Interior Design that Lasts

Over the years, I have noticed that some design choices lose their charm almost as soon as the paint dries, while others remain relevant year after year. As someone who has designed and refreshed many spaces—both my own and for others—I have come to appreciate what truly lasts in interior design.

It's not just about chasing the latest trends or filling your home with what is "in" this season. It’s about creating a space that remains comfortable, grounded, and beautiful, regardless of how styles evolve. Here are a few design elements that I have found to stand the test of time, along with some lessons I’ve learned firsthand.

Quality Over Quantity

Focus on investing in fewer, higher-quality items: a solid wood table, a well-crafted sofa with classic lines, and timeless lighting fixtures. High-quality materials, such as real wood, wool rugs, and linen upholstery, not only age beautifully but also develop character over time. Vintage pieces that add uniqueness to a space feel enduring and contribute a sense of history to the home.

Neutral Foundations

Trends may change, but a balanced and neutral foundation provides a timeless canvas. I like to describe the concept of "livable luxury"—pieces that feel timeless yet still personal. I advocate for using performance fabrics that look and feel sophisticated rather than purely functional. I'm not suggesting an all-beige approach, which we’ve all seen too often. Instead, I prefer to layer shades of white, cream, soft blues and greens, or muted earth tones, and introduce warmth through texture. Combining a light neutral sofa with textured pillows and a warm maple coffee table. Even years later, the space still feels fresh because the neutral palette lets you easily update accents without redoing the whole room.

Color drenching

The return to color is a significant element in many of my designs. One technique I use is color drenching, which involves covering an entire space in a single hue. This approach creates a bold, monochromatic, and often maximalist effect. I applied this technique in my client’s primary bedroom, and they absolutely love the soothing atmosphere it creates. The deep aqua color palette contributes to a great night’s sleep.

Wallpaper, Any and everywhere

Wallpaper, once considered an outdated choice often associated with grandmothers' living rooms, has made a strong comeback. It is currently experiencing a resurgence in popularity, with floral prints and textured designs such as grasscloth and wood-veneer wallpapers leading the trend. In fact, every project I undertake includes at least one to four rooms featuring wallpaper.

Additionally, drapery remains a classic element that is both beautiful and functional. It protects your floors and furniture from sunlight and helps keep your home warmer in the winter.

Biophilic Design

People are fully embracing both indoor and outdoor living, seamlessly blending the two. In Naples, FL, where my firm is located, our homes typically feature very high ceilings that allow abundant natural light to fill the space. This results in colors appearing more vibrant and textures and patterns standing out more than they do in northern climates.

In my designs, I strive to create a sense of continuity and flow between interior and exterior spaces by bringing the outside in. The trend of designing interiors that connect to outdoor spaces is at the forefront of our clients' preferences. Your view of the outdoors from inside is essential for overall well-being.

Slow Personal design

One of the most enduring design elements is not something you can purchase—it's personal meaning. A framed photograph from a family trip, a handmade ceramic bowl, or a painting by a local artist can make a room feel truly unique and authentic. In a fast-paced world, many people are seeking homes that reflect their personal experiences and journeys, rather than opting for mass-produced items that arrive overnight. My clients appreciate it when we incorporate one-of-a-kind artwork that resonates with them or when we design around a family heirloom, such as an antique cabinet.

Final Thoughts

Timeless design isn't about avoiding trends; it's about building a foundation that withstands them. When you invest in quality, embrace natural materials, and infuse your home with your personality, your space will never feel outdated. Over time, styles evolve, but a well-designed space adapts with you, telling your story year after year.

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