This Quiet Corner of Johnny Galecki's Home Masters the Art of 'Circus Chic' – it Shouldn't Work, But it Does
The Big Bang Theory actor upgrades a simple corner of his home using bold wallpaper, artwork, and an unexpected accent chair
I'll admit that 'circus chic' has never claimed a spot on my mood board before, but Johnny Galecki's Nashville home might just have swayed me. There's one space that I can't stop thinking about: showcasing a vintage armchair, a marble fireplace, and some spectacular striped wallpaper, it's a real sight to behold.
It's likely the stripes that bring a circus to mind, but there's nothing childlike or kitschy about this space. In fact, the wallpaper blends dramatic black columns with gold leaf – a print that's cleverly echoed by matching lampshades on a rustic wall sconce, and there's a definitively Gothic air to every detail.
Shop the Johnny Galecki-Inspired Edit
You don't need to add opulent gold wallpaper or a vintage armchair to channel Johnny's look; I'd start with a striped decor piece like the Wade Logan two-tone lamp from Wayfair, styled with some earthy ceramics like CB2's Canale green vase, and some faux stems, of course.
Bring some stripes into your space with this table lamp. The woven texture adds an organic feel, while the tall, tapered base feels striking and contemporary.
If you're wondering how to style a mantelpiece, there's always space for a stylish candle and a gorgeous cloche like this one. I love the ribbed details.
Johnny's side table features a ceramic figurine and a vase just like this one. The green hue compliments the earthy shade of the mantelpiece, adding some dimension to the color palette.
No matter your preferred design style, every space can be elevated with some greenery. Johnny tucks a few sprawling stems into his vase for an extra dose of drama.
This abstract print incorporates both red and gold hues, making it a brilliant addition to a Gothic-inspired scheme like Jonny's. It's a real statement piece.
Johnny's corner is softened by the channel-back armchair and matching pillow – and if you're keen to recreate the look, start with a plush, round cushion like this one.
To me, Johnny Galecki's Nashville home brings the whimsigoth interiors trend to life – with a dash of luxury thrown in. While it's awash with dramatic colors and vintage finds, there's a feeling of opulence that accompanies the eccentricity.
The gold wallpaper is, naturally, the star of the show, and it adds real grandeur to this simple corner. Combined with the stunning wood floors and the marble fireplace, the space could easily feel imposing, but this is where careful styling comes in.
Take the armchair for example: finished in soft neutral fabrics with a curved silhouette, it lends the room a sense of softness. And with the brighter tones of the artwork above, this moody space is imbued with energy and personality.
Gothic interiors can be breathtaking, but they can also feel a little ominous or dark. To me, Johnny's decision to bring lustrous gold leaf together with pale beige seating is what elevates this space, introducing a touch of brightness while still preserving a cozy atmosphere.
According to Molly Cody, Founder of RESET Interiors, it's this artful contrast that can really complete a room.
'We'll be seeing a soft blend of white and beige tones alongside more contrasted colors throughout this year,' she comments. 'To prevent a one-dimensional look, designers are using a variety of bolder colors to ensure longevity in living room schemes.'
Naturally, whimsical (or circus-inspired) living room ideas aren't for everyone, but Johnny's space is proof that even bolder design choices can be balanced out to create an inviting feel. It looks like high-contrast design schemes are taking center stage this year.
