When it comes to interiors, design trends come and go which can make a space look outdated and obsolete. However, a timeless interior can endure the test of time and never looks out of place. The key to a well-executed timeless design is that it can’t be placed in any particular time period, trend, or style and looks stylish and well-designed regardless of what the current trends are. A timeless design gives you breathing room and can easily adapt as time goes on. If you’re upgrading your home and want to turn an interior space into a timeless one, here is our guide for creating a timeless interior for the future.

Mix Vintage and Modern

A great way to ensure your space is timeless is by mixing antique or vintage pieces with new ones. When it comes to what makes a space timeless, the key is, it can’t be tie to any particular style or era. One of the best ways to achieve this is by mixing vintage pieces with more modern ones, or even design elements with different design styles. With the ideal balance of old and new, you can create a timeless space that’s truly unique and feels classic, lived in, and completely timeless. Not to mention, buying second hand is more sustainable and reduces your personal environmental impact than styling a space with all new pieces.

Invest in Quality Pieces

When creating a timeless interior, the pieces you choose to put into the space is so important. You want to invest in high quality places that will last for many years. While quality furniture and accessories can be expensive, they will save you money in the long haul. Cheap furniture usually doesn’t last very long and needs to be replaced which can cost you more money as a whole. However, you don’t necessarily need to have deep pockets to own quality pieces or have the budget to fill an entire space with high-end furniture all at once. Only invest in pieces you can afford. A great tip is to check out second-hand shops, estate sales, and social media platforms to find gently used, quality pieces.

Don’t Go Too Trendy

While it may be tempting to follow trends, if you want a truly timeless interior, it’s best to skip them when it comes to the overall design. Most design trends only last for a few years and can quickly make a space look outdated. However, if there’s a current trend you absolutely love, the best way to bring it into a space is through less permanent design elements like accessories, throw pillows, artwork, an accent wall or rugs. These elements allow you to embrace a trend but can easily be changed when your taste in design does.

Stick to a Neutral Color Palette

If you want to keep your interior looking timeless, now is probably not the time to design your space with the Pantone color of the year. Similarly to design trends, color palettes are also trendy and can easily date a space over time. A neutral pallet of whites, beiges, or gray  for your walls and furniture will work with any design style and will always look classic and timeless. Instead, add accents of bold colors with smaller elements like accessories, throw pillows, artwork, and rugs which will give the space a breath of life but can easily be swapped out to fit your current style.

Use Sustainable Materials

One of the best ways to create a timeless interior is by using sustainable materials like clay, bamboo, rattan, rammed earth and stone. Not only are these materials easily accessible and not harmful to the environment but they also gravitate towards a neutral palette so they’ll never go out of style and can easily fit into any design scheme.

Focus on Function

Of course when you’re designing a space you want it to look good, however, you also want it to have function, especially if you’re going to be living in this space. A livable space that’s practical and makes sense with your daily life is undoubtedly timeless. A well-proportioned interior with furniture that properly fits in the space and serves a purpose will allow your space to grow with you for many years.

Author

Rethinking The Future (RTF) is a Global Platform for Architecture and Design. RTF through more than 100 countries around the world provides an interactive platform of highest standard acknowledging the projects among creative and influential industry professionals.