Artists and designers always ponder, "What makes something withstand the passage of time?" And there's not one definitive way to answer this. A timeless design has staying power. And its emotional power and consistency are what makes it classic and lasting.When it comes to interior decorating, there are one of two routes you can go. You can design and decorate for the latest trends. Or, you can design and decorate a living space that you and your clients will love until the end of time.If you decide to go with the latter, how do create a look that you and your clients will forever love? Here are 4 tips for perfecting the look of timeless design!
1. A Timeless Home Should Be Comfortable & Functional
A home that can withstand the test of time is one that will always accommodate those who live inside it... and for years to come. Take a young, single person, for example. They may feel inclined to decorate their home in a bohemian, shabby chic, or industrial style. Trendy styles may work for a few years. For some folks, they may work for a lifetime. But that’s not always the case.If you're looking to design your own home with timeless decor, think about what's most important to you. Do you do a lot of cooking or work from home? Are you planning to have children sometime in the near future?If you're designing someone else's home, it's important to get a good grasp of their lifestyle - now and in the future.
2. Don’t Overlook the Architecture
Some interior design styles have endured the test of time. Classicism, for instance, emerged out of Europe in the 17th century. Homes today still draw on classic-inspired space, rectangular structure, and symmetry. Whatever style of architecture it is that you draw from, it should be one with a classic style. It should be a style that's present in older and newer homes alike. Most importantly, the decorations and details must complement and enhance the architecture. There should be clean lines and distinct patterns. The materials used in creating the foundation should also be classic. Brick, marble, stone, and wood are just some examples.
3. Lasting Designs Endure & Resist Trends
A timeless design is never a trend nor is it ever inspired by one. There's a striking balance of simplicity and sophisticated in a classic look. And at the same time, it's adaptable and provides functionality to one's home. A home that screams, "I'm trendy!" will most likely lose its appeal within a few years. It is possible to showcase personality even against a classic design scheme. Every few years, you can switch out your focal point decor pieces. These are things like vases, paintings, and statues. So long as a home contains rich, neutral colors, proportioned furniture, and subtle decorations... it's possible to balance a timeless look and temporary personality.
4. Give Trendy Colors & Furniture a Timeless Touch
Neutral colors and timeless interior design often go hand-in-hand. In classic homes, you'll find a lot of shades of gray, beige, and white. But that's not to say you can't incorporate other colors, either. In fact, there are many classic color choices void of neutrals. Navy blue, emerald green, and rich red are some examples. There are also a lot of other colors that you can adapt to a classic home. Creamy yellow and muted blue or pink are excellent color choices that can work.In a timeless decor scheme, furniture should never make a statement. It can certainly have a strong presence. But it also shouldn't overwhelm a room.What if you're working with trendy furniture? Pairing trendy furniture with older, more traditional furniture can make them timeless. Antiques or reproductions of antiques can also go a long way.And always consider breaking interior design rules to perfect the look of a home.
Perfect the Look of Timeless Design
A timeless home is one that reflects a balance of richness and subtlety... simplicity and sophistication. With these 4 tips for perfecting the look of timeless design, you'll create homes people will love for years to come.Does your portfolio reflect classic interior decorating? Are you looking to turn your eye for timeless design into a full-fledged business? Our Pro Plan can help you start and grow your business from the ground up. Learn more about which plan is right for you!
