Timeless Design is More Than Neutrals
Timeless design isn’t just about decorating with neutrals. It’s about creating styled and colourful interiors that coordinate seamlessly with your existing finishes. As the design maven behind the revolutionary Killam Colour System™ and the innovative Understanding Undertones® Neutral Colour Wheel, I’m here to share my best tips for crafting a timeless home you’ll love forever.
You see, timeless design isn’t about sticking to stuffy classicism or playing it safe with beige. For me, it’s quite the opposite. Timeless design is all about embracing vibrant, lively colour. Don’t get me wrong, I’m the queen of neutrals – I’ve built my entire brand on helping folks navigate the murky waters of undertones. But when a client asks for colour, my heart sings!
While you’ll find more neutral exteriors than colourful ones on my blog, that’s only because navigating finicky, less-than-versatile neutrals is where most people need the most help. But at my core, I’m a colour enthusiast. I love creating styled, saturated spaces that ooze personality.
The key is understanding how to make those bold hues work in harmony with your home’s existing finishes. Because as much as I adore vibrant colour, I’m also a firm believer in timeless design – creating spaces that stand the test of time, not just the trends of the moment.
The Timeless Trifecta: Wood, White, and Creamy Neutrals
When it comes to timeless finishes, there’s a trifecta that reigns supreme: wood, white, and creamy neutrals. Let’s start with the floors, shall we?
Whether you opt for pale, natural wood floors or a richer medium brown stain, natural wood is about as timeless as it gets. In fact, the stunning pale wood floors at the Metropolitan Museum of New York are the epitome of enduring style. These floors go with absolutely everything, forever. And the best part? You don’t even have to stress about the undertones – wood is inherently brown, gold, or even a touch of pink beige. As long as you steer clear of trendy grey stains, you’re golden.
Now, if you’re after a more substantial look, medium brown floors are just as versatile and timeless. Think of them as the denim jeans of the design world – they pair seamlessly with any aesthetic, from farmhouse to modern. Plus, they offer a rich, grounded contrast to crisp white walls and creamy neutrals.
Speaking of which, those light, airy neutral shades are the perfect canvas for your timeless design. Whether you opt for a barely-there greige or a complex, multi-dimensional cream, these soft, harmonious hues create a fresh, versatile backdrop that allows your personality to shine through.
And let’s not forget about the enduring power of pure white. Whether it’s on your trim, walls, or cabinetry, this classic non-colour is the ultimate blank slate. It allows you to play with bold pops of colour through your decor, no problem. Plus, it has a way of making a space feel elevated, refined, and – you guessed it – timeless.
Kitchens and Baths: The Importance of Simplicity
When it comes to those rooms that require permanently installed finishes, like kitchens and bathrooms, simplicity is key. After all, these are the areas that set the tone for your whole home – you want them to be as fresh and versatile as possible.
That’s why I always recommend a mostly white or cream palette for these high-impact spaces. I know what you’re thinking – “But Maria, isn’t that boring?” Well, let me ask you this: what’s more boring? A white bathroom that can be easily refreshed with a coat of paint and some new accessories? Or being stuck with grey tile that’s already out of style, just because you thought it would be more “exciting”?
The same goes for kitchens. A timeless white or cream kitchen, accented with classic soapstone or black quartz countertops, is like the little black dress of design. It’s the kind of look that you simply can’t pinpoint the era it was installed. It’s just… timeless.
And don’t forget about the power of tile. Subway tile, in a crisp white or creamy hue, is the ultimate timeless backsplash. It allows you to easily change up your decor without being bossed around by busy, trendy tile patterns. Plus, it pairs beautifully with those versatile, always-in-style countertop options.
Decorating for Lasting Impact
Now that we’ve got the permanent, high-impact finishes covered, let’s talk about the fun stuff – decorating! This is where you can really let your personality shine and indulge in the latest trends, without breaking the bank.
Paint, textiles, and accessories are the perfect canvas for experimenting with bold, vibrant colours and patterns. Want to try out that moody black wall everyone’s raving about? Go for it! Fell head over heels for the Pantone Colour of the Year? Bring it on through your throw pillows and artwork.
After all, these are the elements that are easy to swap out when you inevitably change your mind or they start to show their age. And that’s the beauty of timeless design – you can have fun with the ever-evolving trends, while keeping your bones neutral and versatile.
Of course, if you’re not the type to repaint your walls on a whim, you can still achieve a timeless look with your wall colour. Just opt for a barely-there neutral, like a soft greige or a complex cream. These hues create a beautiful, harmonious backdrop without being too stark or overpowering.
And don’t forget to infuse your space with pops of vibrant, saturated colour through your decor! This is where the real personality and character comes to life in a timeless home. Whether you gravitate towards jewel-toned accents or muted, moody palettes, the key is ensuring your colours work in harmony – no clashing clean and dirty hues allowed.
A Timeless Refresh for My Own Home
Speaking of vibrant colour, let’s talk about my own living room. I’ve been rocking a cheerful yellow, raspberry, and green scheme for nearly a decade, and I have to admit – it’s time for a change. But the beauty of timeless design is that I have a versatile foundation to work with, thanks to those pale maple floors, white kitchen, and crisp bathrooms.
Now, I’m swimming in possibilities as I contemplate the next chapter for this space. Should I embrace a rich, moody blue? Play up the green tones from my existing lamp? Or maybe incorporate a touch of that trending Chinese Porcelain colour?
The options are endless, and I can’t wait to see what unfolds. After all, the beauty of timeless design is that it gives you the freedom to evolve and refresh your space, without the burden of constant, costly renovations. It’s an oasis of design sanity in a world that too often prioritizes trends over timelessness.
So, what do you think? Where should I take my living room makeover? I’m all ears – let’s dream up a space that’s equal parts vibrant, personality-packed, and built to last. Because at the end of the day, that’s what timeless design is all about.
