda.pendleton]

Thank you for sharing your beautiful transformation! It makes all of your wood pieces and your white pieces pop! I have been over the white interior design decor along time ago, and I am so happy to see this improvement In your decor! It looks very old time English, beautiful choice of colors. Beautiful choice of decor! Everything looks awesome!

[@pastorcdb4247]

I have several thoughts:1) I love your new placement of furniture with trunk and chairs. 2) I Love the secretary desk as is, not painted, open or closed according to how you feel in the moment. The darker furniture is so classy and upscale, it makes a beautiful statement. 3) I agree on painting the cabinet/shelf darker inside and out. The starkness of the white interior of the cabinet and the small table seem to clash with the style and mood that you are setting. I love the glass jar, but it looks like it would be better suited in a Coastal styled room with sea shells, or farmhouse style with flour, sugar or cookies in it in the kitchen. :) How about a Transferware Oval Platter sitting inside instead. A large reproduction Brass Hour-glass would also look nice. (I saw one in TJ Max a few months ago). 4) I think a small classic antique table, possibly with a marble top would be awesome instead of the white table. A Brass planter with faux Hobby Lobby greenery spilling over and/or a small antique lamp on top. And a vintage, gilded card game (I have a set) would fit the setting with the two awesome chairs. 5) I like the idea of recovering the chairs, possibly to coordinate with your beautiful pillows in your window seat - (which I also love). Your suggestion of the raw wood and waxed would probably be lovely, but also consider refinishing with fresh, dark stain and wax. 6) How about a large English style Hunting Scene with Dogs in a beautiful frame above one of your desks. The black dog bookends look classy as is! And a smaller antique landscape above the secretary instead of the shelf which I really like, but seems more farmhouse style to me. I enjoy and look forward to watching your channel. I love to decorate... I hope I didn't "talk" too much! :)

[@garymcdade4446]

What is your opinion about FUNCTION in that room?

[@marciafirst2271]

You collect calendars-I collect old maps. I don’t have enough wall space for all of them, but I think it’s the dreamer in me that loves them so much. I must admit-I really, really like the brown windowpane curtains, but I understand how dark it might be at night. One idea you might try is using a double curtain rod to put the creamy curtains behind the brown ones. Or you could make a Roman shade from the creamy fabric to inset on the inside of the window.

[@shellybell7240]

I sure appreciate you walking us through your thought processes. Thank you! I love your style, and I also love watching you put things together. I do the same thing. It all comes as we go….one thing morphing into another. We have one idea in the beginning of a project, but are free to change. I think that is where our personal style is realized!! Thanks, again! (I personally would not paint the quartersawn oak piece. It is so rich in character.)

[@johnnacrist8715]

I like the idea of the White linen curtains!! The darkness would bother me too. Last winter, I bought an antique high boy dresser with the same type of wood. I do believe it’s a tiger oak. I gave it a good washing, and then sealed it with a nontoxic wax.

[@whatlolawants2167]

Hello Sweetie, I'm wondering how the setup in the living room is working for y'all not just astetictly as a family room without the couch? I personally loved the green in the space. I would definitely paint the book ends so you could change your mind at a further date. I love your transferware, it's very beautiful. I also had a thought, would Peel and Stick wallpaper hurt the Secretary?

[@juliehall9167]

I really love the green velvet sofa in there, too! I think she was headed in the right direction but just isn't ready for dark academia. It doesn't seem to be her natural style and she's fighting trying to make it happen (maybe thinking it's what her audience wants to see?) Personally, I loved where she WAS going - hoping she gets back on track and uses her professional skills to pull this through! She's such a sweetheart - I hate seeing her struggling.

[@wishesinthewillowtree5278]

Sarah, your beautiful desk is tiger oak. The markings are reminiscent of the stripes on a tiger. Oak has high grains and low grains. Paint has a way of getting trapped or absorbed into the low grains. It is difficult to get paint out of the low grains if you get tired of the color and want to one day refinish it. I've heard you speak of going through a hard time with the passing of your mom. I've heard a change in the tone of your voice. I worry this new design is not something that truly makes you happy. You've used the word depressing. I enjoy your videos so much. I look forward to them. I wonder if your heart needs more time to heal before before undertaking such a drastic change. Maybe you need a minute to breathe. You've gone through great sadness.

[@juliehall9167]

I agree, totally. You can feel her heartache. She is such a sweetheart.

[@copperpenny0209]

When I think of dark academia, I think of a more masculine style with plaids, leather, bar cart, cigars, old books, which is becoming. You have a lot of masculine elements in the room; however, I don't think of lighter fabrics such as the lighter curtains. That seems more farmhouse style along with the white painted piano. I much prefer the darker curtains you have up. I love a dark and moody room at night with mood lighting. It's mysterious and cozy. I love the color of the walls, but the contrast of the lighter curtains is off for me.

[@stonecottageadventures304]

The simplest way to lighten the space beneath the TV is to pull the books and dog bookends forward and add lighter object(s) behind them. Ideas are: plants, faux greenery, dried greenery, mirror, tray, plates/chargers, architectural salvage piece, etc. I think you will regret permanently alterring the bookends.

[@angelabastida6223]

Love the green couch against the lighter walls, I would keep the picture in the piano as it is and the ivory curtains made the room pop, beautifully!

[@LausDeoLiving]

Oh what a gorgeous dramatic space

[@UMVELINQANGI]

Your dark living room is very handsome and chic. The key to making such spaces cozier (especially at night) is lighting. A light in every corner is a must, the more light the better. Lamps, sconces and picture lights specifically, not overhead lighting. And of course, all lights should be on dimmers. I think you would enjoy this room much more in the evenings with generous layered lighting. And a well placed mirror or two is always helpful. Just a suggestion. Cheers!

[@JLee-pc2vc]

I use my antique dishes every day. I think you'll enjoy using yours more often. Look at F&B French Gray or Treron for your cabinets. I used French gray on my kitchen island and Treron on my front door. They are both really yummy greens! I like the black and white photo for the piano. I think the Ballard lampshade looks too modern for your home. You could Rub n Buff the dog bookends with the Gold Leaf color first as a test. Then if you don't like it you can always spray paint them back dark, but if you do like them then you could go ahead and guild them. Your Dark Academia living room looks very elegant, but I can see how it might feel depressing at night or on cloudy days. Have you been at all tempted to go back to cream walls? That green sofa does look really pretty against cream.

[@robinnieto2703]

I love the dog bookends as they are but if you want them to stand out more, maybe dry brush some antique bronze or gold and then lightly sand off to give it a worn look. Not the entire thing but some high points. Your home is beautiful!

[@lolitamurch]

I would leave the dark colored art on the piano, love the idea of your birds nest in the cloche’s but consider catching a butterfly or two and what you can do put them in a jar with a cotton ball that has nail polish remover then that will get them where they don’t beat their wings to tatters then you can use a straight pin to poke through their body and poke into side of nest or desired items. I used to have collected branches with interest to the bark and then had nest and butterflies until a earthquake ruined them from the top of my kitchen cabinets.

[@jillgaddis3889]

The lighter curtains are looking the best, Please do NOT paint the desk. I looks so good. I am not sure why folks don't like the "orange" of wood. Maybe we should embrace the color. Find ways to compliment the colors. Adding lighter colored items would brighten corners too. I like the iron look of the dog bookends. I am wondering if you find themes for your tableaus on your shelves and tables, not be corny of course but it would bring your eye to the interesting items. A reading corner with books and a plant then maybe add attractive coasters for your intended tea/coffee/sherry glasses or cup. Make it inviting to sit and stay. I like the blue color on the walls and the "orange" wood compliments the blue. Dark academia is not for everyones' home, but I find it cozy and inviting. I do not like bare lightbulbs too much glare. Add soft corner lighting to bring people into the room Maybe sell the desk and find something you like better.

[@TheDivabird1]

Yes, the secretary desk is Tiger wood, very beautiful!!

[@sarahbarr5149]

You can always put light xolored paper at the back of each of the secretary desk sections. I did ours that way. Nothing permanent. Use some mirrors to add light.

[@roxannegreenway9567]

To keep your academia moody look, add lamps with gilded or gold painted shades with warm bulbs. Add all books in book shelves with random book spines and pages exposed. Paint frame of the white chairs with gold paint and reupholster the white seats in the fabric of the brown pane drapes. Bring the sofa back into the room. I cherish wood furniture so I would not paint them but rub n buff any hardware on them. Since the piano has been painted then paint it black with gold trim. Accessories on the flat surfaces can always be changed out with paint and rub n buff.

[@pearlg6411]

You've done a beautiful job creating a dark academia scheme, but playing with your accessories in a bright accent color (which you could easily change seasonally) would lighten things up without losing the theme. I'd choose something like a complementary shade of lavender or orange or mustard yellow by switching small things out like the books on the side table, a paperweight on a desk, pull chains on lamps, artwork, etc.

[@louisebyrd7509]

Secretary desk: What if you cut decorative paper to shape and put inside the cubbies? Stiff paper (scrapbook or wallpaper) and just the size that it would stay without glue.

[@susanrodriguez7168]

Thank you for the beautiful tour you helped me decide to keep my dark walls and gave me some fresh ideas ,most of all encouragement

[@scc6454]

I think the consensus is Do Not Paint the Secretary! And I agree wholeheartedly because the wood is beautiful and I don't see it very much. I love the look of wood against blue, it warms it up nicely, like trees against sky!

[@brookebeasterfeld5107]

Lots of good ideas, you have given me inspiration too. Thanks. I love your design ideas. Have a blessed day.

[@gwenwade6059]

Lamps for every dark corner. It is a season. A Phillips SAD light for depression related to low light.

[@thepennycrafters7616]

Totally on the same page with you with all the little changes. Moving the couch, great idea. Now it really stands out. Absolutely. Love the chairs with the trunk and cream curtains! I'm also a calendar lover, makes me feel happy inside. Can't pin down why❤. Nostalgic almost. I think you're really fine-tuning things

[@rhondabogart3133]

You could use peel & stick wallpaper to brighten up the inside of the secretary, which would leave the finish intact

[@abigailh7715]

Your asthetic is gorgeous! I love this style of decor. You have great taste

[@rachelm9925]

No paint!!!! Beautiful room. I have just made the decision to buy similar coloured sofas to your chairs and have a dark blue room- this has made me confirm my choices thank you!

[@JennaDPhotographyAK]

As pretty as those gilded bookends in your inspo are I'd try adding some rub and buff to enhance the details of your dog bookends to lighten them first. If it's not enough you could then try the gilding. And if you go back for that book set put them between the dogs for a lighter look as the ones you currently have with them are pretty dark. I think swapping out the piano art is a good idea to help balance light and dark. And I agree with others - don't paint the secretary! Maybe there is a treatment to reduce the orange and lighten it a big but keep the wood grain? Also, what about adding in some candles inside unique vintage finds for some additional cozy brightness?

[@karonnichols4558]

Love the changes! The recliners with the trunk, perfect. The lighter curtains are nice. I especially liked the block print ones. The green sofa is stunning in the fireside room. Is there room for the piano in the fireroom? Painting the bookcase darker is a good idea and inside as well so it wont look nautical. Also, placing some moody artwork and antiques on the shelves would look beautiful. I vote keeping the dogs black and the secretary unpainted.

[@julijopeterson7096]

I love the color blue. I was surprised when you painted that room (the living room I think) blue but especially a dark blue. I thought for me it would just be too dark all the time. So I watched you pull it all together & it was beautifully done. It was really interesting especially the darker green couch with the lighter green pillows which I really liked. They weren’t quite puce, a color I absolutely love but would never be brave enough to put in my home, but they were a light green. Close enough. All that you did with that space Sarah was again beautiful. I think we all learned a lot watching you create it. Me personally I wouldn’t paint the secretary desk. Do you think if you just took the stain off of it to leave it natural that would be bad? It’d probably be too light though & throw everything off in the room.

[@JanetSims-q4s]

You could change out your front door to more glass in it.

[@StelmaDesigns]

I think the wood pattern on your secretary is tiger oak? I would never paint that or really any beautiful antique wood, but that's me and I know you like to paint wood. I also love the dog book ends black. You may get tired of a lot of gilt in years to come and the black will never get dated, perhaps? I loved the brown curtains but I have to agree, to lighten up the room in the PNW dreary winters, the lighter curtains look very lovely. How you have the energy to do this ongoing is beyond me, hahaha! My living room walls are the same color they have been for years even though I do redecorate the room here and there. Very inspiring I will say! oxJulia

[@edithbryan8058]

Hello - 1. I think painting the bookshelf a darker blue as you suggest, and then applying a William Morris wallpaper (such as "Bird" in Webb's Blue or "Snakeshead" in Indigo/Cumin) would bring interest and life to the bookcase. I'm not sure the beadboard backing fits in with the Dark Acedemia style very well. 2. I think the dog bookends would be beautiful if they were painted with an antique gold or bronze paint (not a bright gold). That way if you don't like it or want to change it later, it wouldn't be permanent like gilding. 3. I wonder if it would be worth considering staining the secretary to diminish the striped (Tiger Oak, I'm guessing) woodgrain without covering it with paint. You have a number of painted surfaces and pieces (the window seat, bookcase, piano, and paneling) and I think it would be a lot of painted surface area. If the secretary is a dark paint, it might blend in with the walls, and if it's light it will be another bright contrast like the piano, which might seem jarring to the eye. 4. Although not my style, I wonder about a victorian style silk/fabric shade for the floor lamp (maybe with some fringe trim?). That would seem to fit the overall style you're going for in this room. 5. As for the window treatments, have you considered a silk or silk look drape in a soft green shade? It might be a way to bring in the green color in a fabric that also reflects light... I like the green sofa with the gilded table in the fireside room. If you don't like the size of the table, maybe a smaller scale, rectangular, gilded one would fit better. Your videos are very interesting and I enjoy watching (and learning!) as you work through the updates. This seems to be a particularly tricky style and you are bringing it together beautifully!

[@janithmathews4195]

I think your shelf looks good painted white on the inside, bringing more light in. I like the paint looking lighter than your walls in the light. It looks good since it is the same tone.

[@inglishhomeandgarden8386]

You could paint the inside of the corner shelf in the dark door colour, for a cohesive look. Maybe use a splash of that dark black (?) door colour with the blue, to tone it down a degree? Old brown leather books would look so good with it.

[@karenrozanski9231]

Exchange your twp small round tables in each room. Throw a tan scarf casually over the white one when put next to the white piano for contrast. Do not paint the secretary. Enjoyed this video. Calming.

[@CeresaJL]

Love the subtle changes. They seemed to really make a difference without changing the overall look. I think painting the inside of the secretary is a good idea but have you considered using a furniture balm to freshen up the smell or possibly using a furniture transfer instead? Both are great options. I personally love the dixxii bell tobacco flower wax. How did the chairs come out? Did the cleaner work? You have quite a lovely home.

[@smoothsailingmp]

We use Folex all the time....even in our carpet cleaning machine. We keep a small squirt bottle in my purse to use on spot at the restaurant on his shirt/ my blouse, etc. Ha Ha. Ages 82 and 80 respectively....as a prewash ....until we get hime....have been using it for years....luv it. We ger it in a one gallon container to keep our apray bottle full....great on counters....we have formica counters....as a pre wash on carpet after vacuuming...we spray the the traffic areas throughout the house ...then use the machine. We have a med light grey carpet. .

[@sherrycenterfield7236]

To help lighten your room and keep the moodiness, you might try mercury or smoky glass panels on one wall. It would add reflection of light without being too bright.

[@garymcdade4446]

That is a 1980's idea.

[@robinbirdj743]

I think that’s tiger oak. So pretty. If you want to paint, please coat well by painting with 2 coats of shellac as primer. That will protect the wood from paint seeping into the pores.

[@DianeCorbeille-s2b]

Black and white over piano. The tiger wood on desk is beautiful. I'd put some brass and glass knickknacks on the desk, something shiny. Like the books at the store since they are lighter.

[@patriciareeps3389]

I would keep the artwork on the piano. I certainly would not paint the secretary. That looks like an antique. I would use light curtains to keep the room a little brighter. I prefer light bright rooms so I can’t offer too much advice, I understand some people love the dark look but during the winter it would be very depressing for me

[@libertyblueskyes2564]

Dark Academia is a trend and trends get tiring. Your dark walls could pop better if the trim was painted a light cream. Also a beautiful floral print for curtains would be more interesting.

[@Tanja1936]

Gorgeous!! I would do the dog bookends in an antique gold rub and buff! Everything you've done so far is perfection.❤

[@AbigailsArtfulAbode]

Lots of table lamps and low lighting would make it look cozier in the evening instead of gloomy, also gold and brass accents.

[@katieelle5865]

I would absolutely love a diy video on making a lamp shade. I am going to attempt making one myself. Would be nice to see how you do it.

[@robinmiller8728]

Have you seen tutorials for linen wrapped books? This may be a solution for your eclectic books in the secretary desk.

[@danielleanderson1341]

How about rub and buff on the dog bookends? Liking the cream curtains! Keep the darker artwork on the piano.

[@bina_5]

I didn’t know that Folex could be used on upholstery but I’ve used it many times on carpets and it works wonders. I really love the dark academia. Definitely switch out the piano art, the black and white feels more sophisticated IMO

[@elizabethfinn1325]

The secretary looks tiger wood. I would leave it as it is . Love the whole look!

[@heatherstrachan107]

Your secretary is quarter sawn (I would say oak) it's actually a more expensive material to use than plain sawn. I'm a cabinetmaker by trade, it's funny I've never thought of it looking like stretch marks but now that you've mentioned it I'll probably never be able to think of it any other way! 😄

[@lorrem2539]

I am not a minimalist, but I DO believe anything in the house should be useful as well as pretty. I agree that you should definitely use those beautiful plates. As for the books, have you ever thought of just using a plain or decorative paper to cover them? Then as your taste changes, you can re-cover them. This is purely my opinion, but your living room is trying to be too many things. Do you really need the desk, the piano, all the little tables? All the pieces are beautiful, but they don't really speak to each other in a cohesive way. Bring the couch back in and put a nice, patterned throw on it so it doesn't get lost in the blue wall. Keep the leather chairs and add nice, patterned pillows, a nice coffee table or use the gilded bamboo one you redid. Keep the trunk to use with the leather chairs, depending on where you put them, of course. And add some real plants. I used to thrift small furniture pieces all the time, because they were the most affordable items, but then I just had too many little things filling up my spaces. It was hard getting rid of things that I had repurposed and painted, but my rooms look so much better now. I had been collecting things for when I was able to afford a remodel. Once I was able to tear down a wall, put wood floors in and get rid of the popcorn ceiling, it was so much fun to bring out all that stuff and put it to use. Some stayed, some just didn't work. I found out that I needed to stick with the style I really loved (modern/eclectic) and quit trying to make it something else. I can't wait to see what your finished rooms look like!

[@lauradavis8921]

Definitely lightning the curtains up is going to make a difference. Also think that for the lampshade could you use like a wicker. It might not go with dark academia but I do feel like it is eclectic like you were looking for. I feel like maybe The door should be lightened up. It seems like almost a different color than the walls but also it could have been the lighting. Maybe even changing the color of that all together. All in all I give you thumbs up for sticking with dark academia... When it seems later shades are more popular. It's nice to see variety.