Designing a stylish interior for your home can seem like an endless endeavor. Just when you’ve perfected the latest look to take Instagram by storm, another snazzy trend comes along, leaving the design you worked so hard on feeling dated.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. Get off the design treadmill by creating a forever-chic interior. When you stick with trends that endure, you’ll be able to avoid destined-to-be-dated fads once and for all.
In this post, we give you a rundown of five future-proof interior design elements and how you can incorporate them into your own space.
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1. Black and White
When it comes to color palettes, there’s none more classic than black and white. That’s why you’ll see this duo appear over and over again, no matter the era. Its blank-slate character makes it adaptable for any style, from ultra-modern to antique.
Rooms with a black and white theme typically use one of the shades as the foundational color. For example, in the room pictured above, white is used as the primary hue, covering the walls and room finishings. Black is added in the form of decor, giving the space some high-contrast drama.
Timeless design is flexible. It’s able to adapt throughout the years and still look great. That’s one of the best things about black and white themes: they’re easy to freshen up anytime you’re in the mood for a change. Simply add a few boldly-colored throw pillows, or even some curtains in a fun print. You can regularly switch out your accents for a look that’s always interesting and evolving. And since black and white is a neutral base, it goes with just about everything.
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2. Built-In Storage
Functional design is always a winner. That’s why built-in storage units will never stop being highly desirable. Not only do they provide you the convenience of storage space without needing extra furniture, they also give you an opportunity to set up beautiful displays. For this reason, it’s no wonder that built-in storage shelves often become the focal point of a room.
Paint them in a contrasting hue to make them draw the eye even more, or match them with the surrounding walls to blend them in. Doing the latter will make the shelving appear to recede toward the walls, creating the illusion of a wider space.
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3. Hardwood Floors
No matter the decade, no matter the furnishing style, hardwood floors have always been prized.
Like most natural materials, the organic texture of wood never loses its appeal. It instantly adds warmth to any space and can be chosen to suit rustic or contemporary designs.
Hardwood’s lasting popularity has resulted in its diversification. Now there are a wide range of hardwood flooring products to choose from, each with their own strengths and suitabilities. Solid wood planks still exist for traditionalists, while engineered hardwood flooring offers extreme durability and affordability.
The natural origin of hardwood may have you wondering, “But is it eco-friendly?” After all, nothing can truly stay in style if it’s not sustainable. Luckily, the many advancements in hardwood production has resulted in a wealth of sustainably-sourced options, even those that can improve your home’s energy efficiency.
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4. Thoughtfully-Chosen Art
There’s a big difference between picking generic factory prints and selecting art that means something to you. Graphic decals, slogans, and mass-produced prints are popping up everywhere these days, but they tend to make spaces feel impersonal.
That’s the trouble with trendy design - it often results in a look that actually drains the personality from a room. And when a room has a dime-a-dozen aesthetic, you can be certain it’s going to go out of style.
Design that’s timeless is best achieved by expressing your personal style. Avoid the cookie-cutter look by only choosing art that resonates with you personally. Is it there just because it matches your decor, or because you truly love it? When it’s the latter, it shows. Art that’s been chosen with care will add warmth and character to your home in a way that will always be fashionable.
By ignoring fads and simply picking pieces you adore, you’ll create an interior that you’ll love spending time in. Who could ask for better design than that?
5. Universal Design
There’s one trend that’s growing, and its practicality makes it certain that it will always be a perk for homebuyers. It’s universal design, an approach that focuses on making spaces comfortable and accessible to everyone, including people who are older or have disabilities.
A recent survey showed that homeowners are increasingly incorporating universal design features into their renovations. These features include:
- more spacious layouts
- open floor plans
- doorless and walk-in showers
- shower benches
- wall-mounted sinks
- wide entry doors
Design elements like these allow one to easily move around the home and take care of daily needs, even if they’re using wheelchairs or walkers.
Since homes are typically bought with the intention of staying long-term, it’s always a great idea to seek out design that will remain accessible even as you age. And if you’re planning on selling your home, the now-retiring baby boomers are looking for living spaces that can better accommodate their mobility concerns.
We hope these tips help you make your space a more beautiful place to live for years to come. Check out our other article on home design trends for more expert design advice and inspiring ideas!
