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If you’re someone who is constantly swapping out the pillows on your living room couch, repainting your guest bathroom, and restyling your coffee tables, you know that home decor trends come and go. But whether your tastes at the moment run toward whimsigoth or cottage-core, there are probably a few choices you come back to again and again—elements so classic you might declare you’ll stick with them forever.
What Makes Decor Choices Timeless?
These elements likely share a few common qualities:
- Versatile – They can fit with many different styles and pieces.
- Aesthetically Pleasing – While beauty is subjective, most of us can appreciate it when we see it.
- Functional – Designs that are overly complicated or difficult to maintain rarely stand the test of time.
There’s also a practical side to timeless decor. Think about wood floors, built-in storage, or the use of natural light. Not only do these elements look good, but they serve a real purpose.
“They make your home more livable and functional, which is something people aren’t willing to give up, no matter what the latest trend is,” Pendergrast says. “Ultimately, timeless design is about creating spaces that are beautiful, functional, and meaningful.”
Let’s dive into 11 decorating choices interior designers say will always remain in style.
1. Bookshelves
Like any classic choice, bookshelves will grow with you as your style evolves. You can endlessly re-style and adjust them to hold whatever pieces you acquire. Plus, they serve as a diary of the books you’re reading and the conversations you’re having.
“Literature never goes out of style. A home without books isn’t a home, in my opinion,” says Alex Bass, founder and CEO of Art Advisory & Interior Design Studio Salon 21. “A bookshelf is a blank canvas to explore your curatorial abilities. It grows with you and can be constantly reorganized.”
2. Natural Materials
Natural materials like wood and stone only get better with time.
“Using natural materials in your home is always a good idea,” says Pendergrast. “They bring warmth, texture, and that feeling of authenticity we all crave.”
Wood adds a cozy, lived-in vibe, while stone is durable and elegant. These materials age gracefully, developing character over time and fitting into any decor style.
3. Marble Mixed with Wood
This inimitable combination of marble and wood can add timeless charm to your decor. Picture wooden chairs around a marble-topped dining table or a wood coffee table with a marble top.
“The combination is both timeless, modern, and neutral while bringing a luxurious feel to your space,” says Bass.
4. A Leather Armchair
Leather furniture gains character with age, its patina deepening and transforming over time.
“Leather fits any type of design aesthetic, whether you’re going for something mid-century or more traditional,” Bass says. “I love seeing the wear in a piece, the cracks, and the wrinkles.”
5. Paint Colors Inspired by Nature
Choosing paint colors inspired by nature—soft blues, calming greens, whites, and warm tans—creates a peaceful, balanced space.
“These colors are easy on the eyes and make your home feel like a retreat,” Pendergrast says. “Earthy, natural shades are always in style because they ground a space effortlessly.”
6. A Wooden Table
A wooden table, whether it’s an antique farm table or a modern design, is worth the investment.
“You’ll always find a use for it, and it’s something sturdy that will never go out of style,” Bass says.
7. Gilded Mirrors
A gilded mirror can add elegance to any space. They’re versatile pieces that complement both classic and modern decor.
“It easily enhances any room, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere,” Bass says. “Gilded mirrors’ ornate detailing reflects craftsmanship and artistry, standing out in any space.”
8. Stripes in Textiles and Wallpaper
Stripes provide a classic pattern that adds structure without overwhelming the space.
“You can throw stripes on curtains, rugs, or even wallpaper, and they’ll add structure without overpowering the room,” says Pendergrast.
Stripes are incredibly flexible and blend seamlessly with other patterns.
9. Natural Light
While it may seem obvious, maximizing natural light can make or break a room.
“It’s hard to beat the look and feel of sunlight streaming into a room,” says Pendergrast. “It makes any space feel bigger, brighter, and more welcoming.”
10. Built-In Decorative Details
Elements like crown molding or wainscoting add instant character to a space. Even if your home doesn’t have these features, they’re often easy to add.
“These features add a little polish without feeling too stuffy, and they make the room feel more custom and unique,” says Pendergrast.
11. Checkerboard Floors
Checkerboard floors, especially in black and white, feel classic without being dated.
“A checkerboard pattern brings timeless appeal that’s also contemporary,” says Bass. “It’s a simple yet impactful way to ground a space and make a bold, enduring statement.”
These timeless choices blend beauty and function, making them reliable design staples that bring warmth and style to any home.
