Designers Say These 11 Decorating Choices Will Never Go Out of Style

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

If you’re someone who is constantly swapping out the pillows on your living room couch, repainting your guest bathroom, and restyling your coffee tables, you know that home decor trends come and go. But whether your tastes at the moment run toward whimsigoth or cottagecore, there are probably a few choices you come back to again and again, elements so classic that you might even declare you'll stick with them forever.

These elements probably have a few things in common: They're flexible (they can work with lots of different styles and pieces); aesthetically pleasing (sure, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but most of us know it when we see it); and they work (things that are overly fussy, complicated, or difficult to maintain don't usually stand the test of time).

For examples, neutral colors are so adaptable that they can be considered a timeless design choice. “Whether your style leans more modern, traditional, or somewhere in between, a neutral paint or upholstery can blend seamlessly into any aesthetic,” says Abby Pendergrast, an interior stylist and set designer. “People love them because they give a lot of flexibility. You can update the room with new decor or accessories, and these classic choices will still work as the perfect backdrop.”

There’s also a practical side to certain design choices that will always be in style. Think: Wood floors, built-in storage, or even the use of natural light. These don’t just look good—they also serve a purpose. “They make your home more livable and functional, which is something people aren’t willing to give up, no matter what the latest trend is,” Pendergrast says. “Ultimately, timeless design is all about creating spaces that are beautiful, functional, and meaningful. That’s why people are drawn to these classics—they make a house feel like a home, and that never goes out of style.”

From leather armchairs to gilded mirrors, ahead, interior designers share 10 decorating choices that will never go out of style.

Like any classic choice, bookshelves will grow with you as your sensibility evolves and changes. They can be endlessly re-styled and adjusted to hold whatever pieces you acquire along the way. Plus, they are a kind of diary of the books you are reading and the conversations you are having.

“Literature never goes out of style. A home without books isn’t a home in my opinion. And a bookshelf acts as a blank canvas to explore your innate curatorial abilities,” says Alex Bass, founder and CEO of Art Advisory & Interior Design Studio Salon 21. “ It is also something that grows with you and that you can constantly reorganize. So investing in a good one with timeless appeal is key.”

High quality natural materials such as wood or stone just get better with time. “Using natural materials in your home is always a good idea,” says Pendergast. “They bring warmth, texture, and that feeling of authenticity we all crave.”

Wood, whether it’s flooring, furniture, or even ceiling beams, adds a cozy, lived-in vibe while stone is durable and elegant. “Wood and stone age gracefully, developing character as the years go by. They’re versatile enough to fit into any style, from modern to rustic, which means you won’t have to worry about them ever going out of fashion,” she says.

While we're on the topic of natural materials, let's not forget this inimitable combination. Marble and wood both have a knack for adding character and aging beautifully, and they're not just for kitchens. Think: Wooden chairs pulled up to a marble-topped dining table or a wood coffee table or console with a marble top. The combination is “both timeless, modern, and neutral while bringing a luxurious feel to your space,” says Bass.

Leather furniture carries memories—as a piece ages, its patina changes. And a leather chair can hold its own—the material has weight and personality that makes an excellent companion to a wide range of nearby colors, fabrics, and patterns. “It fits any type of design aesthetic, whether you’re going for something more mid century or more traditional,” Bass says. “I love seeing the wear in a piece, the cracks and the wrinkles.”

Sticking with paint colors inspired by nature—such as soft blues, calming greens, whites, and warm tans—help create a peaceful and balanced space. “These colors are easy on the eyes and make your home feel more like a retreat,” Pendergrast says. “Earthy, natural shades are always in style because they have this effortless way of grounding a space. They act like neutrals, so you can easily switch up your decor over the years without having to repaint the whole place.”

A wooden table such as an antique farm table is a timeless piece worth investing in. Whether it’s a coffee table, side table, or made for a dining room, “You’ll always find use for it and it’s something sturdy that will never go out of style,” Bass says.

A gilded mirror adds a touch of elegance and luxury to any space you put it in. They’re versatile pieces that can complement both classic and modern decor. “It easily enhances the ambiance of any room, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere,” Bass says. “The ornate detailing often found in gilded mirrors reflects craftsmanship and artistry, giving it a unique character that stands out in any space.”

More broadly, mirrors are functional as well as decorative, and they help brighten a room by reflecting light and helping t0 create the illusion of more space. “This blend of beauty and practicality ensures that gilded mirrors remain a beloved choice across different design trends and eras,” says Bass.

Stripes are a classic pattern that don’t ever feel too trendy. “You can throw them on curtains, rugs, or even wallpaper, and they’ll add a bit of structure without overpowering the room,” Pendergrast says. “Whether you go bold or keep it subtle, stripes always find a way to fit in.”

The best part about stripes is how flexible they are. “They work with just about any style, and because they’re so simple, they won’t clash out with other patterns or elements in your space,” she adds.

This one might fall into the category of "so obvious it's almost not worth mentioning." But then again, sometimes we need a reminder that the fundamentals can make or break a room. “It's hard to beat the look and feel of sunlight streaming into a room,” says Pendergrast. (And as anyone who's lived in a dark space knows, letting in as much natural light as possible is a game changer.) “It makes any space feel bigger, brighter, and more welcoming,” Pendergrast says. “Plus, it’s a free way to make everything in your home–from your furniture to your plants—look better.”

Built-in details such as crown molding or wainscoting givs your space instant character. Your home may already have these features, but if they don’t, they are often simple additions you can implement. “These features add a little polish without feeling too stuffy, and they make the room feel more custom and unique,” Pendergrast says. “Crown molding and wainscoting have been around for ages, and they’re not going anywhere.”

These architectural details are subtle ways to add depth and elegance to a room. Even better is they have the ability to blend with any style, whether your vibe is traditional or modern.

It's simple and classic—yet never feels stuck in the past. “I would always say that a black and white checkered painted floor is super timeless and also contemporary,” says Bass.

Follow House Beautiful on Instagram.

You Might Also Like

15 Home Bar Gifts Every Cocktail Enthusiast Will Appreciate

32 Low Light Indoor Plants That Can Survive in the Darkest Corners of Your Home

These Are the 50 Best Paint Colors for Your Living Room