The home design world is full of trends, with influencers, celebrities and reality shows all getting in on the act. It’s fun to follow the latest ideas and tempting to bring them into your home. But we’re hearing more and more clients ask about design options that will stand the test of time.
It’s understandable. Any remodeling or new-build project is an investment, so the more life you get out of your investment the better. That includes colors, finishes and fixtures that won’t look dated in just a few years.
The benefits of a timeless design for a home build or home renovation are numerous. It will make your home more appealing to buyers when the time comes. It will be more adaptable when you’re blending different elements or want to make changes in the future. And because a timeless design is long-lasting, you won’t spend as much on frequent updates or create extra waste when ditching outdated ideas.
The elements of timeless design
When it comes to choosing fixtures and finishes, rethinking a room’s layout, and making the many other decisions about your home renovation project, every detail plays a part in creating a timeless design.
Everyone will have different ideas, and much of it is a matter of personal taste. Your home’s architectural style is an important factor, too. But designers agree on some basic elements of a home environment that will have long-lasting appeal.
Simple colors. Neutrals and earth tones are the natural choice for long-lasting appeal, whether for walls or cabinets, countertops or flooring. In addition to being more soothing, they create a backdrop for other decorative touches or statement pieces.
Natural materials. Just as with neutral colors, natural materials lend themselves to many moods, tastes and touches. They’re typically more durable, too — which means they won’t show their age as quickly. This can include hardwood flooring, natural stone countertops and ceramic tile as well as decorative accents that incorporate natural fibers, clay and wood.
Simple lines and shapes. When discussing architectural details with your designer, remember that clean and simple are best if you’re going for enduring appeal. Avoid ornate or complex solutions. In addition to avoiding the trendy trap, the simpler options you choose now can be adapted to changing tastes in the future.
Classic patterns. Pattern can be introduced in many ways. Exercise more caution with more permanent features such as flooring, countertops and tile backsplashes. Classic options include stripes, herringbone, checks and simple florals. Save your more flamboyant instincts for wallpaper, upholstered seats, window treatments, pillows and rugs, which can be swapped out easily.
Era-appropriate. What works for an Arts and Crafts bungalow won’t necessarily work for a 1950s ranch. If you’re renovating or building an addition, choose architectural details, fixtures and finishes that honor your home’s era. Designers can help you choose features that blend well with your home’s era without catering to outdated trends or sacrificing functionality.
Quality materials. We’ve all experienced the disappointment of seeing something wear out or become passé too quickly. This is rarely true with quality materials chosen for durability and smart design. Things like top-grade cabinetry and hardwood flooring will age well and can be more easily refinished instead of discarded. Another benefit: You’ll be helping the earth because long-lasting choices means less waste.
Make it your own
Don’t make the mistake of thinking timeless is boring! Done right, a timeless design for any part of your home can also be uniquely you, with touches that can add personality and excitement. Some examples:
Splashes of color. Neutrals are a great jumping-off point; don’t overlook splashes of color to add variety, especially when it’s done with paint or wallpaper that can be easily changed.
Lighting fixtures. Because they are more easily replaced, lighting fixtures are a great way to add a unique or trend touch, as long as they harmonize with the rest of your space.
Decorative details. Decorative objects can add visual interest while expressing your taste and surrounding you with items meaningful to you. You might have a pottery collection, houseplants, or framed photos to display. Think about shelving, display niches or other ways to incorporate these items.
Old and new. Don’t hesitate to keep grandma’s Oriental rug or hang both abstract and traditional art. When done right, a mix of modern, vintage and antique can convey a timeless feel — as if many generations can feel comfortable there. You’ll also avoid watching everything go out of fashion all at once.
Trends in small doses. Falling in love with a trend you saw on Instagram? Not a problem — if you don’t go overboard. A timeless design can adapt to thoughtful touches that say “today” without taking over. A touch of new trends can keep your home feeling fresh and up-to-date.
Planning your timeless design
Our team at Platinum Renovations can advise you about timeless design choices that will make the most of your investment. We're dedicated to helping you transform your home to fit your dreams. Let’s get started! Email us info@platinumrenovationswi.com or call (262) 326-0207.
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