Growing in popularity, steampunk is close to mainstream now; with clothing, furniture, decorating items and films all designed to suit the Victorian, yet modern sensibility. Despite its climb to conventional, steampunk still relies on an individual outlook, a taste for modifying and adapting secondhand objects, and a sense of humor and whimsy. A steampunk-themed bedroom—whether it’s the primary bedroom, a child’s room, or a teen’s hideout—is a great choice for anyone who loves the Victorian style, marches to the beat of their own drummer, or just loves the anachronistic/futuristic/industrial look. So whether you want to go full-steam ahead into this industrially-vibed style, or just add a little touch of steam to your more traditional furnishings, check out the bedrooms featured here for great decorating ideas. Read more about our Diversity and Inclusion Pledge to make The Spruce a site where all feel welcome.
GraysBrownsCreamBurgundy or deep redDeep purpleBlackNavy blue or grayish-blue
Create an interesting contrast with the use of textures. Shiny, smooth satin, luxurious velvet, and intricate lace all have Victorian flair and add spice to the low-key color scheme. Touches of metal, particularly brass, copper, brushed nickel, pewter, or tin are also a great way to liven up the room while keeping true to the steampunk vibe.
A brass bed frame, sleigh bed, or tall four-poster. Buy your mattress new, however; you don’t want the health risks of a used mattress.A rolltop desk tucked in the corner of your bedroom is the perfect place to write bills, use your laptop, store files, or just sit and read your favorite steampunk novel.An antique chair to complement your desk. An ornate wooden chair with ball feet and wheels is both convenient and steampunk. A leather armchair with an old-school, gentlemen’s club-style is quite a steampunk and also a perfect spot to sit and read before bed.Your steampunk bedroom needs at least one old trunk for the perfect Victorian touch. Use a trunk at the foot of your bed as the footboard, and also for storage.A wooden armoire is perfect for storing your clothes, electronic equipment, or anything else that needs a home. Look for dark wood for the most Victorian flavor.You are going to need shelves to hold your books and various steampunk décor, so choose an ornate, dark-wood bookcase with a touch of ornate trim.
Your bed is probably the largest piece of furniture in your bedroom, so it tends to be the focal point. Pick out bedding that plays up the steampunk theme by choosing rich, deep reds, browns, or grays in a thick velvet or satin comforter.
Shop antique stores, or buy replicas online of old maps to hang on the walls. Old globes are also appropriate.Fill your bookshelves with old, hardback books, and nautical or antique instruments used for sailing, predicting weather, or surveying.Set an antique-looking clock on your nightstand. Go for a replica here; you don’t want to miss work because your alarm clock didn’t go off!Though you probably prefer electric lights, keep the Victorian, industrial age look alive with fixtures that look like lanterns or candles.Wall art made from gears and mechanical pieces is very steampunk, and you can create the look yourself with parts from a scrapyard.A retro or antique table fan will keep you cool in the summer, plus add a great steampunk look to your bedroom.Dirigibles are a popular steampunk theme. Find a model or poster of a Victorian-looking airship, and hang it on the wall or from the ceiling.Stick with dark wood and metal for your accents. Ornate, curved designs are more Victorian than straight lines or plain styling.
Infernal Devices by K.W. JeterThe Prophecy Machine by Neal BarrettMainspring by Jay LakeFrankenstein by Mary ShelleyThe Anubis Gates by Tim Powers20,000 Leagues Under the Sea by Jules VerneSteampunk edited by Jeff VanderMeerThe Difference Engine by Bruce Sterling and William GibsonThe Time Machine by H.G. Wells
Enjoy reading while curled up in your reading nook amid the futuristic and anachronistic blend that is steampunk.
