One of the most common questions I get in my DMs is some variation of:
“Shari, is zellige tile timeless or trendy?”
“What do you think of Boucle?”
“What about gold/bronze hardware?”
I get it. We’re constantly bombarded with the latest design trends, and it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking every stylish piece will stand the test of time. But the truth? Most trends have a shelf life, and what looks fresh now might feel outdated in just a few years.
What Makes a Design Timeless?
Timeless design isn’t about following fleeting trends—it’s about balance, proportion, and quality materials. The best examples of enduring interiors often draw from established design movements, such as Georgian, Minimalist, and Mid-Century Modern. These styles have stood the test of time because they rely on strong architectural principles, functional design, and a focus on materials that age beautifully.
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Georgian design is known for its symmetry, elegant mouldings, and classic proportions.
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Minimalist design strips away the excess and focuses on clean lines and functional spaces.
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Mid-Century Modern emphasises organic shapes, warm wood tones, and thoughtful craftsmanship.
So, before you commit to a passing trend, ask yourself: Does this piece align with these principles? If not, you might be looking at something that will feel dated sooner rather than later.
Trends to Approach with Caution
I’m not saying trends are bad, but they should be handled carefully. Certain materials, fabrics, and finishes might look amazing right now, but in a few years, they’ll be a telltale sign of when your home was last updated.
Bouclé Furniture
Bouclé is the perfect example of a trend that exploded overnight. It’s cozy, textured, and undeniably stylish—but will it last? The reality is, this fabric is high-maintenance and prone to looking worn out quickly. If you love the look, opt for a bouclé accent chair rather than committing to an entire bouclé sofa.
Ultra-Trendy Finishes
I absolutely adore brass—it’s warm, sophisticated, and timeless when used thoughtfully. But that doesn’t mean every single finish in your home needs to be brass. Instead, think like a designer and mix your finishes. For example, use brass for tapware, then introduce a secondary metal for cabinetry hardware or mirror frames. Also, consider mixing both polished and brushed finishes to create depth and a more curated feel for a subtle contrast and balance within a space, making it feel more intentional and layered.
Mass-Produced Fast Furniture & Décor
Big-box stores churn out trendy, low-cost furniture and décor pieces that often don’t last more than a few years. While these may seem like a budget-friendly option, they tend to wear out quickly and contribute to waste. Investing in solid wood furniture, classic upholstery, and well-crafted décor—such as handwoven textiles, artisan ceramics, and timeless lighting—will always be a better long-term choice. Not only is it better for the environment, reducing waste and the demand for mass-produced goods, but it’s also kinder to your wallet in the long run, saving you from the constant cycle of replacing cheap items. I am also a big believer that a well-decorated home can also have a profound impact on your mental health—it helps us feel connected to our surroundings and creates a sense of peace and stability in our daily lives.
Where You Can Go Bold (and Have Fun with Trends!)
Now, I know most people think "timeless" means beige and boring—but that’s not the case at all. Timeless design is about balance, proportion, and personality. Here are some places where we love to inject colour and character while keeping your space feeling classic:
1. Sofas
Yes, practicality matters—especially if you have pets or kids. But that doesn’t mean you have to stick to a dull beige or grey. A rich jewel tone or a deep earthy shade will bring character while still feeling timeless.
2. Area Rugs
One of the biggest missed opportunities for colour and texture is in your area rug. If your sofa is neutral, this is your chance to introduce warmth, vibrancy, and a rich tactile element. A bold, textured rug can anchor a space and set the tone for the entire room, adding both visual and sensory depth. The same applies to decorative accents—layering in different materials like marble, linen, wool, ceramic, and glass creates a curated, collected feel rather than a flat, one-dimensional look.
3. Accent Chairs
If you’re hesitant about committing to a colourful sofa, an accent chair is the perfect compromise. But remember: an “accent” piece should actually stand out. Skip the safe colours here.
4. Bedding
Even if you swear by crisp white sheets, your pillows, blankets, and duvet covers are where you can introduce moodier hues or playful patterns.
5. Cushions & Throws
These are the easiest way to experiment with trends because they can be swapped out seasonally. Opt for handcrafted or vintage textiles to add depth and uniqueness.
6. Artwork & Decorative Pieces
Forget the generic taupe and grey abstracts—they often leave a space feeling sad and uninspired. Choose artwork that inspires you - the whole point of art is for it to make you FEEL.
7. Lighting
You may not want to change out every fixture in your home, but a bold table or floor lamp? Absolutely. Unique pendant lights or vintage-inspired sconces can also add personality without overwhelming a space.
8. Paint
Painting a bedroom or bathroom in a fun colour is a relatively easy update that makes a huge impact. And if you truly love a bold colour, consider using it on cabinetry for a more custom look.
Bringing It All Together
Understanding the balance between timeless design and trend-driven details is what makes a home feel curated rather than outdated. By investing in high-quality, well-proportioned furnishings and layering in personal, colourful décor touches in the right places, you’ll create a space that not only looks beautiful today but will still feel fresh and relevant years down the line.
And if navigating these choices feels overwhelming—well, that’s where I come in. I specialise in designing interiors that blend timeless design with modern sensibility and take the guesswork out of it so you can enjoy a home that truly reflects you. Let’s create something lasting, together.