Interior Design: Should You Follow the Trends or Play It Safe?

I love keeping up with current trends (in fashion, food, books-you name it) but that doesn’t mean that I automatically incorporate every single thing declared “on trend” into my life. Sometimes it turns out that the tried and true choice is still the overall best option. The same thing goes for interior design. For example, do you remember when granite countertops were all the rage in the early 2000s? Now when you see them in a home they look completely dated:

That’s one of the problems with following the trends-they don’t always stand the test of time. On the other hand, if you never try anything new in design (and in life for that matter) you run the risk of missing out on something beautiful and exciting - and what’s the fun in that? So should you follow the latest trends or opt for a more timeless approach when decorating your home? It's a debate that has been ongoing for years, with passionate arguments on both sides. Let's delve into this age-old question and explore the pros and cons of each approach.

Pros:

Following trends in interior design is an exciting way to keep your home looking fresh and up-to-date. This kitchen image is a good example of what’s currently in high demand: large slabs of stone used as a backsplash and/or island countertop, a hidden/incorporated hood over the stove, and open wood shelving. By using these popular elements, your kitchen will feel contemporary, cutting edge and connected to this moment’s design landscape.

Cons:

However, as with the previous granite countertop phase, will this style also come and go quickly? It’s hard to know without a crystal ball; what is popular today may be outdated tomorrow. And while this might be a good thing for my business bottom line, I’m actually not a fan of constantly being tied to trends and renovating “just because,” as this can lead to a never-ending cycle of updating your home, is unnecessarily costly and time-consuming, and can have a detrimental environmental impact.

Additionally, following what’s “in” too closely can result in a space that, despite it’s au curaunt vibe, lacks personality and feels cookie-cutter because you’re seeing it in every magazine or home show (shiplap anyone? see image above). In comparison, opting for a more timeless approach to interior design can have its benefits.

Pros:

Classic elements, such as neutral color palettes and wooden floors, are less likely to go out of style quickly, meaning you can enjoy your space for years to come without feeling the need to constantly update it.

Furthermore, using materials that have been around for centuries (e.g. timber, stone, steel, linen) have already proven that they stand the test of time, will thus will help to ensure that your spaces won’t quickly feel outdated. However, sticking only to “timeless” design can have its downside:

Cons:

A room can almost feel too safe (or even boring) and lack the excitement and creativity that following trends can bring. Additionally, solely using traditional materials can still end up feeling stale if not executed thoughtfully, leading to a space that seems stuck in the past rather than the classic look that you are actually going for.

So, what is the right approach when it comes to interior design?!? The answer lies in finding a balance between following trends and incorporating timeless elements in your space.

Consider investing in quality, timeless pieces for foundational furniture like your sofa, dining table, and bed. Then, have fun experimenting with trends on more easily replaceable items like accent pillows, wallpaper (on one wall), throws, bedding, artwork, and accessories.

Ultimately, in the end, the most important thing is to create a space that reflects your own personal style and makes you feel happy and comfortable when you walk in your front door. Whether you choose to follow trends, stick to classic design, or find a balance between the two, the key is to create a space that feels uniquely yours. After all, the best interior design is the one that brings you joy and makes you feel at home.

Still feeling daunted by the idea of pulling together your home with the old and new? Schedule a call with us and we can help guide you through!