Creating a home that stays elegant over the years is an art — and according to experts, it goes far beyond following passing trends.
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According to House Beautiful, which gathered five major names in design for a special panel during High Point Market, the key is to invest in timeless pieces, quality finishes, and smart choices that don’t require constant renovations.
The magazine’s editorial director, Joanna Saltz, spoke with designers Anna Bond, Amber Lewis, Julia Marcum, Jean Stoffer, and Leanne Ford about what truly keeps a home beautiful, functional, and current even after five years — or more.
The foundation should be timeless — the personality comes in the details
According to House Beautiful, the consensus among professionals is clear: creating a classic foundation is the safest way to prevent a home from looking visually dated. Elements that require renovation, such as finishes, cabinetry, and large structures, should favor simple and timeless lines.
As Leanne Ford explains, “keeping the foundation timeless and classic” creates space to be bold in the right places: loose furniture, artwork, books, and decorative objects. This makes it possible to update the space without major interventions — and without spending much.
Classic cabinets are a guaranteed investment
For Jean Stoffer, one of the great secrets of design that stands the test of time lies in the cabinetry. According to her, investing in a classic style — something that could have existed 20, 50, or 80 years ago — prevents the risk of falling into trends that age quickly.
This view is reinforced by the other designers, who highlight that permanent elements should connect with the past, never with the hype of the moment.
The golden rule: if you loved it before, you’ll love it later
According to the panel organized by House Beautiful, observing your own relationship with pieces and styles is an excellent indicator. Amber Lewis sums it up perfectly: “If I loved something five years ago, I’ll still love it in the future.”
Neutral pieces, natural materials, and colors that don’t scream “trend” are the best allies for anyone who wants a lasting, beautiful, and flexible home.
Ford reinforces: “If something has existed for 40 or 100 years and is still beautiful, it will certainly continue to be 5 or 10 years from now.”
Where to invest — and where to save
According to Julia Marcum, it’s worth directing the budget toward everything you use or touch daily: handles, faucets, doors, upholstery, surfaces, and items that experience constant wear.
Elements that don’t require extreme durability — decorative objects or items that can be easily replaced — can be chosen more freely and economically.
Your personal style is stronger than any trend
For designer Anna Bond, the most important thing is that spaces reflect personality and authenticity. She celebrates the current shift toward more personal, less “staged” spaces — something she says is the true secret behind design that doesn’t age.
House Beautiful highlights that building a visual identity consistent with who you are is what keeps a home beautiful not just for five years, but for decades.
Source: House Beautiful
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
