Steampunk Reinterpreted

Back in January, I wrote about my new interest in Steampunk design, and I’ve been working to add a little of its style to my living room.  I bought new curtains, and yesterday, I told you about my smelly adventure with the crinkly fans from BHLDN.  Those were part of a larger plan to jazz up my mantel with my interpretation of Steampunk.

Here’s the final result.

(My Steampunk Mantel.)

Like I said, it’s Steampunk reinterpreted, so until my mom finally agrees to give me my grandfather’s vintage typewriter, this is a very loose interpretation.  The crinkly fans are reminiscent of wheels or gears, at least to me, and I added a few other details, too, including an armillary sphere, a hot air balloon, a couple of snails (because I adore real snails even though they are gross!), my favorite fairy vase, and a green garland for spring.

(A closeup of my Steampunk mantel.)

I love the delicate fans and ivory details combined with the darker metal pieces, and the finished look isn’t overpowering at all.  Plus, it’s light enough for spring, especially with the greenery and tiny creatures from West Elm.

(My hot air balloon.)

I found this balloon sculpture on Amazon, and it’s actually a decorative holder for wine bottle corks, something I would normally never buy.  But I thought a hot air balloon would work nicely with my new vignette, and this container was perfect.  Who knew?

(My armillary sphere.)

I also added the armillary sphere I purchased from One King’s Lane, which was the initial inspiration for my foray into Steampunk.

(Felted Foliage Garland from BHLDN.)

And finally, I hung the Felted Foliage Garland, which also came from BHLDN.  This is actually a set of many small garlands that can be strung together or used separately, and I love it.  Since James was old enough to color, we’ve been making garlands for our mantel, and I’m always on the hunt for new ideas.  This garland is so lovely, and could be used at Christmas, too.

I’m pretty pleased with my new Steampunk-style mantel, and it was most definitely an adventure procuring all the details.  Now, I just have to invent some type of contraption to go along with everything!