Finally, a new semester has befallen Nevermore Academy, meaning Wednesday Addams (Jenna Ortega) is back for another season, following the show's initial success in 2022. As one might expect from a series inspired by The Addams Family, the celebrated Netflix original is no stranger to gothic, Dark Academia-inspired interiors. However, there is more to this set than the conventional.
While decorating with black paint and haunted antiques are expected details, Wednesday's second season has revived some utterly timeless furnishings and aesthetics that transcend design trends.
From retro rattan to chintz, to design ideologies like the Unexpected Red Theory, the newest episodes are a celebration of beautiful decorating ideas that will resonate with you long after you finish binge-watching.
Over the last few years, I've written about thousands of celebrity homes and TV and film sets, but Wednesday's latest season is already one of my favorites. Here are the top five unmissable spots that I hope you enjoy as much as I do, whether you're watching or not.
1. Rattan furniture is a timeless investment
It's not often that design experts can label something as timeless, but in the case of rattan, this statement rings true.
This versatile material popularized Western interiors in the mid-19th century, during the Victorian era, before surging again in the 1960s and 1970s – aligning with the bohemian, nature-loving, and casual vibes of that period. Most recently, in the 2010s–2020s, rattan resurged in desirability as part of the broader move toward sustainable, natural materials, and its power is showing no signs of wavering. Wednesday revisits this classic, with a gothic twist.
Morticia Addams's black chair replaces rattan's traditionally beachy or rustic feel with a sleek, contemporary alternative. While natural rattan has a relaxed appearance, black rattan feels more tailored, chicer, and more formal. It's equal parts spooky and elegant, exactly like the show itself.
2. The Unexpected Red Theory prevails
If I were to choose one design ideology that stands out from 2024, it would be the Unexpected Red Theory. In summary, it's a design principle that refers to the idea of adding a small, unexpected pop of red in a space to instantly elevate its design, making it feel more intentional, balanced, or dynamic.
In the case of Wednesday, the theory comes into play when Morticia Addams gets the keys to an abandoned estate, named Rotwood Cottage, and decides to decorate.
The redesigned space offers much to admire (more on the fringed lampshades later), but the red velvet sofa epitomizes the red theory perfectly. It's the ultimate statement piece, if you dare to follow suit (I just might).
Shop the look
Built with a solid birch wood frame, this velvet upholstery sofa is the first step to mastering the Wednesday look with style. It's decorated with diamond button tufting on the back and arms, and it has a nailhead trim along the bottom edge, for the ultimate nod to luxury.
This scalloped Victorian-style lamp shade features decorative fringe, adding vintage charm to a living room, the Morticia way. Its timeless bell shape enhances table, floor, and pendant lamps while making a dark but beautiful statement.
This subtly stunning wine glass will add a touch of red to any tablescape. It's handmade from Murano glass by Venetian artisans and has a contrasting red stem traced with green stripes. Mix and match yours with other colored glass for a vibrant cocktail party.
3. Chintz curtains don't need to feel dated
With its lush floral motifs, natural themes, and repetitive layouts, chintz can risk feeling slightly audacious or outdated. However, there's a reason this pattern prevails. Chintz evokes a sense of tradition and refinement.
Its intricate designs harken back to antique interiors, bringing a sense of history to the most modern homes. It can also feel dream-like, especially when used on curtians, as we see on Wednesday.
Since curtains often serve as a focal point in a room, chintz lends itself beautifully when paired with natural light. Sunlight brings this pattern to life, just as the above scene reminds us.
4. Fringed detailing is an Art Deco essential
As promised, I came back to talk about fringed detailing. When used on lights (think tassels or hanging strands along the edges of lampshades or pendants), this detail instantly evokes Hollywood glamor, especially that of the Art Deco era.
Art Deco decor is one of 2025's biggest trends, but the use of fringed detailing in Wednesday implies this aesthetic will be just as fashionable for the year ahead.
The fringe feels gothic, historical, and rich. Its sense of motion and ornamentation reflects Art Deco’s fascination with the era's sensuality and kinetic energy, making it one of the most playful pieces to introduce to your living room. If this look is high on Mortica's wishlist, it deserves a place in my home, too. Wouldn't you agree?
5. Rugs belong outdoors
Outdoor rugs are increasingly common, but as impractical as these pieces may initially appear, they just might surprise you. The aesthetic appeal of a rug is undeniable, but aside from that, they're surprisingly functional.
Many outdoor surfaces, like concrete, wood, or tile, can be uncomfortable, but adding a rug makes them so much more inviting and usable, even barefoot. If you invest in a durable rug (that's both strong and easy to clean), it will last through the seasons, and come up fresh for another year of outdoor socializing.
Pair it with a rattan chair (naturally), for the ultimate Wednesday-inspired look that will upgrade your porch in time for the spookiest season. My mind is already there.
