Decorating in the Western Gothic Aesthetic

Decorators are noticing a preference for dark, moody hues in designing spaces for their clients. One of these styles is Western Gothic. Both Western and Gothic have unique style qualities, and you can expect to see them on full display in Western Gothic interior decor. To achieve this style, you should be aware of the following signature elements:

The right colors

Dark, somber colors are the first step in creating the right vibe. Paint a statement wall in dark colors like black or dark chocolate to project a moody aura in the space. Charcoal, olive green, mocha or rust are secondary choices for accent walls. Consider using a Roman clay plaster finish to add texture to the room by simulating stucco, stone or marble. The plaster is applied with a putty knife or trowel in thin overlapping layers to create the rustic Western effect. Use accent walls to showcase Western-inspired artwork, such as photographs of cowhands and cattle.

Noting the details

Collecting Western details and finishes to add to the room is half the fun. Look for vintage or new pieces of furniture in natural wood. Place a faux cowhide print or sheepskin area rug underneath a dark leather chair. You can also add fringe or studded details to the chair for an antique feel. Hang Texas Longhorn prints or an imitation pair of horns on the wall above a fireplace or over an entranceway. If you want to go all in, seek out taxidermy mounts of small birds and game animals. Balance the Western decor with Gothic materials such as velvet, lace and faux fur. For a softer, more romantic Gothic vibe, add candles in candlesticks of varying sizes, shapes and materials. Don’t forget to mix ornate Gothic gilded mirrors and picture frames with your decor.

Background is key

Bring the natural world into your home with desert plants such as cacti and succulents. Place smaller plants on shelves and tabletops. Larger cacti can become a focal point in the room. Tumbleweed is showing up in unique ways to capture the rustic of the Wild West. Large tumbleweeds are being used to create jaw-dropping chandeliers. Groupings of small tumbleweeds create interesting decor when arranged in Western-themed decorative bowls.

Western Gothic may not work for everyone. If you want to test it out, decorate smaller rooms such as powder rooms, libraries, offices, dens or hallways. Start with painting an accent wall in a deep color that can be changed if it turns out not to suit you. Hanging Western Gothic-themed art like posters or prints from the Old West on your walls gives you another way to test the water.

Western Gothic decor derives its inspiration from the romantic Old West and the moody Gothic aesthetic. Contact us when you are ready to “saddle up” and embrace the bold beauty of Western Gothic interiors.

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