Some people are nervous about trying anything new, everything should be neutral and classic so they never have to worry about updating. Others get excited about every trend that comes along and constantly switch everything so they won't have dated decor.
So which should it be? Always the same or always changing?
The truth is, both.
While your personal style and budget should really be the deciding factor in how you decorate your home there are some basic rules that I usually try to follow.
If you are changing any fixed elements (things physically attached to your home) then I recommend keeping it classic and relatively neutral. Especially if you need to hire a professional to install it. This would include things like flooring, built in cabinetry, backsplash tile, and stone work. Most people can't afford to have those thing switched out every few years when trends starts to look dated (if you do, by all means).
It's best to keep the shell neutral so as your taste evolves you aren't struggling to match your new couch to your dated fireplace tile.
(please don't do this!)
When do you go trendy? I recommmend sticking with things that you don't mind changing as trends change. If it's in your budget and makes you happy to change your sofa every few years, go for it! If not, stick with less expensive accessories like pillows or artwork. Unless you have a very definite style of home (ex. a century home full of antiques) inserting on trend items throughout your home occasionally will help it stay fresh and current.
This bistro style kitchen has neutral fixed elements. White cabinets, subway tile, stainless appliances, and classic black and white checked floors. It feels current because of the bold stripe and burst of colour on the bench cushions. It's actually a very small area of the room but because the rest of the room is classic and neutral it's easily updated with a few on trend items.
What a beautiful home! Medium brown wood floors, white trim, classic brick fireplace surround. It will look beautiful for years to come and easily kept on trend by switching out some accessories and a few furtniture pieces. The furniture and accessories here a little traditional for your taste?
It could just as easily be this furniture (from an earlier post) and still fit. Why? Because the fixed elements are classic neutrals.
There's no need to spend thousands of dollars and inconveniencing yourself with renovations in five or ten years if you keep that in mind. If you're building or renovating right now this is some advice I really recommend.
If you would like some help choosing classic fixed elements or updating with some on trend pieces, contact me at
realinteriors@hotmail.com or call (204)747-4480!
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