Classic or Trendy?
Tips to sort through what furniture designer finds are worth investing in, and what you might want to just pass on…
Finding the classic in trendy items can be difficult sometimes when we are constantly seeing a whole smorgasbord of trends hitting the interior design market. But, hopefully with these tips you can sift through to be able to see what items are worth purchasing and which ones you might want to pass on.
Look Alike vs. Vintage
Real or fake? Say for instance, you are looking at a trendy rug and it looks like a beautiful Turkish design… but it’s not real, it is just printed on, then know what you are getting yourself into. It is not going to be the timeless rug that you might be going for. Do I personally have a printed-on rug in my bedroom? Yes, yes, I do. Did I accept the fact that I would need a 12-foot rug and did not want to pay thousands for it… also, yes. I think you should pick your battles and be real about your budget. Etsy has some great truly affordable vintage rugs. Incorporating smaller ones here & there throughout the house adds a more timeless look that will also still be on trend.
Right Photo By: Jess Isaac, Design By: Amber Interiors2. Organic vs. Structured Traditional Shapes
If you have not heard of Japandi, I highly recommend looking at this beautiful design style for a modern timeless design inspiration mixing Japanese traditional style with modern Scandinavian design. I think it is important to go into designing your house knowing what styles you lean towards. Do you love a more tailored structured look or do you like incorporating more organic shapes?
I personally lean more towards organic shapes, but I am keen on finding the beauty in every design style preference. The organic shapes translate more into trendy vases and mirrors you have seen in the market lately. This is something that can be done in a timeless way or if you’re not careful it can look like a cheap trendy item if you do not examine your pieces very well.
Everything in moderation is key and if you look for the pieces that are slightly misshapen vs the items that are drastically misshapen, then in turn you have a more hand-crafted look vs a piece that is trying to be something it is not.
If you prefer a tailored look with more traditional shapes, look at classic furniture pieces that you have seen growing up or in history books/movies. Decide what elements you do or don’t like about the piece. If you can piece together similarities of the elements that make up the furniture you might be able to narrow down your search for the right credenza for example.
Design By: Tiffany Leigh
3. The “Quiet Luxury” Designer Trend
Quiet Luxury is the understanding that you can take timeless investment pieces and build your home around them. If any trend seems more timeless to me, it would be this one. Fashion & Interior Design are currently intersecting in 2024, which is something that tends to ebb and flow through the years. If there is any tip I have, it would be finding investment pieces that feel attainable within your budget. Track items you love and see if their website puts them on sale. Alternatively sourcing furniture from local thrift, antique shops as well as FB marketplace is a great way to find those statement classic items.
It is okay that the dining chair your sourced has some scratches and knicks. Find the beauty in the imperfection of the solid wood pieces that you have sourced vs. overpaying for a cheap replica of the design on a fast furniture site. It is extremely important to look at what the materials are made of to see if the quality matches your price tag. Spend your money on the big items like your sofa, coffee table, dining table and chairs. These are items being used every day and also by your guests. Don’t forget to splurge a little in your bedroom for a nice bedframe or nightstands for example. You will after all spend half your life sleeping in your bedroom.
