Everything Old Is ‘New Vintage’ Decor
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.
The Steampunk designation conjures up visions of brass fittings and accessories made of old-fashioned watch parts. However, designers think of the Steampunk wave as a combination of the romance of past eras with an eye toward the future in a way that’s visually pleasing, yet with a funky, punkish punch. Think of Jules Verne’s novels, especially “From the Earth to the Moon,” and “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea,” and you’ll get the idea.
For instance, a recent New York Times article titled “The New Antiquarians” described the decor of one home as a combination of “cultural touchstones,” mixing such articles as ” fencing masks and pitch helmets, stacks of antique luggage, apothecary cabinets and a taxidermy collection that would make Teddy Roosevelt proud.” While this may sound to some like nothing more than a big junk collection, there is a method to the decorating madness called Steampunk.
If you want to try Steampunk then you can begin experimenting with some of the smaller rooms in your home. This will help you get a better understanding of the design before you begin taking on the bigger rooms in your home.
As you’re imagining your Steampunk space, be prepared to comb secondhand stores, thrift shops, even flea markets and yard sales for the furniture and accessories that will authenticate your “new vintage” decor. Everything from those apothecary cabinets to well-used but still valuable area rugs can be found with some effort.
Speaking of area rugs, start by defining the space with a good quality rug. Victorians were immensely fond of things “oriental,” including “Oriental” rugs. These days an “Oriental” rug could more accurately classified as Persian, Turkish, or Chinese. Selecting the rug can be pivotal for the decor. Is the rug to be a focal point? Then you’ll be looking for rug with a strong central design, such as a medallion. Will the rug define or complement the color scheme? Is your Steampunk room likely to have lots of traffic? Then you’ll need something sturdy such as wool, rather than a more delicate Chinese silk area rug.
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.
Symmetry is another key element of Steampunk design, so plan on arranging furniture in symmetrical groupings. Hobbyists fond of Steampunk will find arranging the furniture great fun, because they can exercise their math. Furniture in Steampunk is heavy – think Edwardian gentlemen’s clubs, as in “Around the World in 80 Days,” another Jules Verne classic. If necessary, look for plain pieces in secondhand stores and paint them black to match one another.
Now it’s time for adding accessories. You want to create the right look for the “new vintage” look. Start by adding some bookshelves in your room to create a library effect. Add family photos in frames that are ornate. Brass fixtures should be everywhere, like old nautical instruments, an old clock, figurines that stand in a glass dome. A butterfly collection is nice too. Just let your imagination run free.
There you have the basics of a New Vintage decor. Ladies, pick up your opera glasses and parasols and gentlemen, get your top hats and pocket watches and you’re there.
If you found this information about decorating with rugs beneficial, then you are going to love these oriental area rugs.
Processing your request, Please wait....
