GET THE LOOK: THE STEAMPUNK LITE LIVING ROOM

The next time you’re at a dinner party and there’s a sudden lag in the conversation, stoke the fire by asking everyone to define ‘steampunk.’ Chances are, there will be a delightful variation in definitions, underlining the fact that it’s a hard style to define with any authority. Is it Victorian? Is it Sci-Fi? Or is it rather turn-of-the-century industrial?

Whatever your definition, it’s a concept that’s much easier to identify than to define. This week, we’ve identified some stylish pieces that give a firm nod to the steampunk look, yet are modern and practical enough for everyday.

 

With its Victorian-era look and feel, the Luxe Fainting Couch from Urban Outfitters is a good place to start. Its rich dandelion color is also complementary of darker coordinating pieces. $649 Urban Outfitters.

 

The timelessness of Persian rugs means that they also speak ‘steampunk.’ $79.99 from IKEA.

 

The oversized Oliver Leather Ottoman from Pottery Barn is by no means cheap ($899), but look at it—it’s a tank and you’d have forever. Plunk a tray on top and it also doubles as a great coffee table.

This repurposed pendant from Rejuvenation is a throwback indeed—check out its wire-guard shade, cloth-covered cord and stained oak base. $156 each.

 

If one indisputable thing can be said about steampunk, it’s that gears and sprockets are its lifeblood. Pair open-gear clocks like these from Amazon as wall décor. $25 and $39.99, respectively.

 

It’s a (faux) painted map of the Old World!  $124.99 from Overstock.

 

These dark green velvet pillows are lush, yet stern—just like that steampunk barista at Starbucks you’ve been pining for. 2 for $25.49 from Overstock.

 

I do declare—this piranha does appear to be of the man-eating variety. Perch it on a shelf as both a study in nature and as a reminder to be careful where you swim. $39 from Evolution.

 

GET THE LOOK: AFRICAN MODERN

I first discovered the artist Mickalene Thomas at the Dress Codes triennial show at the ICP in NY. The artist creates Blaxploitation-style photos and paintings of lush 70s environments augmented by badass African American women.

 

The mix of textures, vibrant colors, vintage and animal prints really works, so we put together an African Modern version of the look. If you’re feeling wild, use it as a base to add more of your faves into the mix.

 

The new rattan chair from Ikea has a high back, giving it a stylized update from the usual rattan stuff.

 

Faux animal fur pillows come in different prints, buy as many as you need at $18.99 a pop.

 

The Khandahar Jewel loveseat is a handsome, cozy little lounger covered in the perfect print.

I like the Safari Rug from West Elm, the subdued zebra print ties all of the patterns together without the harsh look of the usual black and white version.

 

A funky tapestry like this one from Urban Outfitters could be used as a throw or wall hanging.

 

Loving this silk pillow cover in a watercolor print, on sale!

 

 

 

DESIGN AROUND: A BRIGHT DESK

Building a look around a quality statement piece is a good way to anchor a room. When augmented with lower-cost pieces, it’s also a good way to achieve a look that’s greater than the sum of its parts (i.e. looks more expensive than it is).

This thoroughly modern desk from Blu Dot is functionally funky: the bold red color packs a punch while the ample workspace and sleek lines make it practical enough for a workspace or home office. The desk itself costs $699, but add these more frugal sidekicks and you’ll achieve an overall look that won’t have you working overtime.

Set the stage with Blu Dot’s bright red desk from the Conran Shop. $699.

 

This shelving unit is highly complimentary—both in color and style—but doesn’t scream “set!” $229 from CB2.

 

Because the line between “awesomely red” and “looks like the inside of a tomato” is a thin one, add a grounding neutral, like this jute rug. $149 Tarby rug from IKEA.

 

Anyone who actually remembers high school science lab or shop will surely remember such stools, which actually look better with time and abuse. This backed model also has an adjustable leg height. $69.99 from Northern Stool.

 

The Task Floor Lamp bends and arches to provide light where you need it. $169 from west elm.

 

Muji’s classic Aluminum Wall Clock is perfect for a work space, but would work in just about any room of the house. $48.75.

 

At long last—you can keep your important papers color-coded with these Pantone storage tins. $22.00 from Seltzer Studios.

GET THE LOOK: THE MUJI LIVING ROOM

The compact and versatile pieces in Muji’s furniture line are ideal for tight or new spaces, such as a studio, dorm room or starter apartment. The line’s simplicity makes for easy mixing-and-matching–even with pieces sporting varied materials and finishes. This neutral-toned living room can be yours for just $717.20, making it a great foundation from which to add a bit of personalization and flair.

 

This space-saving brown sofa also folds up for easy transport. $327.50

 

Stack and store books, pictures and miscellany in this simple pulp board box. $44.95.

 

This accommodating side table is ready to saddle up wherever you need it. $88.

 

Coat stands can organize more than just outerwear: hang bags, charging cords or throws on this beech stand. $94.75.

 

This walnut wall clock is dead simple and dead awesome. $97.50

 

White oval cushions provide extra cushiness and break up the boldness of the couch. $32.25 each.

GET THE LOOK: THE GROWN-UP DORM ROOM

Summer is almost over, which means school is around the corner for some. Feeling clueless? Avoid the “Back-2-School” signs at Bed Bath and Beyond and start thinking outside the box. You’re guaranteed to win the respect of your college floor mates with your grown-up style.

 

 

This slim n’ handy tray table from MUJI is useful for so many dorm-like activities.

 

The Bygone Blackboard is made of reclaimed oak from an old steel mill and repurposed leather from WWII soldiers’ spats. Fancy.

Rooming in close quarters calls for clever storage. Ditch those dull plastic bins for vintage suitcases, like this one found on Etsy.

 

Store toiletries and school supplies in this sweet 70s Samsonite train case, from dirtiebirdiesvintage on Etsy.

 

Simple, cheap, and designed to fit pesky twin xl mattresses, these Target sheets get the job done (and come in a nice variety of colors).

 

Instead of hideous bed-in-a-bag sets, layer with cozy throws in interesting patterns. This jumbo Ikat throw from Urban Outfitters is a sure fit.

 

A book light is essential for late night cramming sessions. I’m partial to this modern LED model from MoMA.