As furniture designers, we’re constantly navigating the ever-shifting world of trends. One season it’s curves and bouclé, the next it’s clean lines and chrome. But while trends come and go, our clients want something a little more lasting – a home that looks as good five years from now as it does today.
Here’s the good news: timeless and trendy don’t have to be at odds. In fact, the best interiors often strike a thoughtful balance between the two. Let’s explore how to design homes that feel fresh and enduring!
Build a timeless base
Before jumping into the latest design craze, start with a strong foundation. Timeless design relies on elements that have consistently stood up to changing styles – think neutral tones, clean lines, natural textures and functional layouts.
These foundational pieces bring longevity and allow room to evolve. A neutral sofa, elegant dining table or well-made armchair in a simple silhouette won’t feel outdated anytime soon.
Designer tip: Choose versatile upholstery pieces like the Edward Sofa or Laurent Modular Sofa. Their clean lines and neutral tones make them adaptable as trends shift.
Add trend-forward accents
Once the base is in place, you can layer in the fun. Accent pieces are the perfect place to experiment with current trends – bold patterns, sculptural forms, playful colour pops or metallic finishes.
Because these elements are easier to swap out later, you can keep things fresh without committing long-term.
Try this: Use contemporary seating like the Jermain Chair with a metallic base to add a trendy edge without overwhelming the overall design.
Invest in quality – even for trendy pieces
Trendy doesn’t have to mean disposable. If you’re drawn to a trend, make sure it’s built to last. A curvy chair or bouclé finish will stay relevant longer if the craftsmanship is strong and the materials are high-end.
Example: Our Alexander Armchair pairs timeless tailoring with a fashion-forward shape – proof that you can embrace a look and make it last.
Match the trend to the client
Not every trend works for every client, and that’s what makes interior design personal. Listen to their lifestyle, aesthetic preferences and needs. The best projects don’t follow every trend – they filter them through the client’s personality.
Pro move: Use concept boards and samples to help clients see how trendy choices can still feel timeless when done right.
Design for flexibility
The more adaptable a space is, the longer it can stay trendy. That might mean choosing modular furniture, multi-purpose pieces or creating layouts that are easy to refresh.
Smart solution: Sofas like Laurent or convertible pieces like the Beaumont Sofa and Jacques Sofa give you the freedom to redesign the space without starting from scratch.
Timeless trends
Some trends stick around because they’re rooted in good design principles – comfort, simplicity and craftsmanship. These “timeless trends” evolve subtly over time but never truly go out of style. Here are a few that continue to resonate with clients and designers alike:
1. Soft, rounded shapes
Curved silhouettes have been around for decades, from mid-century lounges to today’s modular sofas. They bring comfort and visual softness to a space, helping create a relaxed atmosphere that feels elegant and inviting.
Domkapa pick: The Olivia Sofa blends sculptural curves with modular versatility. Its adaptable layout makes it a smart, enduring choice.
2. Earthy, neutral tones
While bold colours come and go, neutrals like sand, taupe, ivory and mocha consistently create serene, cohesive interiors. These shades provide a quiet backdrop for experimentation and work beautifully across styles – from minimalist to classic.
Try this: Combine neutral upholstery with tactile fabrics to add depth. Domkapa’s material library offers timeless options in earthy, textured finishes.
3. Mixed materials
The contrast between soft and structured, like fabric and metal or wood and leather, creates a layered, timeless look. It adds dimension to your projects without relying on colour alone.
Design tip: The Norah Chair encourages the use of contrasting fabrics on the seat and backrest, allowing for endless material combinations like velvet and leather.
4. Sculptural simplicity
Simplicity is a trend that never fades. Clean-lined furniture with subtle details – like fine stitching, inset seams or graceful proportions – always looks considered and elegant.
Domkapa highlight: Pieces like the Matthew Sofa or the Alexander Armchair offer subtle design features that elevate the space without overpowering it.
All in all, timeless and trendy can coexist. You don’t have to choose one over the other. By building on a timeless foundation and thoughtfully weaving in current influences, you can create homes that feel fresh and relevant, no matter the year.
After all, great design isn’t just about what’s hot right now. It’s about creating spaces your clients will still love in the long run.
Need help choosing timeless upholstery pieces for your next project? Contact our trade team.
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