Should I use trends to design my home?
In a world where many of us are trying to fit in, it can be tempting to keep up with what designs are currently trending. As much as you may like this now, I could hazard a guess that once it becomes outdated, you’ll want to dig into your purse strings to update your home. The whole reason you’re here is because your home hasn’t evolved with you, it’s currently feeling unaligned with who you and your family are and it’s feeling more like a nuisance than anything else. That’s probably because it wasn’t built with your family and lifestyle in mind. In this blog, I discuss why I do not design with trends in mind and instead share my tips for keeping your home aging better than a good wine.
Do not reinvent the wheel…too much
There's something to say for a home that looks as close as possible to its original state. Some may say, “It has charm,” others may say, “It has character,” and they aren’t wrong. When you have a house that wasn’t born in what I like to call the volume-build era, you have a home worth keeping if its foundations are as strong as its personality! However, it is a common fact that the majority of these older homes are not conducive to everyday productivity as we know it. They are closed off, their rooms are in very separate zones, the most sun that comes in is through the sunroom, the rest of the home can feel dark, and the kitchen and living area are not open and inviting. The master plan needs some work to create a better flow for the home and bring it into this century without tampering with its authentic style. Do this by paying homage to its current style, whether that is keeping the beautiful stained glass in, keeping the fireplaces or rediscovering them behind the boards; leaning into the quirks with a new layout is what will keep your house feeling like home for years to come.
Steer away from colours that won’t age well
Remember in 2010 when cherry red came into fashion and many of your friends would paint that one feature wall in a bold colour; red leather couches, red kettles, and red bar stools became thoroughly in trend. And where did that get us? Fast forward to today, and playing with neutrals is now the “safe” way to go, the red furniture is long gone, and many of those people have put more money into their homes than what it may be worth as they kept jumping on the trend train. This is one of the reasons why we do not design with trends in mind. It’s not sustainable and for my clients creating a cohesive home design that doesn’t pander to trends is my best advice. Many of our clients intend to stay in their home for a long time so we make sure their house is designed for flexibility. People’s needs change over time and a well-designed home should be able to adapt to these changes without needing to go through multiple renovations. By all means, add colour to your home, I do not subscribe to the basic white wall mentality, however, there are other ways to bring warmth and personality to your home without adding more layers of paint to your walls. By focusing on beautiful views and connection to the outside, a north orientation for sunlight, natural ventilation, and sustainable materials like wood, you can create a thoughtful, timeless home.
Invest in quality craftsmanship
You may not realise it instantaneously but when you walk into a home that was architect designed and built by a quality builder, it will feel a lot different than a cookie-cutter home that uses the cheapest materials. There is something to be said for quality work. Only a keen eye can really spot it, but when done well you shouldn’t be able to see it, just feel it. Another reason why we encourage our clients to work with quality materials and artisan vendors is because of the education and time they have invested in their craft. With their expertise, your house will be able to tell a story. With a practical lens on, it won’t only look beautiful it will also wear well over time.
The evolution of your family
When you design with longevity in mind, you’re creating a space that evolves with you, rather than against you. This means incorporating flexible layouts that can adapt as your needs change, whether it’s a growing family, new hobbies, or a shift in lifestyle. Consider the flow of your home—how you move through it and how you use each space. By prioritising comfort and functionality, ensuring that each room serves its purpose while still reflecting your personal style. As we touched on previously, remember that your home should tell your story. Fill it with pieces that have meaning to you—whether it’s artwork that speaks to your soul, furniture that carries memories, or even a colour palette that brings you joy. These personal touches will make your home uniquely yours, ensuring that it remains a true reflection of who you are for years to come.
In the end, the goal is to create a home that not only looks good but feels good—a space that brings you peace, comfort, and happiness every time you walk through the door. After all, your home is more than just a place to live; it’s a sanctuary where you can truly be yourself. So, design with intention, and let your home evolve naturally with you, making it a place you’ll love for a lifetime.
Ready to turn your house into a home that you will hold onto for years to come?