Have you ever heard someone say that "timeless" design is the key to creating a home that will look great for years to come? It's a popular concept in interior design, but is it really possible to design a space that will stand the test of time?
Personally, I'm not so sure. I mean, have you ever seen an 80's oak kitchen and thought to yourself, "Wow, that sure has stood the test of time"? Yeah, me neither. It seems like no matter how carefully we design a space, there's always the possibility that it will look outdated at some point down the road.
But before you start despairing about the futility of interior design, let's take a closer look at what we mean when we talk about "timeless" design.
I think many people imagine that timeless design means choosing neutral colours, classic furniture shapes, and avoiding anything that's too trendy or flashy. And while there's certainly something to be said for those design principles, I don't think they necessarily guarantee that a space will be timeless.
Here's why
Even classic furniture shapes and neutral colours can fall out of favour over time. For example, remember when beige walls were all the rage? These days, they're often seen as boring or outdated.
And while mid-century modern furniture has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years, it's entirely possible that it will eventually fall out of favour again.
So what does all of this mean for your interior design projects?
Well, for starters, I don't think you should stress too much about whether or not your space will look "timeless" in ten years. After all, part of the fun of interior design is experimenting with new colours, textures, and styles.
If you're constantly worrying about whether something will look outdated in the future, you'll never be able to enjoy the process fully. That being said, I do think there are some design principles that can help create a space that feels fresh and current, even as design trends come and go.
Here are a few ideas to keep in mind:
Choose quality materials: While it's true that some materials (like oak cabinets) may look dated after a few decades, there are others that have more staying power. For example, natural stone, hardwood floors, and quality fabrics can all add a sense of timelessness to a space.
Mix old and new: By incorporating both vintage and modern pieces into your design, you can create a space that feels layered and interesting. Plus, if you're worried about a particular design element looking outdated in the future, it can be easier to replace one or two pieces rather than completely overhauling your entire space.
Embrace colour: While neutral colours may seem like a safe choice, they can also be boring and unmemorable. By incorporating bold pops of colour (whether through paint, wallpaper, or accessories), you can add personality and interest to your space.
At the end of the day, I think the key to creating a home that feels timeless is to focus on what you love, rather than what's currently trendy.
Sure, there may be some design elements that fall out of favour over time, but as long as you're designing a space that makes you happy and reflects your personality, I think you'll be happy with it for years to come.
