Instead of following home decor trends, creating a timeless and classic space can serve as a solid foundation for temporary trends. However, determining what is considered timeless can be challenging in a world where TikTok-inspired aesthetics are constantly changing. To help with this, experts suggest working with the structure and location of your home to find what style it needs to be. It’s crucial to consider the design language and accent of the regional place where your home is located. In terms of colors and patterns, prioritizing neutrals and natural textures can save you the trouble of repainting or redecorating when trends change. Neutrals such as tan, gray, and warm ecrus will never go out of style and layering additional warmth and texture as needed with rugs, wovens, and accent pillows can add a touch of personality.
Jane Beiles suggests taking inspiration from nature when deciding on materials and textures for your home decor. According to Lang, natural textures such as jute, boucle, and linen can add visual interest while maintaining a neutral color palette. Co-Founder of Olive Ateliers, Laura Sotelo, agrees that nature-inspired decor made from wood, stone, and linen will never go out of style. Both suggests incorporating florals and geometric shapes to bring the outdoors in and add visual interest to your space. Remember, nature is always on-trend and can provide endless inspiration for your home decor.
Tempaper suggests taking inspiration from timeless design movements such as classic Italian, French, and American styles when defining your home’s aesthetic. According to Kirsten Fiore of Kristen Elizabeth Design, working with a classic Shaker-style cabinet face in your kitchen can create a fresh look while nodding to the birthplace of modern style. While neutrals will always be timeless, it’s important to use color intentionally in your space to achieve either a classic or trendy appearance. Fiore recommends repeating one color in three different areas of a room to create a sense of fluidity and movement.
Kristen Foire suggests that investing in high-quality furniture can help keep your home decor timeless, without necessarily breaking the bank. While it may not be practical to purchase expensive furniture for every item in the home, you can still make sensible investments by prioritizing the central and frequently-used pieces such as bed frames, sofas, coffee tables, dining tables and chairs, and accent chairs. According to Lang, opting for lower-cost options made from cheaper materials may end up looking worn out and tattered quickly. Jennifer Walter concurs with the idea of investing in upholstery and case goods to ensure longevity, while accessories and paint can be easily swapped out. In summary, making thoughtful and strategic investments in high-quality furniture can help you achieve a timeless decor that endures the test of time.
The importance of scale and proportion in furniture placement cannot be overstated when aiming for a well-balanced room design. To achieve a timeless look, it is essential to consider the layout of the room, furniture placement, and traffic flow. Oversized furniture pieces can overwhelm a space while small ones can make the room look sparse or lopsided. Symmetry, scale, and proportions contribute significantly to a visually pleasing and inviting space. When trying to achieve a classic aesthetic, it is advisable to focus on one or two statement pieces and complement them with quieter supporting pieces. Adding built-in shelving, bookcases, or entertainment centers is an excellent way to give a room depth and texture. They also provide extra storage and display options while displaying seasonal or trendy decor accents. Incorporating character elements in a room’s design ensures that it transcends any era.
To achieve a timeless look in your home decor, it’s recommended to mix old and new elements. Incorporating vintage touches such as artwork, molding, or antiques can add balance and history to your living space. However, it’s important to keep things in balance. Owning decor that spans decades can also help prevent your home from feeling limited to one era. When following current trends, it’s best to do so sparingly and tastefully, using smaller decor accents like pillows, linens, artwork, and vases. Avoid committing entirely to one trend, as this can quickly date your room. By incorporating trends thoughtfully and in moderation, you can keep your home looking fresh and relevant without sacrificing its timelessness.
The Citizenry
Paying Attention to the Little Things
Incorporating minor details is an excellent way to acknowledge contemporary trends, but Emily Ruff from Cohesively Curated Interiors emphasizes the importance of minor details in elevating a room’s timelessness. “I prefer using vintage rugs, artwork, and accessories to impart a warm and classic atmosphere,” she explains. “As for lighting, I always suggest investing in high-quality fixtures because nothing changes a space quite like paint and lighting.”