Carlex Design, a Polish firm that specializes in redesigning car interiors, has just released images of its newest creation – MiniSteam, a one-of-a-kind steampunk-themed Mini Countryman.
Not sure what steampunk is? Think of the submarine in Jules Verne’s novel Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. It’s a style in which steam-powered mechanics is highlighted in an object’s design.
Wikipedia explains:
Steampunk is a genre which…incorporates elements of science fiction, fantasy, alternate history, horror, and speculative fiction. It involves a setting where steam power is widely used…
Steampunk design emphasizes a balance between the form and function. Like the Arts and Crafts Movement, this blurs the line between tool and decoration. … The goal of such redesigns is to employ appropriate materials (such as polished brass, iron, wood, and leather) with design elements and craftsmanship consistent with the Victorian era, rejecting the aesthetic of industrial design. [more]
The MiniSteam falls perfectly in line with this genre – featuring bronze and copper hues, supple brown leather, mechanical inlays and loads of woodwork. It is truly magnificent.
What do you think? Let’s have a round table discussion on Carlex Designs‘ MiniSteam or the steampunk genre in general.
Mna someone really gave that mini a good whack with an ugly stick.
Less is more
In the steam-punk genre, more is more. This is actually a bit light on stuff – it could use some vacuum tubes and glowing bits to make the look more in line with other steam-punk stuff.
I love it. I think it’s absolutely gorgeous! The color combination is perfect and the theme is one of a kind, which is very rare these days.
its super original. and being a big fan of browns and coppers i really love the style. i agree with geoff that for “steampunk” this is a bit understated but from an auto upholstery standpoint this an awesome idea for an interior
This Mini Countryman has fanominal detail! The Upholstery team that did this interior design definitely takes pride in their craft!