Before diving in, let’s start by touching on a common trend. White kitchens have been all the rave for quite a while. Most people see them as a passing trend and are determined to move onto the next big thing. As a designer, I feel some pressure to agree with the idea that white kitchens are out of style and start promoting the newest trend. But I think there’s a bigger picture to look at. And I can’t lie; I love a white kitchen.
In my opinion you can look at design trends from three perspectives. You can follow them and be “trendy.” You can stay true to your personal design aesthetic, paying little attention to the passing fads. And the third category which blends the two previous sides – designing to your aesthetic while being mindful of current style.
I typically encourage the third option because I believe there’s a mixture of ingredients that make up the perfect style for you:
- Your true aesthetic
- Current technology and elements
- Timelessness
Your True Aesthetic
This statement either makes complete sense to you or confuses you. If it makes perfect sense, you likely have a good understanding of what you love and what you loathe when it comes to interiors. You know your preferred color palette and your favored “style.” This may also mean that you are unphased by passing design trends because you know that a shiny new idea won’t necessarily speak to your style.
If you are unsure of your aesthetic, this can leave you more susceptible to following new trends that pop up seasonally, which can leave your home mismatched and ever changing.
In my opinion, the goal for your home is to make it your sanctuary and a place that you love to spend time. It’s important to identify your design aesthetic so you can begin decorating to that style. Your true aesthetic isn’t a passing trend that will be gone next season. It will last several years.
Current Technology And Elements
Not every new design-related thing is a trend. Sometimes, vendors come out with new technology that affects how we use products in our homes. For example, although you love the sofa you purchased 10 years ago and the style may still work for you, you might consider replacing it because fabric technology has come such a long way since then. Now you can purchase a sofa in a performance fabric that is extremely easy to clean and maintain. Another example – TVs. They used to be large, black boxes. Now you can purchase TVs that are meant to look like art when not in use and have frames that match the finishes in your room (hello, frame tv).
In addition to new technology, it’s always a good idea to be aware of new styles. You may discover beautiful new products that work well with your established aesthetic, which keeps your space feeling fresh.
Timelessness
This is the ultimate goal. A design that withstands the test of time. When you’ve identified your true aesthetic correctly, it will feel beautiful to you for years. Chasing trends will always leave you with more updates and renovations to do. Here are a couple characteristics of timeless design:
Neutral architectural elements – creating the perfect backdrop that doesn’t get old (note: neutral doesn’t always mean white or plain)
Classic lines and details – because complicated shapes may only feel special for a limited time
All of this isn’t to say that you shouldn’t be intrigued by new design trends that appear seasonally. They’re always fun to admire and discuss! Building a basis made up of your truest style is important to creating your sanctuary, but that also doesn’t mean it won’t evolve every few years. Here are a few photos that speak to my current style:
Photo sources: top left, top middle, top right, bottom left, bottom middle, bottom right
Looking for more interior design inspiration? Keep on reading:
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