FAR TOO OFTEN in the design world, trends are slated as being “over” or “dated” almost as soon as they’ve begun. Think slate grey walls, Tungsten bulbs, exposed brick or any other design feature that was everywhere for a brief period, before suddenly falling out of favour.
So how can you fill your rooms with items and materials that not only appeal to your tastes, but that also have staying power and won’t date your space overnight?
I’ve put together a list of eternal classics – a selection of fairly safe bets for home design that will endure one, five or even fifteen years from now. These seven home design features will stand the test of time, at least until your tastes change…
1. A Chesterfield sofa: These classic roll-top silhouettes, usually with nail-head trim on the arms and deep button tufting on the body, have been around for hundreds of years. Be it a full suite or a singular piece in a mix and match context, Chesterfields add instant traditional charm to your living space. Check out mid-range furniture manufacturers for affordable options in leather, velvet or easy-clean upholstery.
2. Solid timber furniture: It can be as rustic or as polished as you like, but solid timber is a mainstay in interior design. This might seem like an obvious one, but in the age of flat-packed MDF, it’s becoming increasingly rare to find a stand-alone piece of solid timber furniture in the modern home. And because of its unparalleled character, that’s a shame.
3. Carrara marble surfaces (or budget-friendly lookalikes): Don’t let the hype throw you off! Yes, Carrara marble has been the backdrop for every fashion blogger flatlay for the last couple of years. But white marble (or indeed its inexpensive and more practical lookalike, Corian) is a timeless and elegant material. Get the look for even less with peel-and-stick coverings for your floors or work surfaces.
4. Mid-century office furniture: Herman Miller style office furniture is probably up there with some of the best investments you can make for your entire space. If you work from home, having ergonomically sound seating is something that will serve you very well. We probably spend more time in our work seating than we do on the couch, so bear that in mind when budgeting. Chairs and desks aside, office accessories like the iconic Anglepoise lamp or an Uten Silo wall organisers are as timeless as they are useful.
5. Brass light fixtures or door knobs: Brass is a material that really had a moment recently, but it was trendy for a reason. Aged or polished, brass can be used in lighting, furniture and door knobs to add some warmth to virtually any space in the home. Think of it as copper’s more serious older sibling.
6. Linen coverings for beds, cushions and tables: Linen is a material that looks and feels better with age, especially if you go for more natural hues like creams or light greys. Raid your granny’s attic, or keep an eye out for linen pieces to go in your bedroom or dining room. Big love for its relaxed “oh, it’s supposed to look that creased!” vibe. Life is too short to spend over an ironing board.
7. Maximalist light fixtures: Statement lighting is so subjective, that it’s never really in style or out. Because of its quirkiness, it can be a focal feature with impact that can last for decades. If you’re hesitant to splurge on something so bold, check out second-hand shops for affordable vintage finds. Another tip is to stick with neutral colours, metallics or glass. Shape, size and colour can be a little overkill, so stick with two of the three.
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
have your say