How to create longevity in your interior design.

When it comes to interior design, I believe the longevity of the design is extremely important. It's easy to fall into the trap of following fads and trends, but design trends come and go and timeless designs that last years or even decades are the most satisfying designs. They can save you time and money in the long run.

To achieve longevity in your interior you should begin by focusing on quality. Invest in pieces that are well-made and built to last, whether it is a sofa, a rug, or a dining table. Though these may come with a higher price tag initially, they will pay off in the long run by outlasting cheaper, lower-quality options.

You should consider the materials you use in your design. Natural materials have a timeless quality that surpasses trends and stands the test of time. Many natural materials can also improve with age. For example, indentations and scratches in wooden flooring or tables can add character and improve its appearance with age. Choosing good quality natural materials is also a more sustainable way of designing your home. If you use good quality materials, they will last longer before needing to be replaced.

A really good way to create a timeless interior is to work with the existing property features by reusing, refurbishing or repurposing its existing features. That could include features such as coving, ceiling roses, internal doors and fireplaces for example. This should be considered before replacing these features with something new.

Another option is reusing, refurbishing or repurposing old furniture. It is a great way to design with longevity in mind. A classic piece of furniture can be given a new lease of life with a little restoration. Changing the colour of a piece of furniture or even stripping it back to its original state can bring it back to life or change its whole appearance. Don't be afraid to mix old and new. A few antique or vintage pieces can add character and personality to a modern space. Combining older pieces with contemporary ones can create a layered look that will stand the test of time.

Next, consider neutral color schemes on your walls and classic patterns. Trends come and go, but different tones of white or earthy tones will always be in style. These can serve as a base for your design and can be updated with fresh accents or accessories as the years pass. You can liven up your interior by adding bold colours, patterns and texture in soft furnishings, accessories or artwork.

I have recently discovered an amazing sustainable business called Katy Takla. The designer and maker creates incredible cushions from designer fabric remnants. Including these cushions would be a great way to add a pop of colour and interest to a timeless design.

Pictured, below is an example of Katy Tekla's beautiful work.

(Image credit- Katy Takla)

Including traditional prints in your soft furnishings such as stripes and florals will also stand the test of time too. A personal favorite of mine is Ticking stripe fabric and it has been for years. You can use it on cushions, blinds, curtains or use it to upholster your chairs, it is a classic!

Pictured, below is an example of a clever way of using the ticking stripe fabric in a modern traditional interior by Ian Mankin.

(Image credit- Ian Mankin)

Colours inspired by nature are quite timeless. So, including greens, pinks, blues, earthy tones and greys is a good way of adding a little colour to your interior.

Another thing to consider when designing your interior is thinking about functionality as much as you think about aesthetics. Including storage solutions, such as practical furniture or built-ins will not only ensure that your home looks good but also that it works for you and your lifestyle.

Kitchens and bathrooms can look outdated quite quickly. For these highly used and busy areas, stick with classic cabinetry and flooring and incorporate accessories that you can change later such as hardware, blinds and lighting.

So, to conclude, designing your interior with longevity in mind is a sensible decision that will save you money and time in the long run. Invest in high-quality, natural materials and add classic patterns and neutral colour schemes as a base for your design. Don’t be afraid to mix old and new, refurbish old furniture or repurpose existing features in your home. Think about functionality as much as aesthetics and stick with classic cabinetry and flooring. By following these tips, you will create an interior that not only looks good but also lasts for years.

Thanks for reading,

Emma