Let us start off by acknowledging the obvious: we love a design trend. From paint and color to metal finishes, light fixtures, and furniture styles, pinpointing up-and-coming design looks is an admittedly fun part of our jobs.

With that said, we love a timeless interior design moment even more — almost in spite of the aforementioned trend cycle that only seems to speed up with each passing year. While you can make a few wardrobe upgrades each year to feel current (if that’s your thing), we’d argue that you shouldn’t do the same with your home. Homes, by nature, are much more enduring (not to mention expensive). Your chosen furniture, color palette, textiles, lighting should exist outside of the trend cycle, to a certain degree.

With that, we decided to do the inverse of our usual trend reporting: timeless design scouting. Ahead, check out the 12 timeless “anti-trends” that will never go out of style in our book, from color palette and upholstery to lighting, wood tones, and decor.

1. Warm wood tones

Wood, farmhouse-style dining tables were cool in the 1700s, and they’re still cool today. While specific wood tones tend to have their moment in the sun (cue the all light oak era), a warm walnut will never go out of style. Even just deep wood accent chairs or a ultra-cool TV stand lend a classic feel to any space.

2. Nature-inspired patterns

While this foliage heritage print from The Inside is particularly classic (it’s Verdure Bois De Chene by Old World Weavers), we’d contend that all nature-inspired patterns have a traditional, classic feel. From soft, whimsical florals to large-scale banana leaf wallpaper, botanical patterns will always get a yes from us.

3. Traditional mirrors

A large, brass floor mirror will always create a time-honored vignette, particularly if it’s vintage and features a beautiful gilded frame. We loved this look in 2010, we love it today, and we’ll love it tomorrow. 

4. Shaded light fixtures

From statement chandeliers to wall sconces, shaded light fixtures in general are definitely having a moment. But we’d contend that this artful ceiling jewelry falls more into the “timeless” camp than trendy. It adds a polished, traditional touch to a space that contrasts beautifully against more modern elements (like the dining chairs above). 

5. Traditional rugs

While traditional rugs are enjoying a renaissance as of late, the look is ultra classic in our book. From vintage finds sourced from Etsy to brand-new designs from the likes of Pottery Barn and CB2, these timeless textiles lend a cozy, lived-in feel to any space (especially when paired with soft floral prints, like this bed).

6. Slipcovered furniture

Slipcovered furniture boomed in the 90s and may or may not make you think of kitschy shabby-chic interiors, but hear us out. This style is practical, charming, versatile surprisingly sleek. From the above dining chairs to slipcovered bed frames, this furniture style gets a “timeless” from us.

7. Hints of blue

Honestly, the color blue is as timeless as it gets. From our 2023 Color of the Year French Blue to time-honored designer favorite Hale Navy, this is arguably the one color that doesn’t wax and wane with the trend cycle. From walls to upholstery, adding a dash of blue to any space will never go out of style.

8. A hint of animal print

We know — animal print isn’t exactly what comes to mind when you think of timeless design. While its popularity definitely waxes and wanes with time (particularly in fashion), we contend that, when peppered in subtly, it’s a designer classic. We love that it leans neutral overall, and it pairs beautifully with muted color palettes and natural accents!

9. Curio cabinets

Glass display cabinets have been around for centuries, and still use them to house treasured possessions, family china, and decorative accents to this day. Whether you opt for a class buffet in the dining room or a bookcase in your living space, the curio cabinet is endlessly versatile and ultra-timeless.

10. Art pedestals

While the overall look leans modern, pedestals represent an age-old styling trick loved by interior designers. When you’ve already added height to your space via house plants, floor lamps, art work, and the like, the humble pedestal is a great, unique option. Simply top it with a few books, a vase, and fresh branches, and enjoy your living sculpture.

11. Houseplants

Houseplants will always and forever be in style. Bring the outdoors in with a large potted tree placed in front of your largest window for a hint of beautiful green that will instantly liven up your space. We personally try to steer clear of anything overly trendy (looking at you, fiddle leaf figs and olive trees) and embracing something that cues Luxembourg gardens. 

12. Roman shades

Roman shades, particularly in organic textures like linen or wooden weaves, have long been a stylish and functional feature in any home. While we’ll always love a floor-kissing curtain moment, Roman shades are a no-frills alternative that still leans breezy and a touch undone. They’re perfect for kitchens, stairwells, bathrooms, and bedrooms! 

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