The Art of Design
Cedar House’s Designers Julie and Erika Share Their Top Timeless Design Tips
Creating Vibrant, Livable Family Spaces
Scrolling through Pinterest or Instagram, it’s easy to become totally overwhelmed by the tidal wave of home decor trends. One minute it’s all about boho chic, the next it’s minimalist Scandi vibes. Some posts are all about earth tones, while others celebrate bright colors. You might find yourself thinking, how on earth am I supposed to create a home that feels fresh and stylish—not just for a season, but year after year?
As seasoned Rhode Island interior designers, we’ve seen it all. We’ve even tried it all. And we feel your pain. There is a lot of noise out there and it’s definitely hard to find what will work for you and for your home. So we’ve decided to throw you a bone and share our top tips for creating a home that’s not just “in” now, but forever. We promise that timeless design is possible, and we’re going to show you how.
Before we dive in, close your eyes for a moment and imagine a home you’ve entered that truly made an impression. Maybe it was your grandmother’s, with classic touches that made it both pulled together and memorable. Or a friend’s, whose home had that perfect mix of sophisticated yet lived-in. What were the things that made those homes stand out? We’d be willing to bet that they incorporated a number of the elements we’re about to explore.
Incorporate Natural Materials Like Wood, Stone, And Leather Into Your Interior Design
When you choose high-quality pieces made from wood, stone, or leather, your home will continue to radiate classic charm and understated elegance, year after year.
Picture this: that gorgeous wooden coffee table you’ve been eyeing? It’s not just a table. It’s a piece of heirloom furniture, lovingly crafted by conscious manufacturers who prioritize sustainability and eco-friendliness. It’s a testament to your commitment to the environment and a nod to your impeccable taste in decor. The benefit of natural wood furnishings is that they can be refinished or appreciated for their aging patina.
Using stone in your home is a great way to elevate its design. We’d argue that natural materials like quartzite and marble add character and depth to a room, and play beautifully with wood tones and color. Quartz has been the “go to” for a while now, and while there is still space for it in design, we prefer natural stone and use it frequently in our own homes as well as those of our clients.
Leather or vegan leather can add a sophisticated elegance to a home. While we do not encourage the use of leather in every piece, a classic leather armchair or leather-topped table brings a feeling of warmth and depth to the room. And as an added bonus, leather is strong and durable and stands up to wear and tear.
No matter which of these materials you choose, you are sure to appreciate the beauty they infuse in your space for years to come. Natural materials bring a sense of timelessness to any room and show an appreciation for quality craftsmanship. You can create spaces that will last a lifetime with natural materials that demonstrate attention to detail and nod to your impeccable taste in decor.
Use Classic Shapes And Silhouettes In Furniture Pieces, Such As Chairs And Sofas
Over the last few years, we’ve noticed a resurgence of classic shapes and silhouettes in furniture pieces. Think wingback chairs, Chesterfield sofas, Windsor chairs, and leather club chairs. These aren’t just any old pieces; they’re the kind of furniture that has stood the test of time and continues to be loved by designers and homeowners alike. We must admit: we’re glad to see these styles become popular again.
Furniture pieces like these are classics for a reason. Aside from our completely unbiased opinion that they are the epitome of sophistication, elegance, and refinement, they are crafted with the highest quality materials and with impeccable attention to detail. And for the most part, they were originally designed for comfort, which may be a welcome change for some! In addition to that, classic furniture also holds its value incredibly well, making it a smart investment for your home.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional decor or lean more towards modern aesthetics, adding these classic pieces to your space can instantly elevate its overall look and feel. So why not mix it up a bit? Add a Chesterfield sofa to your modern living room or a Windsor chair to your contemporary dining space. The result? A home that’s as unique as you are, with a timeless appeal that never goes out of style.
Choose Colors That Are Timeless And Won't Overpower Your Space
Selecting paint colors can often be an overwhelming task. You set out to find a gentle white shade, only to end up with an abundance of 52 paint swatches. We’ve all been there, haven’t we? But fear not, for we have a simple suggestion: embrace the soothing allure of earthy neutrals. And by “neutral,” we don’t simply mean plain white or gray. Instead, envision gray blues that evoke a sense of tranquility, the grounding effect of soft earthy greens, and the comforting embrace of warm creamy whites and beiges.
Neutral colors are not just safe; they’re downright magical. They’re like the fairy godmothers of interior design, transforming any space into a serene, calming haven. At Cedar House, our little secret is that we like to add a richer shade to the trim. For example, for a recent client we painted both the wall and ceiling in Benjamin Moore White Dove OC-17, and painted the trim a richer creamy tone, Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee OC-45. Using chameleon color like Sherwin Williams Acacia Haze (9132) on the trim or cabinetry can also be a fresh approach.
We promise that neutral hues won’t overpower your space. Instead, they act as a beautiful canvas for your furniture and decor. They’re the silent supporters, letting your favorite pieces shine. And the best part? They play well with others! You can pair them with any accent color or pattern, giving you endless decor possibilities.
Opt For Statement Lighting Fixtures To Set The Tone Of The Room
Lighting is not just about illumination, it’s about expressing your unique style and creating the perfect ambiance for any space. Whether it’s a grand chandelier, a striking pendant, or elegant library sconces, there’s a lighting fixture that perfectly captures your personal style and adds a touch of sophistication to your surroundings. Choose a piece that truly reflects your taste and transforms your space into a reflection of your individuality.
We highly recommend a layered lighting approach. For instance, pendants over the island as well as task lighting, sconces, and flush mounts for other functional areas of the kitchen. To create the desired ambiance and accommodate different times of the day and space utilization, it’s advisable to have all lighting on dimmers. This same formula can be applied to all the rooms in your home.
Incorporate Vintage Finds Or Antique Pieces In The Decor To Add Character And Charm
Every antique mirror, every vintage chair, every old-world object has a story to tell. These pieces carry a legacy, a glimpse into the past, adding charm and character to your space that modern pieces just can’t replicate. Plus, their patina, shape, or color add visual interest to a room.
But it’s not just about aesthetics. By incorporating these vintage finds into your decor, you’re making a powerful personal statement. You’re showcasing your unique style and telling your own story—a story about what you found in your travels, what you are drawn to, and even what you stand for. your love for things that have stood the test of time. Nothing adds character to a room like a well-curated collection of vintage pieces.
Creating a luxurious and timeless home calls for dedication and patience, resisting fleeting trends and steering clear of disposable furniture. Embrace our expert tips to craft a home that exudes comfort and pride, a haven that’s truly yours to cherish year after year.
