6 design trends that will stand the test of time

Ready to redesign your home but you’re stuck for style inspo? You can’t go wrong with these tried and tested classics.

1. Neutral colour palettes

Neutral colours such as white, beige, grey, and taupe help create a calm and versatile backdrop that complements a wide range of decor styles. These can be easily updated with accessories and accent colours, making them the perfect canvas for those who like to change things up frequently.

Add extra visual interest by incorporating timeless patterns such as stripes, checks, and herringbone with your textiles, wallpapers, and flooring.

2. Natural materials

Including natural materials such as timber, stone, and metal brings warmth and texture to a space. These materials age gracefully and add a sense of connection to the natural environment – especially popular in Australian home design. They also integrate well with neutral colours, or a coastal or Aussie country aesthetic.

Likewise, incorporating plants and greenery into interior design adds life, colour, and freshness to your space.

3. Minimalism

Minimalist design has been a popular interior design style for a while. It focuses on clean lines and open spaces, creating a calming vibe. The core principles of this “less is more” style are simplicity, functionality, and uncluttered spaces.

Maximise your minimalist look by integrating clever storage solutions. A cabinet maker can provide advice for making the best use of the space and build customised solutions that perfectly fit your space. Ask for sleek, minimalist options which can do double-duty, for example, a breakfast nook or window seat with built-in storage, and plump for handle-free, soft close cabinetry.

4. Open plan living

Open-plan layouts that integrate living, dining, and kitchen areas are popular for their feeling of spaciousness and enhanced natural light flow, as are design elements like bi-fold doors which bring the outdoors in and create extra living space.

An open layout is a versatile style that can adapt to changing needs and preferences, ideal for both family life and entertaining guests.

Got an older home, or one with a ‘closed-in’ feel? Fear not, with the help of a skilled tradie, you can integrate open living into your home. As a bonus, the investment could add some extra value – Domain recently reported that open-plan living is in the top 1 percent of search terms used when looking for a new home.

5. Coastal style

Australia’s vast coastline continues to impact our taste; and coastal style remains a popular design choice – even in homes far from the beach.

Coastal style is distinguished by a light, airy atmosphere, a gentle colour palette of blues and whites, and the use of natural materials such as wood, rattan, and linen which all come together to create a comfortable, breezy environment that reflects the tranquillity of beach life.

6. Australian country style

Much as it sounds, Australian country style is all about creating a warm and rustic look, influenced by Australia’s rural landscape.

Get the look with farmhouse-style furnishings, and vintage accents. Distressed wood, wrought iron, and stone are popular materials, and checks and floral patterns add to the appeal.Top tips for using colour to create a cohesive country look?

• Start with a neutral base to reflect the simplicity and authenticity of the Australian countryside. Shades of white, beige, and soft greys are perfect for walls, ceilings, and larger pieces of furniture.
• Integrate earthy tones such as terracotta, ochre, and burnt sienna in accent walls, textiles like cushions and throws, or decorative items like pottery and rugs.
• Incorporate shades of green to mirror the Australian landscape. Sage, olive, and eucalyptus green can be used in upholstery, curtains, or as accent colours. Indoor plants also add a fresh, natural touch.
• Reflect the coastal regions with blues that range from deep navy to soft turquoise. These can also be used in accessories like vases, artwork, or bed linens.
• Complement your colour scheme with natural materials like timber, stone, and leather.

Timeless Design

Good design focuses on functionality, so make sure your design choices don’t just look great but are also practical and functional for everyday living.

Comfort is key to creating an inviting and livable space. Choose furniture and materials that are not only beautiful but are comfortable to use and easy to maintain.

Timeless design also embraces versatility. Invest in quality key pieces that are classic in style and update the look of your home by changing the less expensive decorative furnishings and paintwork.