Some call it “Steampunk,” a 21st century version of the “scientific romanticism” of the Victorian era. Others think of it as “New Vintage,” a way for lovers of antiques to show off their prized collections. Whatever its name, this latest home decor trend is getting plenty of buzz and use.
This look uses different versions and brings them together. For example brass fittings are used with accessories from an old fashioned watch parts. Designers think that this look is actually a fondness of the past decor with a way of looking ahead into the future. It can be pleasing to look at but still adds a funky punch to it. For example think about “From the Earth to the Moon” by Jules verne and “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea”.
In a recent article from New York Times, it featured a story called “The New Antiquarians”. In the article it described how the look brought two different eras of decor together. For example, “fencing masks and pitch helmets, stacks of antique luggage, apothecary cabinets and a taxidermy collection that would make Teddy Roosevelt proud.” It may sound like junk to some people but if you use it right then it can create a new look.
If you want to try Steampunk design then you may want to try decorating a small room first. This will give you an idea of whether this look is right for you. The two talents needed to create the look of Steampunk is proportion and scale.
While trying to picture your Steampunk room you want to go out and visit second hand shops in your area to find some great ideas. Yard sales and flea markets are also a good place to start. This will help you get the “new vintage” look in your home.
Area rugs are also important because they can define the space that you are looking to decorate. The Victorians were fond of Oriental decor and that includes Oriental rugs. Today you can find Oriental rugs are also called Persian, Turkish, or even Chinese. Choosing the right area rug is very important. Is your area rug going to be the focal point in your decor? You need to decide that before you begin. Another thing to consider is if your rug is going to be in a room with a lot of traffic then you want it be made from material that can handle it like wool.
You want to find a rug with vivid colors. The Victorian style calls for deep jewel tones and rich fabrics like velvet. You can add these colors in your curtains, table cloths, and linens as well as upholstery. You can find some antique linen’s that are embroidered or even a pillow with needlepoint will complete the look. Don’t forget the brass lamps.
It’s important to include symmetry in the Steampunk design. Arrange your furniture to be symmetrically grouped together. Some find that arranging furniture for this design is fun because you must use math. Think about Edwardian Gentlemen’s Club in “Around the world in 80 Days”. This was another classic from Jules Verne. You can also look in all the second hand shops for a plain piece and paint it yourself.
It’s time to accessorize your room with a bookshelf on the wall to give you display space. You need family photos, brass fixtures, nautical instruments, an old fashioned clock, or figurines displayed in an glass dome. Search the internet to find the right look for you.
This is the basics of the new vintage decor. So ladies, grab your opera glasses and the parasols and for the men, you can grab your top hats and pocket watches and you are already there.
Decorating with rugs has never been this easy with these rugs. Be sure to take a look at these oriental area rugs for the latest information.
Tags: Family, home decor, Home Decorating, interior design, vintage home decorating
