Creating Timeless Interiors to Last for Generations
I’m just going to start by saying…I STRONGLY DISLIKE trends.
Yes, I said “strongly dislike” instead of “hate”… This is because I do think they are important to know about in a historical perspective. It’s important to know why styles come and go, what is happening in the world at that time to influence that trend and what lasted from that trend to the next one.
For example, the mid-century modern movement of the 1950s brought natural materials to furniture pieces that has lasted for generations, however, the vibrant colors of the time… not so much. Same with the self expression of the 1960s & 70s. During this time, people opted for more comfortable, less formal spaces throughout their homes. That ideology has stayed true through to the interiors of today, however the shag rugs and linoleum kitchens have thankfully left the building.
When I’m designing a space, no matter the size, budget, or client, I try my best to steer the project to create for generations. Creating timeless interiors is not only a more sustainable way to design, but it also saves money in the long run and creates a calming, less obtrusive space.
Below, I’ve gathered some ways to keep your interiors timeless. These ideas can be incorporated into your home now!!
SELECT MATERIALS & FINISHES THAT LAST
Photo Credit: Kip & Co via Hunting for George
Natural materials tend to be pricier in the beginning but they will last much, MUCH longer than anything man-made. For example, brass will patina over time and look even more beautiful in 20 years than when originally installed versus matte black that shows every stain, water mark, toothpaste splatter in the world. Same with a 100% wool rug. Wool has the same natural durability on an animal as it does in a rug. Wool rugs and fabrics can last up to 20 years longer than their synthetic counterparts, plus it’s a naturally renewable material (sheep have to shed their coats each year). Using natural metals, wool fabrics and natural stone tile will create a timeless space every time without even trying.
2. EARTHY, NEUTRAL TONES
Photo Credit: Jake Arnold Designs; Michael Clifford
Using colors that we see everyday…greens, browns, grays, sky blues, mauves… These are typically calming to your mind and to your eyes because they are the colors that make up the natural world around us. Basically, we are used to seeing them all the time so they are great to design with! Most people tend to not get as annoyed at a chocolate brown color as they do a neon green…Just saying. So, next time you’re choosing that paint color… just go neutral. I promise, you’ll love it.
3. ECLECTIC MIX OF STYLES
Photo Credit: JDP Interiors; Michael Clifford
I’ve always loved mixing styles. I think this stems from the collective nature of my parents and the way my houses always looked growing up. We had antique chests next to a mid-century Eames Chair on top of a cow hide rug with artwork we found in Germany… and I love that!! When you design a whole room with the same pieces or a series from your favorite catalogue it’s easy to get over it pretty quickly or feel behind in style when the trend completely changes next season.
4. REFINISH, REFURB, REPURPOSE
Photo Credit: Natalie Paquin via Instagram
When I was growing up, I was always redesigning my bedroom. Moving my bed into different positions… I’m pretty sure I had that bed in every single location in that room that I could – Once it was even in the middle of the room, though that didn’t last long. Anyways… I’ve carried that concept throughout my design career as well. There’s no need to constantly be buying new things and throwing away old. I love painting a dresser a new color or adding new hardware to it. Even just moving items into a different room will help give new life to the piece and to the space. I always try to repurpose a piece at least 3 times before donating or recycling it. You can always find new life and if you’re struggling, reach out to me! We love this aspect of design so much.
So, there you have it. Just a few ideas to creating a timeless interior – Use these concepts throughout your home or office, really anywhere and you will have a space you want to come back to year after year.
With Love, Annie