Gryffindor is the favorite among Hogwarts houses, but recreating an authentic Gryffindor space is easier said than done. You can sprinkle images of Harry and the Gryffindor Crest a few times, but it won’t get the depth and the all-around look of Gryffindor.
Based on my own experience creating a Harry Potter themed space, here is my advice on which Gryffindor accessories will bring the theme to life in an authentic way. In addition to it, I created a larger list of Harry Potter themed decorative accessories, wrote about re-creating a Gryffindor Common Room as well as Harry Potter themed bedroom, and these articles have more ideas about everyday items you can use to nail the Hogwarts spirit.
Shopping note: Gryffindor common rooms and other spaces have a casual, lived-in look that can be recreated authentically with antique and vintage items. I sourced most of my accessories from estate sales and auctions and encourage you to check out antique and thrift stores in your area first.
1. Red Upholstery or Pillows
This one is obvious, but the trick is in doing it right. First, no matching sets. The Gryffindor common room as depicted in the movies was famous for its casual, thrifty look. None of the furniture there matched, and neither should yours.
Second, don’t go overboard with red. One or two pieces are enough, and if you don’t have the budget to get red upholstery (I got the beautiful chair above for $25 at an antique auction), you can decorate with pillows.
2. Lady and the Unicorn Tapestry
The walls of the Gryffindor common room were decorated with Lady and Unicorn Tapestries. The tapestries created a very iconic look for the room, and if you are into Gryffindor, you should pay homage to the design in some form. It does not have to be an expensive wall hanging, so framing it or making pillows from tapestry-themed fabric are good options.
3. Glass Jars
Glass jars were used extensively by designers throughout Hogwarts. They held visual props, specimens, and other educational materials. Professor Lupin filled the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom with visual objects in domed glass jars; here is a similar one for sale on Wayfair.
You can fill your jars with natural objects like shells, stones, and moss or leave them empty. They can be filled with lights for the holidays or spooky bones for Halloween. I have a jar like this filled with shells on the desk shelf.
4. Brass Desktop Accessories
Brass desktop accessories like animal figurines and balance scales can add depth and authenticity to a Harry Potter themed room. Brass accessories famously decorated the Headmaster’s Office at Hogwarts and the golden color of brass matches the color scheme of the Gryffindor house. Here is a dragon statue similar to one used in Dumbledor’s office.
Animal figurines, such as lions or owls, can also be used to further harness the spirit of Gryffindor and evoke the characters, creatures, and events featured in the Harry Potter series. Balance scales were used in the potion class and were displayed throughout Hogwarts’ common rooms. All of these elements come together to create a magical room that is perfect for any Harry Potter fan.
5. Old Books
Old books help to create an atmosphere of age and experience that is reflective of the Harry Potter world. By using old books, it creates a level of realism and authenticity to the room design that really transports people into the magical world of an old school like Hogwarts.
Old books also evoke a sense of nostalgia for the beloved stories that make up the series. They were used extensively to decorate both Gryffindor and Slytherin common rooms. From a design perspective, old books create visual interest and help to fill up extra space in the room.
6. Paintings in Gold Frames
Old master paintings in gold frames remind us of the halls of Hogwarts and add a sense of elegance and sophistication to a Gryffindor-themed room. Paintings of magicians and sorcerers from a bygone era can evoke a mystical atmosphere and add to the overall aesthetic of Gryffindor. These pieces will also provide an interesting conversation piece for guests and make for a great focal point in a room that is steeped in the culture and history of the fictional world of the Harry Potter universe.
7. Trunks
Trunks are a common staple in the Harry Potter universe, typically representing the students’ luggage when they attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. One needs to use trunks to decorate a Harry Potter themed room to add to the magical atmosphere and to evoke the same sense of wonder and excitement that Harry and his classmates experienced at Hogwarts.
When it comes to the Gryffindor house specifically, trunks play an even more important role. Trunks are the perfect way to show off the Gryffindor house colors and symbols, with the bold red and gold stripes. This helps to emphasize the house’s identity and can add to any Gryffindor-themed room.
8. Brass Lamps
Brass oil lamps with glass or metal shades are the perfect way to recreate the iconic look of the Gryffindor common room in Harry Potter. These styles of lamps are a vital part of the common room, helping to create a vintage look and casual environment. Not only do they provide an eerie glow that adds to the air, but they also have a timeless, classic look that can help set the tone for a Harry Potter themed room. These lamps provide a traditional and school-like look that adds to the Gryffindor aesthetic.
9. Animal Depictions and Figurines
Using animal figurines to decorate a Harry Potter themed room is an excellent way to bring the magical world of Harry Potter to life and pay homage to the beloved series. The use of animal figurines is especially relevant for a Gryffindor-themed room, as the Gryffindor house is represented by the lion. By displaying lion figurines, fans of Harry Potter can show their appreciation for the house and help to create a more authentic Harry Potter-style atmosphere in their room.
Additionally, the Gryffindor house has its own set of values that can be expressed through the use of lion figurines, such as bravery, courage, and loyalty. Therefore, animal figurines are an important way to contribute to the overall Harry Potter-theme of the room, while also paying homage to the brave house of Gryffindor.
Want more Harry Potter themed accessory ideas and photos?