Hot Take On Trendy vs. Timeless
This might be one of our favourite hot button topics in design. Often, ‘trendy’ is seen as a dirty word to designers, whereas ‘timeless’ always seems to be the golden standard. Ever wonder why that is? We thought it was about time we share our perspective on it and how we deal with trendy vs. timeless designs in our studio!
First, let’s pause and define what each term really means when it comes to design:
Trendy designs typically have a faster phase-out than those considered timeless
Timeless designs typically appeal to the masses and have longer life cycles as popular styles
Just like in fashion, interior design follows trend cycles. New ideas emerge, old ones are reimagined and become popular again and some styles just stick around. Mid Century Modern (MCM) is a great example of a design style that remains popular. Over the last few years we’ve seen a ton of modern farmhouse designs - thanks for that Joanna Gaines - that are currently fading out in popularity. A few trends that we see going on this year relate to texture and patterns. Ribbed or slat details seem to be all the rage and so is bold veining in countertops (just as a few examples). We saw the rise of a style called Japandi in 2021/2022 that is a fusion between Japanese and Scandinavian styles. Anyway, the point is styles in design come and go.
As designers, our end goal for every project we work on is to create something with our clients that we are all proud of. Our goal isn’t to create something that is on trend or timeless enough to stand the test of time. We want to create something that is unique to the people and spaces we are working with! Style is a very personal thing. Our stance is, if you like it, you should do it. Who cares if it’s considered trendy or timeless? Let’s compare it to fashion - do you have the same style as your parents? What about all your friends? Likely not. The space you create should be as different as your own style. Unless you are flipping houses or a developer looking to appeal to the masses, design should be unique to you. We promise that the next person that lives in your space will change it - doesn’t matter how timeless or trendy the design is.
We approach our designs with a bit of a flexible mindset, which is why we end up with diverse projects in our portfolio. We never discourage clients from making bold choices if it’s something they love! On the other hand, if they are more comfortable with neutrals, we find ways to adapt the design. Our version of timeless translates as neutral tones and textures that can be brought “up to date” with changes in accents and accessories. Most of our work pulls elements from different styles and blends them to create the unique space. For example, MCM tones can be mixed with more modern lines and Scandinavian textures! Layering texture and patterns is what we love to do! Many people have decor or furniture they want to keep, so being able to hybrid is important to make sure the end design is cohesive.
At one point in time, MCM was trendy and now it’s an iconic design style. What is in now may be out in 5 years, but chances are in another 10 years it’ll be back in some way! We think you shouldn’t be concerned about chasing a trend or making sure your space is timeless. Everyone has their own style and you should just do you! There is something special about walking into someones home and knowing right away whose home you are in because it’s a reflection of who they are.