Library Transitional Living Room, London

What it is not, however, is a Gothic macabre dungeon. Think sexy not scary, and intriguing not intimidating. It’s not about a theme so much as a feeling — a sultry, dark undertone to the everyday rooms you inhabit. So go ahead. Here’s how to get darkly romantic in your own home.Why it works: Darkly romantic spaces envelop you in a feeling of mystique and elegance removed from the day-to-day challenges of the world. They embody a feeling of introspection and long-lost memories. It’s a misty-morning view of the world from a window framed in velvet curtains. You’ll love it if … Your favorite time of the day is the dusk before nightfall, you’re entranced with shadows thrown by flickering candlelight, you read Pablo Neruda poetry and keep old love letters stashed for rainy day remembering. You have a slightly subversive side that plays well with your well-tailored exterior, and the thought of bold, bright colors or country cottage chic gives you the shivers.

In a very dark space, hits of white become especially important to help reflect light. (Notice how the white elements here appear even brighter than the mirror.) White furniture in this case also helps draw the eye into the center of the room, which can visually shrink the space. But if the intention is a moody effect, a dash of clean white will amp up the sophistication and make the look feel self-assured.