Timeless Home Design Trends Endorsed by Professionals Persist, as Perceived by Interior Experts
Evolving like fashion trends, home design styles often change and transform. Some interior aesthetics, such as the classic Tuscan-style rustic decor or shabby chic, can be trendy one moment and dated the next. Yet, certain design styles have a timeless quality that continues to be relevant for decades or even centuries. These enduring design styles help preserve your home's timeless charm despite the ever-changing decor trends.
To uncover which design styles stand the test of time, we consulted experienced interior designers.
- Cheryl Clendenon, principal designer and owner of In Detail Interiors
- Deana Duffek, principal designer at Duffek Design and design authority member at Baldwin Hardware
- Gretchen Rivera, principal designer and founder of Casa Casual Interiors
- Joyce Huston, lead interior designer & co-founder at Decorilla
01 of 07## Modern Minimalism
The essence of minimalist design boils down to "less is more." While western modern minimalism is known for clean lines, simple silhouettes, and a neutral color palette, its versatility lends it a timeless quality. "Its versatility allows it to complement various aesthetics while adapting effortlessly to changing trends," explains interior designer Cheryl Clendenon. This design style is distinguished by uncluttered spaces, open floor plans, and an abundance of natural light.
02 of 07## Scandinavian Style
Like minimalism, the Scandinavian style embraces comfort and warmth. The term "hygge" signifies creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere, central to this simple yet comfortable design principle. "The Scandinavian style remains timeless," says interior designer Deana Duffek, "by balancing practicality with nature and beauty, producing spaces that are visually appealing and comfortable to inhabit."
Similar to minimalism, Scandinavian style features functional layouts, clean lines, and a palette of neutral colors. This aesthetic emphasizes the use of natural materials and sustainability.
03 of 07## Modern Organic
Modern organic design draws inspiration from nature, unifying indoor and outdoor spaces through color, material, and shape. "This approach infuses authenticity through materials," says Joyce Huston, lead interior designer and co-founder of Decorilla. "It's a design that feels refreshing, not staged."
The timelessness of nature is reflected in the consistent use of wood, natural light, and earthy colors. Handcrafted ceramics, natural textures like stone, and plants contribute depth and visual intrigue to a modern organic space.
04 of 07## Mid-Century Modern
Mid-century modern design is characterized by simple geometric forms and lines, combining materials such as wood, metal, vinyl, and glass. This style, born in the mid-20th century, boasts bold accent colors and values functionality over ornamentation. "Iconic pieces like Eames shell chairs and Saarinen's Tulip table," says interior designer Gretchen Rivera, "symbolize its minimalist appeal, creating modern interiors that are both comfortable and stylish."
The style's effortless vibe and clean, unfussy look have endured through the decades and remain popular today. It pairs seamlessly with vintage and contemporary spaces, making it an enduring favorite, says Clendenon.
05 of 07## Classic Traditional
Easily distinguishable by traditional architectural details like wainscoting, crown molding, and symmetry, this classic style dates as far back as the 18th century. Key elements include chandeliers, bookshelves, elegant furniture, classic patterns, and rich color palettes that often incorporate jewel tones. "Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a sense of history and refinement," says Clendenon. Today, blending traditional style with modern elements has become popular, ensuring updated homes retain their historical feel.
06 of 07## Coastal
Time-honored, coastal interior design captures a relaxed and tailored aesthetic. "Coastal design imparts a sense of tranquility with light, airy spaces, natural textures, and a comforting color palette inspired by the ocean," says Duffek. Coastal homes often feature white walls, natural textures and materials, large windows, and an abundance of natural light, blending classic elements for an enduring design style.
07 of 07## Arts and Crafts
The arts and crafts movement began in Victorian England, flourishing as a reaction to the emergence of industrialization. In the U.S., it is perhaps best known for the designs of Frank Lloyd Wright. Characterized by open floor plans, organic materials, and a seamless flow between indoors and outdoors, "arts and crafts designs revolutionized design," says Rivera.
Arts and crafts homes feature wide horizontal lines, pieces emphasizing craftsmanship and functionality, and an eclectic blend of art, textiles, and architecture. More than a century later, the arts and crafts style continues to captivate design enthusiasts.
In discussing enduring design styles, interior designer Cheryl Clendenon highlighted the versatility of modern minimalism, noting its ability to complement various aesthetics and adapt to changing trends, thanks to its uncluttered spaces, open floor plans, and an abundance of natural light. On another note, when discussing Scandinavian style, Martha Stewart's contemporary design authority member, Deana Duffek, pointed out its timeless quality, which balances practicality with nature and beauty, producing visually appealing and comfortable spaces.
