Interior design trends cycle a whole lot faster these days. One minute, a particular style is trending with billions of views on TikTok and Instagram, and the next minute, it’s completely over. So, how do you keep up? The answer is: Maybe you don’t.

Instead of chasing trends, it makes a lot more sense to go for timeless designs that you can enjoy for years to come. This approach not only takes the guesswork out of what to choose, but also saves you money because you aren’t constantly buying new things—and you're less likely to grow tired of your space. Here are six timeless design ideas that will never go out of style, according to interior designers.

Patterns can be tricky to choose but according to interior designer Francesca Grace, you can never go wrong with stripes. “Stripes are a classic design element that have stood the test of time. They are timeless due to their simplicity and versatility,” she says.

Another good thing about stripes is that they can be incorporated in so many ways, from bold and vibrant stripes to subtle and neutral, making them easily adaptable to different tastes and styles. “The visual illusion of elongation or widening that stripes can create makes them a go-to choice for enhancing a space and adding visual interest,” Grace says. 

While many people will say that wallpaper has had a resurgence in recent years—it technically never went out of style. “Wallpaper has been a staple in interior design for centuries, and its popularity endures due to its ability to add texture and personality to a space," Grace says. "While specific patterns and styles of wallpaper may come and go with trends, the concept of using wallpaper as a decorative element remains timeless.”

“Whether it's classic floral patterns, geometric designs, or textured finishes, wallpaper offers endless possibilities for customization and expression.”

Wallpaper is also great for adding color and pattern to any room, especially if the furniture is neutral. The popularization of peel-and-stick wallpaper has also made it easier to install—appealing to renters or anyone who likes to periodically change things up. 

Grace says earth tones offer a sense of warmth, tranquility, and connection to the natural world that transcends fleeting fads. “These colors create a harmonious backdrop for any space and can be easily paired with other hues to create cohesive and inviting environments," she explains. "Earth tones complement a wide range of design styles, from rustic and traditional to modern and minimalist.”

Going with a neutral palette is always a good idea for more expensive pieces and permanent fixtures. “Try sticking to a neutral color palette when it comes to paints, tiles, countertops, window treatments, and large furniture pieces,” says Ellen Holt, Lead Designer at MDI Luxury Design.

With a neutral base, it’s easy to incorporate unique statement pieces into a space to make it feel personal yet cohesive. (However, if bold colors are more your style, then go ahead and skip this advice and go with the palette that feels best for you.)

According to Holt, natural materials will never go out of style. This is especially true when it comes to permanent fixtures. “Consider selecting hardwood flooring, natural stone countertops, ceramic tiles, and materials made of linen, cotton, or wool,” Holt says.

Another natural design element that never goes out of style is plants. If you’re not a plant person, Holt suggests incorporating natural elements through landscapes and botanical artwork instead. 

Whether it’s those dining chairs you’ve wanted for your entire life or the throw you’ve had since your post-grad years that still makes you feel cozy—if you love something, it will be timeless to you. “We've all heard the saying if you love something, it will never go out of style, and I couldn't agree more," Carrie Moore of Carrie Moore Interior Design says. "In my home, there are things I've had for over a decade and I'm still not tired of them."

One of Moore’s favorite timeless elements is a white paper lantern over her dining table. “The way the paper illuminates is soft and glowy and reminiscent of a full moon," she says. "We often use paper lanterns on client projects because we love them so much.”

Source: 6 Timeless Design Ideas That Will Never Go Out Of Style Real Simple (March 26, 2024) Amanda Lauren