I believe that Steampunk is more than just brass and watchparts. It's finding a way to combine the past and the future in an aesthetic pleasing yet still punkish way. It's living a life that looks old-fashioned, yet speaks to the future. It's taking the detritus of our modern technological society and remaking it into useful things. Join me as I search for items for my house that combine the scientific romanticism of the Victorians with our real present and imagined future.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Super Traditional, yet still Steampunk
This is from House Beautiful, September 2007. It was one of the most traditional rooms I've ever seen -- check out the molding and wingback chair, not to mention the painting and prints -- but see how it's also steampunk? First, the always perfect checkboard floor -- this time done in a rug. Second, the English architect desk (adjustable, with a glass top). And, of course, the adjustable brass "implement" sitting atop it -- a clock on the right, a thermometer in the middle, and I'm guessing a barometer on the left.
Like the look? There are a number of architect desks available online. You'll have to hunt down the appropriate weather station, and probably age a black and white checkerboard rug, but I don't think any of it would be that difficult.
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ReplyDeleteVery elegant, but I'm not sure how functional it would actually be, at least at home. Personally, I don't have enough space to dedicate to something that isn't very function. And I think putting a bunch of cables and modern hardware (ie: a computer) would ruin the simplicity of it.
ReplyDeleteAnyway, very good find. Enjoyed the article.
-Jon
Great stuff.
ReplyDeleteI really love the "implement".
It has such, an intriguing geometry- something like a masonic 'Square & Compasses'.
Most useful for alchemistic purposes. Thanks for the great post!