The steampunk style is not widely known or recognized in the world of interior design. Many people are unfamiliar with the concept and its basic principles.
When the term “steampunk” is mentioned, it typically evokes images of the Victorian era, with its remarkable inventions and advancements. However, steampunk goes beyond just Victorian aesthetics.
To truly embrace the steampunk style, you need to incorporate industrial elements into the mix. This fusion of Victorian elegance and machinery is what sets steampunk apart.
While steampunk may not be the most popular design style, it does have a significant influence on certain aspects of interior design, particularly in Gothic-Victorian fashion and decor. It brings together the romantic and ornate qualities of the Victorian era with the ruggedness and utilitarian aspects of industrial machinery.
So, if you’re looking to infuse your space with a unique and unconventional style, consider exploring the fascinating world of steampunk design. It offers a captivating blend of elegance, history, and industrial aesthetics that can transform your home into a truly remarkable space.
How to Steampunk Your Home
If you’re searching for a unique and distinctive interior design style to transform your home, look no further than steampunk.
Steampunk interior design has inspired countless individuals to create spaces that perfectly capture the essence of this captivating style. By incorporating key elements of steampunk, you can achieve a truly remarkable and one-of-a-kind look in your home.
Here are some noteworthy qualities of steampunk interior design that you can embrace and leverage to create a space that resonates with this distinctive style.
1. Embellish Your Walls with Gear Wall Clocks
2. Include a Industrial Light Fixture
3. Use Revamped Furniture
4. Soft Neutral Color for Steampunk Home Decor
5. Display Old Globes
6. Add A Commercial Touch with Exposed Bricks
7. Expose Natural Leather Furniture
8. Decorate with Sepia Images
9. Use Victorian Pattern Wallpaper
Take inspiration from the imaginative creatures found in the books of Jules Verne or the intricate mechanical contraptions reminiscent of H.G. Wells’ Time Machine. Let your creativity run wild as you envision and bring to life captivating scenes and designs on your walls.
By painting your wallpapers, you infuse your steampunk-inspired space with a truly unique and personalized touch. This artistic endeavor allows you to showcase your individuality and create a visually stunning environment that reflects your passion for steampunk aesthetics. So, grab your paintbrushes, unleash your inner artist, and transform your walls into captivating works of art.
10. Show Old Books
To make a statement with these literary treasures, consider tastefully arranging old notebooks with leather covers. Their weathered appearance and worn pages add an authentic touch to the overall ambiance. Place them strategically on shelves, tables, or desks, creating an inviting atmosphere that sparks curiosity and invites exploration.
The presence of these old books not only adds to the visual appeal of your steampunk décor but also serves as a reminder of the rich history and literary influences that shape the steampunk genre. So, gather your collection of vintage books, arrange them with care, and let their presence transport you to a bygone era of imagination and adventure.
11. Frame Some Herbariums
To truly capture the essence of your steampunk style, consider incorporating framed herbariums in this space. These botanical displays not only add a touch of natural beauty but also serve as unique focal points that set the tone for the rest of your steampunk-inspired home.
By adorning the walls with carefully curated herbariums, you create a captivating visual experience that welcomes guests into your steampunk world. Each framed arrangement, showcasing preserved plant specimens, becomes an intriguing conversation starter, evoking a sense of scientific exploration and the Victorian era’s fascination with botany.
As you step through the doorway, the framed herbariums act as a bridge between the outside world and the captivating steampunk realm inside. They provide an enchanting glimpse into your distinctive style and set the stage for the adventures that await within your steampunk-inspired sanctuary.
12. Hang Victorian-styled Hats
To infuse your steampunk-inspired room with a touch of class, incorporate these fashionable accessories into your decor. Rather than confining them to your wardrobe, display them as unique decorative elements.
Hang bowler hats and top hats strategically around the room, using hooks or stands to showcase their distinguished presence. The juxtaposition of these classic headwear pieces against the steampunk backdrop adds a captivating blend of old-world charm and industrial flair.
These tastefully arranged hats become more than mere fashion statements; they become symbolic artifacts that pay homage to the bygone era. They evoke a sense of refinement and sophistication, reflecting the elegance and dapper sensibilities of the Victorian age.
By integrating bowler hats and top hats into your steampunk decor, you infuse your space with a touch of nostalgia and allure. These timeless accessories serve as reminders of the grace and style that characterized the Victorian era, while seamlessly merging with the unique aesthetic of the steampunk genre.
13. Create a Metal Pipe Shelf
When it comes to showcasing your books in an industrial-inspired setting, think outside the box and embrace the raw and rugged charm of steel pipelines.
Incorporating steel pipelines into your book display not only adds an industrial touch but also offers a practical and visually striking solution. These versatile components, commonly used in industrial design, lend themselves well to creating unique bookshelves that exude a sense of urban sophistication.
With a little creativity and some basic DIY skills, you can easily manage and manipulate steel pipelines to construct a one-of-a-kind book display. Utilize the inherent strength and durability of these pipes to create sturdy bookshelf frames that can withstand the weight of your beloved collection.
Arrange the pipes in a strategic manner, considering both functionality and aesthetics. You can opt for a linear design with horizontal shelves or experiment with asymmetric arrangements for a more eclectic look. The beauty of steel pipelines lies in their ability to adapt to various configurations, allowing you to tailor the bookshelf to suit your space and personal style.
Once your steel pipeline bookshelf is assembled, it becomes an industrial centerpiece that commands attention. The juxtaposition of rugged metal against the softness of books creates a visually captivating display. This blend of contrasting elements evokes a sense of urban sophistication and edgy elegance.
So, if you’re seeking an unconventional yet captivating way to showcase your books, look no further than steel pipelines. Embrace the industrial aesthetic and transform your book display into a statement piece that seamlessly integrates with your overall industrial design theme.
14. Make a Unique Table from Old Trunk
If you find yourself in need of a table that perfectly complements your interior design but can’t seem to find the right one, don’t despair. Instead, think outside the box and consider repurposing unconventional items such as a steamer trunk or a vintage suitcase.
These nostalgic pieces not only add a unique and charming element to your space but also serve as functional alternatives to traditional tables. With their sturdy construction and distinct character, steamer trunks and suitcases can be transformed into stylish and practical surfaces that suit your design aesthetic.
To convert a steamer trunk or suitcase into a table, start by ensuring its stability and durability. Clean and restore the piece if necessary, enhancing its vintage appeal while preserving its original charm. Next, consider adding legs or a sturdy base to elevate the trunk or suitcase to a suitable table height. This can be achieved through various means, such as attaching metal or wooden legs, repurposing existing furniture legs, or even utilizing industrial-style piping for a unique look.
Once your improvised table is complete, it becomes a standout feature in your interior design, adding a touch of nostalgia and personality to the space. The weathered texture of the trunk or suitcase, along with its antique hardware and decorative details, becomes an intriguing conversation starter, captivating the attention of guests.
Whether placed in a living room, study, or bedroom, your steamer trunk or suitcase table exudes an air of adventure and exploration. Its versatility allows it to serve as a coffee table, side table, or even a bedside table, adapting to your needs and adding a touch of whimsy to your everyday life.
So, the next time you’re faced with the challenge of finding the perfect table for your interior design, consider embracing the world of improvisation and repurpose a steamer trunk or vintage suitcase. Let your creativity shine as you transform these unconventional items into functional and captivating pieces that truly reflect your unique style and personality.
15. Utilize an Old Victorian Sewing Table
If you haven’t had the fortune of acquiring such a remarkable piece for your own home, fear not. Antique stores hold a treasure trove of possibilities, offering a chance to unearth a beautiful Victorian sewing table that will breathe new life into your space.
These exquisite tables, often adorned with intricate carvings and delicate details, serve as a testament to the craftsmanship of a bygone era. Their rich history and unique charm make them a focal point in any room, eliciting a sense of nostalgia and curiosity.
Imagine your guests’ fascination as they trace their fingers along the polished wood, imagining the stories woven into every stitch created upon its surface. A Victorian sewing table becomes more than just furniture; it becomes a piece of living history, inviting conversations and inspiring creativity.
Should you embark on a journey to find the perfect Victorian sewing table, antique stores hold the key to unlocking the hidden gems of the past. With patience and a discerning eye, you may stumble upon a table that carries whispers of its previous owners, sparking your own imagination and igniting a new sense of appreciation for the artistry of yesteryears.
Once you have secured your Victorian sewing table, place it in a prominent position within your home, allowing its beauty and significance to shine. Enhance its allure with carefully chosen accessories and decor that complement its era and style, further immersing your guests in a bygone world of elegance and refinement.
As your visitors gaze upon the Victorian sewing table, they will be transported to a time of delicate stitches and meticulous craftsmanship. Its presence becomes an invitation to explore the intricacies of the past and to embrace the stories that have been intricately woven into its fabric.
So, venture into antique stores with an open heart and a keen eye, for there lies the potential to discover a Victorian sewing table that will become a cherished centerpiece in your home. Unveil its history and let it inspire both you and your visitors, evoking a sense of wonder and appreciation for the artistry of the past.
16. Use Old Maps as Wall Murals
Consider adorning your walls with these intricately detailed maps, allowing their allure to captivate both you and your guests. Embrace the charm of bygone eras by opting for older-looking maps that exude a sense of history and adventure. The weathered appearance and antiquated aesthetics of these maps lend an air of authenticity, enhancing the overall ambiance of your space.
You have a multitude of options when incorporating old maps into your design. For a grand and immersive experience, create an impressive mural that spans an entire wall, transforming it into a captivating panorama of geographical wonders. Let your imagination run wild as you piece together fragments of the world’s past and breathe new life into forgotten cartographic artistry.
Alternatively, if you prefer a more subtle approach, select individual maps and have them elegantly framed, transforming them into captivating focal points that add depth and character to your walls. The careful placement and arrangement of these framed maps will evoke a sense of nostalgia, while simultaneously celebrating the timeless beauty of cartography.
As you embark on this design journey, explore antique stores, online marketplaces, or even your own personal collections to uncover these treasured maps. Seek out maps that possess a sense of history and authenticity, embracing the patina of time and the stories they carry within their delicate folds.
Whether you choose to create expansive murals or showcase framed maps, the inclusion of old maps in your design will undoubtedly transport you and your guests to a realm where imagination knows no bounds. Let the journeys depicted on these aged maps inspire your own adventures and fuel your wanderlust. Allow the artistry of cartography to ignite conversations and unlock the beauty of the world’s diverse landscapes.
So, let the walls of your abode become portals to the past, adorned with vintage maps that breathe life into your space. Embrace the allure of aged cartography and embark on a visual expedition through time and space.
17. Attempt Textural Contrast
Unleash your creativity and delve into the world of steampunk interior design by skillfully blending the contrasting elements of toughness and delicacy. This unique style thrives on the captivating interplay between robust materials like leather and the gentle allure of lace.
At the heart of steampunk lies the intriguing fusion of traditionally masculine and feminine attributes. It is precisely this juxtaposition that adds to its charm and allure, creating a captivating aesthetic that is both bold and intricate.
To infuse your space with the essence of steampunk, consider incorporating leather and lace as key design elements. The rugged and tactile nature of leather evokes a sense of strength and resilience, serving as a foundation for the overall aesthetic. Whether it be a leather armchair, a vintage leather-bound book, or even leather upholstery on furniture, these elements add a masculine touch, grounding the space in its steampunk identity.
Complementing the sturdiness of leather, lace brings a touch of elegance and softness, introducing a delicate and intricate element to the design. Lace curtains, decorative lace trimmings, or lace table runners can infuse your space with a hint of femininity, creating a captivating contrast against the ruggedness of leather. This combination evokes a sense of balance and harmony, capturing the essence of steampunk’s eclectic charm.
The beauty of steampunk lies in its ability to seamlessly blend and harmonize seemingly opposing elements. It celebrates the duality of strength and grace, roughness and delicacy, creating a captivating visual narrative that sparks curiosity and intrigue.
As you embark on your steampunk design journey, explore the vast array of leather and lace options available to you. Seek out vintage leather pieces, aged with character and history, that exude a sense of timelessness. Combine them with lace accents carefully chosen to complement and enhance the overall aesthetic.
By skillfully integrating these contrasting elements, you can create a steampunk interior that is truly unique and captivating. Let the fusion of leather and lace tell a story of strength and vulnerability, tradition and innovation, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of steampunk design.
18. Add Some Details
These illustrations, with their intricate and detailed depictions, are perfectly aligned with the aesthetic we’re exploring. If you have any artwork like this in your possession, whether it be sketches, technical drawings, or blueprints, they can make excellent additions to your design.
Not only do these illustrations add visual interest and a sense of authenticity, but they also reflect the essence of the trend we’re discussing. They can serve as focal points, conversation starters, or simply as decorative elements that enhance the overall ambiance of your space.
If you’re an engineer or possess technical skills, you have the unique opportunity to create your own illustrations that are specifically tailored to your steampunk-inspired design. These custom illustrations can further emphasize the mechanical and industrial aspects of the trend, showcasing your expertise and adding a personal touch to your space.
Whether you have existing illustrations or possess the skills to create your own, don’t hesitate to incorporate them into your design. They can serve as powerful visual elements that not only enhance the aesthetics but also deepen the connection to the steampunk trend. Let these illustrations transport you to a world of innovation, mechanical wonders, and artistic expression as you bring your unique vision to life.
19. Reveal Some Victorian Dresses
Consider incorporating helmets or walking canes into your steampunk-inspired decor. These items not only add an intriguing visual element but also evoke a sense of adventure and sophistication. Antique shops can be a treasure trove for finding these unique pieces that can become conversation starters and focal points in your space.
Helmets, with their association to exploration and protection, can bring a dash of daring and a hint of mystery to your steampunk design. Walking canes, on the other hand, exude elegance and a touch of old-world charm, adding a sophisticated flair to your overall aesthetic.
Both helmets and walking canes can be easily found in antique shops, where you can discover a wide array of styles, materials, and historical significance. These authentic pieces have their own stories to tell and can serve as captivating artifacts in your steampunk-inspired setting.
Embrace the unexpected and consider incorporating these distinctive items into your decor. Let them add a touch of uniqueness, intrigue, and a sense of history to your space. With helmets or walking canes as part of your design, you’ll create an atmosphere that sparks curiosity and invites exploration into the realms of the past, the future, and the fantastical world of steampunk.
20. Reveal Antique & Vintage Items
While some of these antique inventions may no longer be functional in the way they were originally intended, that doesn’t mean they have lost their charm and value. In fact, they can be repurposed as captivating decorative pieces in your home.
Imagine the intrigue and conversation these vintage gadgets could inspire as they become focal points in your space. They serve as reminders of a bygone era, evoking a sense of nostalgia and curiosity. These artifacts of ingenuity carry the stories and spirit of their time, adding a unique touch to your decor.
Whether it’s an intricately designed typewriter, a mesmerizing pocket watch, or a peculiar scientific instrument, each antique invention has its own distinctive character. Embrace their imperfect functionality and embrace them as decorative treasures, showcasing their craftsmanship and historical significance.
By incorporating these antique inventions into your decor, you not only pay homage to the innovative spirit of the Victorians but also infuse your space with a sense of wonder and fascination. So, next time you visit an antique shop, keep an eye out for these extraordinary relics and let them tell their extraordinary tales in your home.
21. Never Forget Tiny Wood Jewelry Boxes
Let your imagination soar as you handpick the perfect assortment of these metal accents, envisioning the delightful transformation that lies ahead. With a bit of glue and a dash of ingenuity, you can turn a simple wooden box into a mesmerizing work of art.
Each metal piece brings its own distinctive charm and character, reflecting the industrial aesthetic that has captured the imagination of many. The juxtaposition of rugged wood and gleaming metal creates a visually captivating contrast, a testament to the power of combining different elements.
Whether you choose to adorn the corners of the box with decorative hardware, create an intricate pattern of screws, or embellish it with an array of gears, the result will undoubtedly be a stunning masterpiece that exudes a sense of craftsmanship and individuality.
As you proudly display your handcrafted creation, you’ll be reminded of the delightful journey you embarked upon, and the satisfaction of transforming a humble wooden box into a captivating work of art. So, venture forth to the hardware store and embrace the potential of these small metal wonders, for the possibilities they offer are truly limitless.