How To Pass The Timeless Test
The questions I ask when designing spaces
Edition No. 09
Most of the time, when I ask clients what type of home they want to create, they use the word “timeless”. Or they say, “I don’t want it to date.”
Me too. Given the time and financial investment that’s involved in creating our homes that’s a reasonable request. (And much better for the environment too, as we all know.)
And then I look at their inspirational images.
This is when I pause.
Often, there’s a disconnect.
And it’s an easy trap to fall into.
We have a never-ending source of inspiration at our fingertips. (And I do sometimes wonder if spaces are increasingly created for portfolios, rather than people. The envelope of what is possible is being pushed to its outer limits.)
“Oooh. I love that tile.”
“That light is so beautiful.”
“Oh, I wonder where they sourced that marble.”
And before we know it, we have a folder of images that reflect what’s happening in the design world right now.
But that’s not always the best place to start… or finish.
Where To Start
When it comes to designing a home, it’s worth taking the time to get clear on your needs before looking at any imagery.
What is this project for you? Is it a home you hope to live in forever? Or is it a stepping stone to a bigger place? Do you want to make some updates and sell in the not-too-distant future? There is no right or wrong answer. Just what’s right for you.
How do you live? Really think about this. Map out your day, and how you use your home. Consider the points of friction you currently face. Be honest with yourself. If you love to entertain, create enough space to host your family and guests. If you are disorganised, open shelving might not be the best option for you.
How do you want to feel? The answer to this question will guide many of the aesthetic choices in your space — everything from your colour palette to material selections. The more you lean into the feeling you want to create, the more you will create a home that is uniquely you, and subverts trends.
Now, it’s time to find and filter inspirational images.
The Timeless Test
Once you’re clear on what this project is for you — how you want to live, function, and feel within the space — you can now start gathering inspirational images. Use these questions to filter references with discernment.
Does the design honour the architecture of the home? Homes feel more grounded when there is alignment between what already exists and what is being added. Even modest homes often have features worth preserving. What appealed to you about your home? What it the proportions? The flow of the spaces? The original details? Embrace what’s inherently good, and enhance what remains.
Does the design connect to the surrounding landscape? Our homes feel good when there is a connection to our local landscape. Can you use windows to frame the view onto a tree? Can you plant a privacy hedge for a more appealing outlook? Can the colour palette of the surrounding landscape guide what you choose inside the home?
Does the choice support your design intent? When looking at specific references, and objects, keep returning to your design intent. Does this decision support the way you want to live and feel in the home? Or are you being pulled towards it because you’ve been exposed to it repeatedly online?
Where To Finish
As you approach the finish line, decision fatigue can set in. Save some energy for the important finishing touches. The more you include elements that reflect your eye, and your story, the more you’ll create a home that feels harmonious and complete (even if it’s still a work in progress).
A Few Thoughts on Timeless Design
Timeless homes rarely reflect what is happening in a specific moment in time. Instead, they are layered with old and new. Refined and imperfect. Structured and relaxed.
This is what I advise clients who want a timeless home, but start to veer towards a look that’s filling up their social feeds.
Mix up your materials, especially your metals for hardware to create a more irreverent look, a je ne sais quoi.
Create visual friction. If you’re using clean lines in your spaces, introduce elements (lighting, art, hardware) that are seemingly contradictory.
Steer clear of design elements that you’re seeing everywhere. If it’s reaching saturation, it’s likely to date.
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Well said and very timeless advice!