Change is the only constant, especially in this day and age where technology is dynamic and fast. What’s popular today could be down the drain tomorrow. However, there are anomalies, because they go beyond the expected – they endure despite the changes.
Speaking of timelessness, there are also decor elements that are timeless. They never change despite the changing trends. If ever you have incorporated the following design elements in your house, don’t change them because they are here to stay:
Green is Always In
Houseplants not only bring some freshness into the home, but they also provide a sense of peace and harmony in the room. Plants are good decor elements to add when you’re thinking of a minimalistic design. Adding rustic furnishings and nature-inspired design themes into the equation will double the charm.
If you have decided to go down this design path for your apartment, it would take some effort and time to take care of them. If you think you have no time, you can still get some houseplants that require little attention, such as succulents, cactuses, or the snake plant. Another alternative is using a nature-inspired wallpaper.
Wood and White Paint
A lot of people say that the combination of natural surfaces and whitewashed spaces are outdated. On the contrary, it remains popular and is preferred by a lot of apartment owners because of its combination of warmth and cleanliness. Such minimalistic designs are also ideal for small apartment spaces because of its practicality and simplicity.
Raw Textures
Exposed bricks, unpainted wood, these are examples of raw textures. Use that together with luxurious elements, such as warm metals and marble, and you have for yourself an edgy design that remains timeless over the years. Not only that, the combination also exudes a feeling of warmth and hominess to your room, reminding you of home-cooked meals in the evening or a warm cup of coffee in the mornings.
The best part of this design is that you don’t need to spend a lot of effort to pull it off. All you need to do is mix and match these elements. You can also throw in some rustic decor pieces to complete the sophisticated look.
…But What Makes a Design Timeless?
Despite the examples/samples given above, you might still find yourself asking the question, ‘What makes a design timeless?’ Here are some practical tips on how to do that:
Timeless designs do not copy from trends
The moment you decide that you will follow what’s trendy at the moment, that itself already defeats your purpose. The explanation is simple – trends come and go. Think of timeless. What can you think of – sophisticated yet straightforward, and each piece has a story to tell. Most of all, timeless pieces are subtle and adaptable. They are never flashy.
Timeless designs are functional
Functionality is always an element of timelessness. Take note, though – being functional does not equate to boring. Think of iconic furniture and decorative pieces, such as Louis Ghost chairs by Philippe Starck and the quintessential Arco lamp. Such elements are functional yet sophisticated, making a statement that will continue to stand out from year to year.
On the other hand, avoid oversized and puffy furniture as well as busy patterns, shapes, and spaces. They might be fun to look at now, but they will soon look outdated.
Timeless is neutral
Neutral colours accentuate a room without overpowering the design. Neutrals, such as off-white and beige, coupled with bright white mouldings as accents, are the perfect backdrop for your antique furniture, minimalist design, or classical pieces.
Neutrals can also be coupled with the bright, trendy colours but make sure that the latter does not set the tone for the room.
Timeless is classic
Classic designs and materials stand the test of time. You can draw inspiration from classic design by incorporating elements, such as architectural mouldings, stripes, and busts. Experts advise that you should treat your house like a mannequin and the interior details are the clothes. Thus, the design should complement the details. Moreover, timeless design also incorporates natural elements, such as wood, cotton, and brick.
You can also throw in a few antique pieces into the mix. When we say antique pieces, it does not necessarily mean the real ones which also cost thousands, even millions, of dollars. They can also mean the reproductions of antique pieces which are readily available and less pricey.
Final Takeaway
Timeless designs are not busy nor loud, but simple and classy. Emphasise clean lines, incorporate a few antique pieces, and complement neutral colours with classic ones, such as navy blue, dark green, and black.