This month, the design world has been buzzing about 2025 trends, but at LWD, we’re not about chasing trends. We believe in creating spaces that stand the test of time. Here’s our guide to what will never go out of style—classic design elements that blend beauty and practicality for a home you’ll love for years to come.

Natural Materials: The Foundation of Timeless Design

When it comes to natural materials, Europe sets the gold standard, especially with marble. Whether used for countertops, floors, or statement pieces, marble’s elegance never fades. Pair it with rich, medium-tone woods for a look that’s warm and enduring. Medium wood tones are particularly versatile—they don’t fall prey to fleeting trends like ultra-light or overly dark finishes often do.

*Carrara Marble Countertops — Fountain Hills Primary Bathroom*

*Medium Tone Wood Floors — 51st Reno Kitchen*

Millwork + Architectural Details

Details matter, especially when it comes to ceilings. Beams or coffered ceilings can add character and depth to a room, making it feel like a thoughtfully designed space rather than an afterthought. Millwork and trim also give architectural interest, giving it a polished and classic feel. In the 51st Reno dining room, we chose a coffered ceiling, and it adds so much luxury to this space. And guess how long ago we designed this space? It was 2018—seven years ago!

My Favorite Classic Finishes

When it comes to the most timeless fixtures, polished nickel and unlacquered brass stand above the rest. If you’re selecting hardware or fixtures, polished nickel is the way to go—it’s a tried and true favorite here. Its warm undertones make it incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with brass or black while still standing strong on its own. Unlike trend-driven finishes, polished nickel has a lasting elegance that works seamlessly in any style of home.

*Polished Nickel — Fountain Hills Kitchen*

*Unlacquered Brass — Westergard Kitchen*

Functional Design: Beautiful + Practical

Your home should work for your family, not the other way around. Functional design means prioritizing storage solutions and creating spaces tailored to your lifestyle. For example, a well-designed mudroom or custom cabinetry can keep your home organized and clutter-free, allowing its beauty to shine without sacrificing practicality. The laundry room/mudroom at the Coeur d’Alene Lake House? The perfect example of this.

Timeless Paint Colors

Paint can transform a space, and when it comes to classic options, Benjamin Moore’s Historic Collection is a treasure trove. These shades have stood the test of time for a reason. Farrow & Ball also offers rich, nuanced colors that feel layered and sophisticated. Consider shades like “Puritan Gray”—a color that’s hard to pin down, which is exactly what makes it so enduring.

Want a list of my tried and true paint colors? Check out my list of favorites.

Luxe Materials + Textures

Incorporating high-quality materials and textures adds an extra layer of sophistication to your home. Handmade ceramic pieces, metal objects, and textiles like linens and velvets create a rich, inviting atmosphere. See below, the French Chateau entry with luxe materials from the ceiling to the floors. Also, the Fountain Hills great room that has custom velvet chairs.

Wallpapers That Will Never Go Out of Style

If I am designing a space, there will be wallpaper going up somewhere in that house. I love using bold wallpapers in a smaller space like a powder bath. Grasscloth wallpaper is another timeless option, adding depth and subtle texture to walls. Muted floral patterns are a favorite of mine. They’re understated yet elegant, as proven by the classic look of my dining room. I designed this space back in 2021 and I am still absolutely obsessed.

*Grasscloth Wallpaper in the 51st Reno Primary Bedroom*

Choose What You Love

The secret to timeless design is choosing pieces, colors, and patterns that resonate with you. Trends come and go, but the things you truly love will always feel right in your home. Personal touches, like travel finds, pieces from past homes, and gifts from loved ones, can make a space uniquely yours. Even if it’s not “in” at the moment, choosing what resonates with you ensures your home feels authentic and joyful. See how we incorporated a light fixture from our client’s past home that they adored. We made sure it would fit perfectly in this space.

Flooring: The Classic Choice

Wood floors are a staple of timeless design. While luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring may be practical, it lacks the warmth and character of real wood. Opting for solid or engineered hardwood (if you’re in a hot climate like Arizona) will elevate your home’s aesthetic and feel. As stated earlier, medium oak is my favorite way to go. It is a perfect neutral that will match whatever else you have going on in your home.

Pulling It All Together

Designing a timeless home means paying attention to the details—from the materials you choose to the finishes you select. By prioritizing quality, function, and the things you truly love, you’ll create a space that not only impresses but also works beautifully for your family. Whether it’s marble countertops, medium wood tones, or using your favorite color, the key is to design a home that feels like yours—today and for years to come.

Thanks for stopping by and exploring timeless design with us.

Until next time, happy designing!

Xo,

Lexi

All photos by John Woodcock

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