Whether a movie buff, gamer, or a book worm, everyone has a special realm of fantasy world aesthetic that speaks to their soul. As anyone who has even brushed the surface of fantasy knows, the types of ambience are so vast.
Of all these worlds, most tend to fall in common settings and themes which we’ll explore today. With this breakdown, you can discover which fantasy world aesthetic will keep you immersed even when the movie ends or the final page is turned.
With Endless Options, Where Should I Start?
This exploration begins with some general spheres of fantasy worlds. Then from there, through specific sub-genres, you can dive deeper into the aesthetic which resonates with you.
Whether you want small hints of your favorite imaginary domain or a full home makeover, you’ll find ideas to make your fantasy a reality. Or, instead you might find inspiration that launches you into an even deeper dimension. Adventure awaits!
High, or Epic, Fantasy
In worlds very unlike our own, epic fantasies transport you places with an entirely different feel. This could include a new landscape, universe, culture, race, political structure, and anything else the author’s creativity decides.
High fantasy stories tend towards adventurous plots where there is a lot at stake. So, if you enjoyed The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien or The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson, you’re in the right spot.
Bringing The Epic Fantasy World Aesthetic Home
To incorporate a high fantasy feel, set your mind to earthy tones and provincial vibes. These are warm colors that can include brighter colors to embrace a heroic theme. On the other hand, darker colors can bring a tone of weight for a journey or intensity of adventure.
So think of untamed, majestic landscapes, and intricate, often gothic, structures. Elements typically have a very clear “good vs. evil” feel to them, and you get to decide which side you are on.
- Books (commonly leather-bound, old, and/or tattered)
- Warm lighting with lanterns or candles
- Baubles of glass or wood, mysterious gems or stones
- Aged mirrors, framed or unframed
- Weathered maps
- Scrolls, quills and inkwells
- Rustic items composed of worn leather or wood
- Wizard staffs or unique walking sticks
Adding a Touch of Romantasy
Most fantasy romance occurs within epic worlds and adding a few of these touches will hone an aesthetic that is more intimate. For this vibe you can go with cozy or chic. Add more candles, a vase of flowers, cozy blankets, or a coffee table setting for two.
Urban and Modern Fantasy World Aesthetic
This fictional genre is typically based in familiar environments either modern and/or urban. Hidden magics as well as incorporation of magical creatures are common and this is an aesthetic easier to meld seamlessly into your life.
We’re thinking along the lines of The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare and War for the Oaks by Emma Bull. And, there are SO many series that cover vigilante or detective stories within the realm of modern fantasy.
So whether you are wanting to shout your fandom from the rooftops or keep it subtle and secret, here are some options to explore. Here’s where we add magic to the mundane.
- Modern lighting fixtures
- A small crown or coat of arms
- Seemingly normal wall art with a subtle touch of the bizarre
- Figurine of mystical creature from your favorite story
- A mirror “portal”
- Mythological and astronomy baubles
- A secret compartment book to put in plain sight
Faeries and Fables
If magical creatures and enchantments draw you in, then the fantasy world aesthetic of anything fairy or cottage will feel just like home. From complex magical systems to simple whimsical spells, you can pick the parts that suit you best.
For the fairy folk who enjoy The Spiderwick Chronicles by Holly Black or rather Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett, there are all things wings and wile.
- Twinkling lights, string or individual
- Silk or dried flower garlands and accents
- Plant terrariums
- Mini herb garden
- Vining houseplants
- Mystical crystals or stones
- Forest wall art
- Dreamcatchers
Cottagecore Fantasy World Aesthetic
You might enjoy the cottagecore vibe if you like those cozy, simple life stories that trade intensity for mystery and whimsy. If The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett or The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst felt like a heart hug, this is your fantasy world aesthetic.
So, set yourself up with natural elements that pair with cozy rural style life to separate you from the hustle and bustle.
- Handmade blanket (quilted, crochet, knit)
- Small watercolor paintings of nature
- Floral tea set
- Potted herbs and flowers
- Mushroom decor – pillow, shelving, dishes
- Wooden rocking chair or fluffy cozy chair
- Botanical wall art
- Vase of wildflowers (fresh, silk, dried)
Dark Fantasy + Academia
Take the imaginary then add grim settings, moral ambiguity, and maybe a touch of violence, and you get dark fantasy. This exciting and moody genre can feel edgy but also holds the excitement you’ll find in The Nevernight Chronicles by Jay Kristoff, American Gods by Neil Gaiman, and The First Law by Joe Abercrombie.
Although academia fantasy can fall across many other categories of fantasy, we’ll include it here as it is a common carryover into dark fantasy. You can seep deep into the fantasy of your choice with these elements that mix the gothic and scholastic.
- Tall slender candles (think dripping wax look)
- Rustic lighting fixtures with cool and dim light
- Figurine of a raven, rat, spider, or skull
- Macabre potion/tonic bottles
- Wall decor featuring wrought-iron & gothic tones
- Simulated stone textures
- Green or red velvet pillows
- A weathered globe
Sci-fi Fantasy
If you enjoyed books like Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams or Dune by Frank Herbert, let’s dive into the universe of sci-fi. It’s amazing how science fiction can cover so many concepts but there are certain fantasy pieces that will stand out.
In order to work in this element of magic mixed with technology we’re often drawn to an aesthetic that feels futuristic, sleek, and geometric. Take the elements you like and add others!
- Modern, minimalistic globe
- Shiny, metallic light fixtures
- Plasma ball
- Wall decor – space portal window, mechanical diagrams
- Coffee table with a faux industrial look
- Figurines of favorite sci-fi creatures or props
- Panel style light “switch” plate
- Sleek minimal furniture pieces
Final Thoughts on Your Fantasy World Aesthetic
The possibilities are endless but we hope you have a good start now on how to bring your favorite fiction realm into your home. Take the bits and pieces that call to you and explore more!
About the Author
Anna is a twenty-something living in the south. She's passionate about family, crafting, and continuing her education beyond her college degree.