Articles
/
Guides

EZiD Explains: 10 Of The Most Timeless Renovation Designs That Won’t Go Out of Trend

Written By
Stephen Chan
Date Written:
15/11/2024
A Scandinavian HDB by Commute Design Studio
A Scandinavian HDB by Commute Design Studio

“I saw this on insert social influencer’s name’s home tour!” “So and so on Tiktok said we should do this for our home!” The truth is, when renovating your home, it’s easy to get carried away with the latest trends, and even wanting to copy most of them. However, some of these trends can quickly become outdated, leaving you with a space that feels out of sync in a few years time.

Want something more future proof? In this article, we’ll share our insights on the most timeless renovation designs and how you can incorporate these classic elements into your home without worrying about them going out of style.

1. Neutral Colour Palettes

A Modern Scandinavian HDB by LuxCraft
A Modern Scandinavian HDB by LuxCraft

The foundation of any timeless design is a neutral colour palette. Colours like soft whites, beige, grey, and subtle earth tones not only create a serene, sophisticated atmosphere but also give you flexibility when updating your decor in the future. Neutral walls and finishes allow you to introduce accent colours or textures as trends evolve, without requiring a complete overhaul.

How to Incorporate

Opt for light, neutral tones on walls and furniture. Layer in subtle textures through rugs, pillows, and throws for depth without cluttering the space. These soft hues also make smaller spaces, common in Singapore, feel open and airy.

2. Natural Materials

A Dark Modern HDB by The Enso
A Dark Modern HDB by The Enso

Nothing says timeless like high-quality natural materials. Wood, stone, metal, and glass have been used for centuries in homes and continue to be a hallmark of enduring design. Their durability, versatility, and beauty make them an ideal choice for everything from flooring to countertops.

How to Incorporate

Use solid wood for flooring or cabinetry, natural stone like marble or granite for countertops, and choose metal fixtures with a brushed or matte finish for a refined, understated look. These materials age beautifully and add a sense of craftsmanship and quality to any home.

3. Classic Subway Tiles

A Contemporary HDB by Aart Boxx Interior
A Contemporary HDB by Aart Boxx Interior

Subway tiles have been an interior design staple since the early 1900s, and for good reason. Their simple, rectangular shape offers endless versatility. While white subway tiles remain the most popular, they can be adapted with different colours or grout options for a subtle twist on this classic look.

How to incorporate It

Install subway tiles in your kitchen or bathroom for a clean, timeless aesthetic. Use coloured grout for a modern touch or arrange the tiles in different patterns like herringbone or vertical stack for a unique spin.

4. Shaker-Style Cabinetry

A Pastel Minimalist HDB by Massing Design
A Pastel Minimalist HDB by Massing Design

Shaker-style cabinets are another timeless design feature that continues to be favoured for kitchens and bathrooms. Known for their simple lines and lack of ornate details, they exude elegance and work well with almost any decor style.

How to Incorporate It

Opt for shaker cabinets in wood or neutral paint colours. Pair them with sleek, classic hardware like brushed nickel or matte black handles for a clean, polished look.

5. Open-Concept Layouts

A Contemporary HDB by Darwin Interior
A Contemporary HDB by Darwin Interior

Ahhh, everyone’s favourite. Open-concept layouts are ideal for creating a sense of space and fluidity in homes, especially in Singapore where space can be limited. Removing unnecessary walls between the kitchen, dining, and living areas not only makes the home feel larger but also fosters better interaction and flow.

How to Incorporate It

When possible, consider removing walls between your kitchen, dining, and living spaces. Use furniture or rugs to create defined areas within the open space, while maintaining a cohesive design through consistent colours and materials.

6. Hardwood Flooring

A Wabi Sabi Minimalist HDB by The Interior Lab
A Wabi Sabi Minimalist HDB by The Interior Lab

Few materials are as timeless and beloved as hardwood flooring. Whether it’s oak, walnut, or teak, wood flooring adds warmth, character, and sophistication to a home. With proper care, it can last decades, and even be refinished to suit changing tastes over time.

How to Incorporate It

Choose hardwood in classic finishes and plank sizes to avoid the trend-driven wide planks or grey tones. Herringbone or chevron patterns can add a subtle but timeless twist to the design. Hardwood floors are a beautiful long-term investment in any home.

7. Timeless Lighting Fixtures

A Contemporary Condo by The I-Plan Studio
A Contemporary Condo by The I-Plan Studio

Lighting is often an overlooked element in renovation design, but it can make or break a room’s atmosphere. Timeless lighting fixtures blend form and function, providing both illumination and a refined aesthetic. Think chandeliers, pendant lights, and classic wall sconces in neutral tones and finishes.

How to incorporate It

Select fixtures with clean lines and quality finishes like brass or matte black. Avoid overly ornate designs, and instead, focus on shapes and materials that will complement your home for years to come.

8. Built-In Storage

A Scandinavian HDB by Aestherior
A Scandinavian HDB by Aestherior

Built-in storage solutions are a functional, elegant way to maximise space and keep your home looking organised. Some might even say it’s a must-have for Singaporean homes. Custom cabinets, bookshelves, and wardrobes tailored to your home’s specific dimensions ensure a seamless look that won’t go out of style.

How to Incorporate It

Consider built-ins for areas like your living room, bedroom, or home office. Floor-to-ceiling shelving or wardrobes in neutral finishes keep spaces uncluttered and provide long-term storage solutions that are both practical and beautiful.

9. Timeless and Multi-Functional Furniture

A Nordic Minimalist HDB by Ninelines Interior
A Nordic Minimalist HDB by Ninelines Interior

In Singapore, where space is often limited, it’s essential to choose furniture that not only looks great but also serves multiple purposes. Classic, well-made furniture pieces with clean lines and neutral tones will always stay relevant, while multi-functional options ensure your home remains practical. Opt for furniture that blends form and function, such as a sofa bed or a dining table with built-in storage.

How to Incorporate It

Choose timeless designs like a solid wood dining table or a neutral-tone mo sofa that can adapt to any style change. Look for pieces that double up on functionality, such as coffee tables with hidden compartments or modular furniture that can be rearranged to suit different needs.

10. Internal Glass Doors

A Rukisyuki (Modern Wabi Sabi Inspired) HDB by Ninelines Interior
A Rukisyuki (Modern Wabi Sabi Inspired) HDB by Ninelines Interior

As we do not foresee the size of HDBs or apartments growing in the future (sigh), making a smaller space look bigger will never go out of trend. A neat trick that IDs like to use is to incorporate internal glass doors or sliding glass partitions instead of solid walls to open up your home. This design trick allows light to flow freely between rooms, making your space feel large.

How to Incorporate It

Sliding glass doors can be used between the kitchen and living room or between the living area and study. Frosted or partially opaque glass can maintain privacy while still letting light pass through. That way, you can keep your home feeling spacious and modern, adding a touch of elegance and practicality.

Achieve Timeless Design with EZiD

Like these tips? Why not get some personal, professional advice, tailored to your own home? At EZiD, we connect you with Singapore’s most respected IDs, known for their expertise in creating not just trendy, but also timeless designs. Each ID on our platform is carefully vetted, ensuring they have the skills and vision to create spaces that reflect both your personality and the enduring elegance you seek.

Don’t settle for just another ID. Use EZiD to connect with the top professionals who can craft a timeless home that stays stylish, functional, and perfectly tailored to your needs.

Share this article
Articles
/
Guides

EZiD Explains: 10 Of The Most Timeless Renovation Designs That Won’t Go Out of Trend

Written By
Stephen Chan
Date Written:
15/11/2024
A Scandinavian HDB by Commute Design Studio
A Scandinavian HDB by Commute Design Studio

“I saw this on insert social influencer’s name’s home tour!” “So and so on Tiktok said we should do this for our home!” The truth is, when renovating your home, it’s easy to get carried away with the latest trends, and even wanting to copy most of them. However, some of these trends can quickly become outdated, leaving you with a space that feels out of sync in a few years time.

Want something more future proof? In this article, we’ll share our insights on the most timeless renovation designs and how you can incorporate these classic elements into your home without worrying about them going out of style.

1. Neutral Colour Palettes

A Modern Scandinavian HDB by LuxCraft
A Modern Scandinavian HDB by LuxCraft

The foundation of any timeless design is a neutral colour palette. Colours like soft whites, beige, grey, and subtle earth tones not only create a serene, sophisticated atmosphere but also give you flexibility when updating your decor in the future. Neutral walls and finishes allow you to introduce accent colours or textures as trends evolve, without requiring a complete overhaul.

How to Incorporate

Opt for light, neutral tones on walls and furniture. Layer in subtle textures through rugs, pillows, and throws for depth without cluttering the space. These soft hues also make smaller spaces, common in Singapore, feel open and airy.

2. Natural Materials

A Dark Modern HDB by The Enso
A Dark Modern HDB by The Enso

Nothing says timeless like high-quality natural materials. Wood, stone, metal, and glass have been used for centuries in homes and continue to be a hallmark of enduring design. Their durability, versatility, and beauty make them an ideal choice for everything from flooring to countertops.

How to Incorporate

Use solid wood for flooring or cabinetry, natural stone like marble or granite for countertops, and choose metal fixtures with a brushed or matte finish for a refined, understated look. These materials age beautifully and add a sense of craftsmanship and quality to any home.

3. Classic Subway Tiles

A Contemporary HDB by Aart Boxx Interior
A Contemporary HDB by Aart Boxx Interior

Subway tiles have been an interior design staple since the early 1900s, and for good reason. Their simple, rectangular shape offers endless versatility. While white subway tiles remain the most popular, they can be adapted with different colours or grout options for a subtle twist on this classic look.

How to incorporate It

Install subway tiles in your kitchen or bathroom for a clean, timeless aesthetic. Use coloured grout for a modern touch or arrange the tiles in different patterns like herringbone or vertical stack for a unique spin.

4. Shaker-Style Cabinetry

A Pastel Minimalist HDB by Massing Design
A Pastel Minimalist HDB by Massing Design

Shaker-style cabinets are another timeless design feature that continues to be favoured for kitchens and bathrooms. Known for their simple lines and lack of ornate details, they exude elegance and work well with almost any decor style.

How to Incorporate It

Opt for shaker cabinets in wood or neutral paint colours. Pair them with sleek, classic hardware like brushed nickel or matte black handles for a clean, polished look.

5. Open-Concept Layouts

A Contemporary HDB by Darwin Interior
A Contemporary HDB by Darwin Interior

Ahhh, everyone’s favourite. Open-concept layouts are ideal for creating a sense of space and fluidity in homes, especially in Singapore where space can be limited. Removing unnecessary walls between the kitchen, dining, and living areas not only makes the home feel larger but also fosters better interaction and flow.

How to Incorporate It

When possible, consider removing walls between your kitchen, dining, and living spaces. Use furniture or rugs to create defined areas within the open space, while maintaining a cohesive design through consistent colours and materials.

6. Hardwood Flooring

A Wabi Sabi Minimalist HDB by The Interior Lab
A Wabi Sabi Minimalist HDB by The Interior Lab

Few materials are as timeless and beloved as hardwood flooring. Whether it’s oak, walnut, or teak, wood flooring adds warmth, character, and sophistication to a home. With proper care, it can last decades, and even be refinished to suit changing tastes over time.

How to Incorporate It

Choose hardwood in classic finishes and plank sizes to avoid the trend-driven wide planks or grey tones. Herringbone or chevron patterns can add a subtle but timeless twist to the design. Hardwood floors are a beautiful long-term investment in any home.

7. Timeless Lighting Fixtures

A Contemporary Condo by The I-Plan Studio
A Contemporary Condo by The I-Plan Studio

Lighting is often an overlooked element in renovation design, but it can make or break a room’s atmosphere. Timeless lighting fixtures blend form and function, providing both illumination and a refined aesthetic. Think chandeliers, pendant lights, and classic wall sconces in neutral tones and finishes.

How to incorporate It

Select fixtures with clean lines and quality finishes like brass or matte black. Avoid overly ornate designs, and instead, focus on shapes and materials that will complement your home for years to come.

8. Built-In Storage

A Scandinavian HDB by Aestherior
A Scandinavian HDB by Aestherior

Built-in storage solutions are a functional, elegant way to maximise space and keep your home looking organised. Some might even say it’s a must-have for Singaporean homes. Custom cabinets, bookshelves, and wardrobes tailored to your home’s specific dimensions ensure a seamless look that won’t go out of style.

How to Incorporate It

Consider built-ins for areas like your living room, bedroom, or home office. Floor-to-ceiling shelving or wardrobes in neutral finishes keep spaces uncluttered and provide long-term storage solutions that are both practical and beautiful.

9. Timeless and Multi-Functional Furniture

A Nordic Minimalist HDB by Ninelines Interior
A Nordic Minimalist HDB by Ninelines Interior

In Singapore, where space is often limited, it’s essential to choose furniture that not only looks great but also serves multiple purposes. Classic, well-made furniture pieces with clean lines and neutral tones will always stay relevant, while multi-functional options ensure your home remains practical. Opt for furniture that blends form and function, such as a sofa bed or a dining table with built-in storage.

How to Incorporate It

Choose timeless designs like a solid wood dining table or a neutral-tone mo sofa that can adapt to any style change. Look for pieces that double up on functionality, such as coffee tables with hidden compartments or modular furniture that can be rearranged to suit different needs.

10. Internal Glass Doors

A Rukisyuki (Modern Wabi Sabi Inspired) HDB by Ninelines Interior
A Rukisyuki (Modern Wabi Sabi Inspired) HDB by Ninelines Interior

As we do not foresee the size of HDBs or apartments growing in the future (sigh), making a smaller space look bigger will never go out of trend. A neat trick that IDs like to use is to incorporate internal glass doors or sliding glass partitions instead of solid walls to open up your home. This design trick allows light to flow freely between rooms, making your space feel large.

How to Incorporate It

Sliding glass doors can be used between the kitchen and living room or between the living area and study. Frosted or partially opaque glass can maintain privacy while still letting light pass through. That way, you can keep your home feeling spacious and modern, adding a touch of elegance and practicality.

Achieve Timeless Design with EZiD

Like these tips? Why not get some personal, professional advice, tailored to your own home? At EZiD, we connect you with Singapore’s most respected IDs, known for their expertise in creating not just trendy, but also timeless designs. Each ID on our platform is carefully vetted, ensuring they have the skills and vision to create spaces that reflect both your personality and the enduring elegance you seek.

Don’t settle for just another ID. Use EZiD to connect with the top professionals who can craft a timeless home that stays stylish, functional, and perfectly tailored to your needs.

Share this article