For many homeowners, design choices can be overwhelming. Selecting surfaces, fixtures, and colors can seem like a daunting task.
But it doesn’t have to be. To make design choices that won’t look outdated five or ten years from now, approach the design selection process by taking a look around you. Which colors and textures in your home do you love? Which pieces (such as furniture and artwork) best reflect your design style? Identify these elements first and use them as your foundation to arrive at the ideal design aesthetic that is uniquely you.
How to Create a Look That Won’t Go Out of Style
Do you want a clean, contemporary look or a relaxed, eclectic vibe? And consider how you will use your space: A young couple with no children will view functional space differently than a family of six would. Creating that vision for how you want your home to look, feel and function will dictate your design selections. You can incorporate both timeless and trendy elements in your home — it doesn’t need to be an all-or-nothing choice.
Classic hardwood flooring and white cabinets and accented with a bold and stylish light fixture for a modern look.
When Should You Follow Trends and When Should You Go with Classic Selections?
To cultivate the right look, think balance. Invest in timeless profiles for big-ticket items such as cabinets, countertops, millwork and substantial furniture pieces. Offset those classic elements with trendy selections that are easier and less expensive to update:
Paint color, a tile backsplash, light fixtures, cabinet hardware and textiles are great elements to have some fun with — dip your toe in trending design without completely jumping in.
Playing with scale is another way to infuse your living space with an on-trend look. For example, installing timeless flooring like hardwood in a large area such as the kitchen or family room makes sense. Selecting something trendy such as bold patterned tile for a smaller space like a powder room or laundry room lets you enjoy the trend without commanding the entire living space.
Classic Design Choices for Timeless Appeal
For a timeless look in your home, there are classic design choices that will always be in style:
- Clean lines and neutral colors
- Hardwood floors
- White cabinets
- Built-in shelving
- Marble—countertops, floors, and tiles
- Stainless steel
How to Try Out the Trends Without a Huge Investment
White and black is a timeless color combination that, while never truly out of style, is really hot right now. We also see many bold color applications in Mid-Century modern designs, from painted cabinets (just the island or the entire kitchen) to colored appliances, including big ticket ranges and refrigerators to toasters. If you aren’t ready to take the plunge, you can start by adding a few trendy accessories to see how you feel without a huge investment. You can add modern drama and flair to your home by simply adding color. If you find that you absolutely love the color of the moment, then it’s time to consider bolder moves like new carpeting.
Design for YOU
Looking beyond what’s trending on HGTV and Pinterest, it’s most important to make design choices that fit you and your home. If the trend is blue cabinets, but you hate the color blue, don’t put them in your house! Fill your home with colors and design elements that you love.
Trends and styles will evolve — and so will your personal style.
Create a timeless backdrop to allow trends to come and go within your space without having to remodel your home every few years. Good luck!
The Best Is Yet to Come,
Beth Orr
