Design Trends That Never Go Out

I was recently looking at some old design magazines and it was not hard to notice how “dated” some of the looks were. I was featured in some of these issues, and it was funny to see how design ascetics have changed since I completed some of those projects.

So I started thinking, what are some design trends that, no matter what year it is, still work?

I pulled together a few trends that still continue to be used by designers today, and I expect to see for years to come. 

HOTEL RACKS ARE A MUST

I literally just told a client that we needed hotel racks in every bathroom of her condo. Space was at a premium, and nothing works better than a bathroom hotel rack holding folded towels and yet has hanging space.

I had also insisted every bathroom in the Glenerin Inn project I worked on last year have one. Affordable and attractive, it is still widely used today.

Image from West Elm.

BUILT-IN CABINETRY

Not a big surprise, but back in the early 2000’s, we did nothing but built-ins in family rooms and bedrooms.

Fast forward to today, yes we still do built-ins, they will always be the best way to utilize space especially in small spaces.

The design may have changed, we do opt for more open shelving and less “closed door” design, but nothing will give you a better return on your money. I was saying that twenty years ago.

CABINETRY THAT REACHES THE CEILING

In any kitchen renovation, we always look to see if we can bring cabinetry up to the ceiling. Sounds simple, right? But it can be a challenge if there is ductwork even running partially through the bulkhead.

A heightened cabinet gives the illusion of a higher ceiling AND allows for all those bowls and collectibles not used on a daily basis, to be housed there.

Always brilliant, always right.

LARGE COFFEE TABLES

I hesitated with this one because I love a layered 2 piece coffee table ensemble. However, a large (think 48" by 48" or bigger) table will stand you in good stead as the place where appetizers and drinks can hold court.

It is the one singular surface in a living or family room that will always be stylish because it is large enough for those said apps, but still have room for coffee table books, flowers, and candles!

PAINTED FURNITURE

I am sure you are nodding your head with this one. Yes, we did paint a lot of furniture twenty years ago, but it is still a thing.

I am reminded of my son who salvaged a cabinet from the roadside last year, painted it a warm grey, changed out the trim and hardware, and ended up with a pretty amazing piece of furniture! AND he sold it to a young couple who said they had been looking for over a year for such a piece! How great is that?

I am currently working on a darling cottage in New Brunswick, and the vibe is definitely painted furniture! What fun we are having finding old furniture pieces and creating a fun color palette around them!

So, yes, painted furniture will never be out!

WALLPAPER

Wallpaper had a bit of a death for a few years but boy, is it back and boy, is it bold!

I have always loved wallpaper and I particularly love large scaled prints with neutral backgrounds. So beautiful and yet so subtle. No need for art, wallpaper creates the perfect backdrop for glitzy hardware, high gloss cabinetry and classic design styles.

Murals and wallpaper will never, ever really be out and I am glad design today embraces pivotal style.

Image from Wallpaper Direct.