At Outline interiors, we describe our aesthetic as modern comfortable. We strive to include timeless and trendy elements in each interior to create longevity for the space. But each of these terms can have positive and negative connotations. When you think of timeless, it means something that will transcend changing design style and time periods. But could this also means stuffy or dated? And when you think of trendy, you probably think of something that’s really current and in the moment. But is this going to be fleeting and is it going to be something that you get sick of right away?
In my experience, the best way to successfully integrate timeless and trendy design elements in one space is to be thoughtful with how you use them. We typically recommend veering toward a timeless aesthetic for the larger pieces or maybe even the shell of space – things that are maybe a bigger investment or harder to change overtime. Sprinkling in trendy elements can actually be really effective and also give you the flexibility to revise them overtime. This might be artwork, throw pillows, blankets, accessories, or even smaller furniture pieces like lamps or side table.
This isn’t rocket science, nor is it groundbreaking design advice – but it’s very easy to get caught up in gravitating toward everything that’s super trendy, or maybe playing it too-safe by staying in the timeless-only lane. Let us help be your sanity check! Below are some examples of how we have crafted a timeless AND trendy mix for our clients.
There’s not a more timeless material out there than marble. We paired the marble floor with a white tile with a twist. This Ann Sacks ceramic 6”square tile features a subtle geometric hand painted pattern.
The all-white-everything Kitchen trend is over IMHO, but mixing this warm white with a cerused oak finish on the island keeps this updated, while also having a lot of staying power.
The shell of this Formal Living Room is timeless with beautiful woven wallpaper and the coffered ceiling. Pairing it with contemporary art and a more casual natural rug modernizes the space.
The St Regis Condos in Chicago are known for bringing both timeless and trendy living to downtown. The watercolor grasscloth and sheer drapery set the tone for timeless and serene vibes, while the lamps and pendant are more dynamic in a trendy black finish.
The West Loop in Chicago is known for its beautiful loft living. This updated Kitchen maintains a classic color palette but is trendy in its lighting and stools.
Black and white is a palette that is always going to be timeless AND trendy. This elegant formal living room has timeless elements in the big pieces, but we went more trendy in the more affordable wall art.
Timeless Waterworks plumbing fixtures and marble tile plays nicely with trendy mate black lighting and vanity cabinetry.
Recently my thoughts on Timeless Designs were shared in Real Simple Magazine. You can check it out HERE.
The nursery is my favorite room in our house, and it is so comforting to see the smile on my son’s face when he is in his room; I have never seen a baby be so engaged with his space.
Tile is a hot topic these days. Subway tile doesn’t necessarily reign supreme and we are seeing that clients are open to having a little more fun with these selections. I was recently featured in this article on Living Etc where
Last month, I had the pleasure of chatting with design writer Kathryn O’Shea-Evans about quick ways to upgrade your bathroom in an hour or less. You can read about my thoughts on being intentional with countertop organization and my love
