Is This Trend Right for You? How to Design for Now and Later

Design trends come and go, but your home should still feel like YOU years down the road. As tempting as it is to jump on the latest Pinterest craze or viral Instagram style, the key to a successful remodel isn’t just chasing what’s popular—it’s knowing what works for your life, your taste, and your long-term goals.

So, how do you balance timeless design with a few on-trend moments? Here’s what I walk clients through when they’re trying to decide whether a trend belongs in their remodel—or on their Pinterest board.

Ask Yourself: Is This ‘Me’ or Just ‘Now’?

Before you commit to any trend—whether it’s zellige tile, fluted wood, or open shelving—pause and reflect:

• Would I have loved this five years ago?

• Will I still love it five years from now?

• Does it align with the way I live every day?

If it’s a resounding yes, go for it. But if it’s just something you’re seeing everywhere and feeling FOMO over, it might be better to admire it from afar.

Trends can be fun, but your home is a long-term investment—and design decisions should be made with longevity in mind.

Layer Trendy with Timeless

The smartest way to incorporate a trend? Pair it with timeless elements.

Think of trendy pieces as accents, not anchors. For example:

• A bold, colorful backsplash can add personality—but keep your cabinets simple and classic.

• Trendy hardware finishes (like matte black or antique brass) are easy to update down the road, but a neutral countertop will last decades.

• Patterned floor tile can make a statement, especially in a powder room—but balance it with understated lighting and paint.

Designing with a layered approach lets you experiment without committing your whole space to a trend that might feel dated in a few years.

Consider Resale—But Don’t Design for Strangers

Yes, resale value matters—but so does the experience of actually living in your home. If you're remodeling with plans to sell in the near future (2–3 years), it’s smart to lean more classic and neutral. But if you plan to stay longer, prioritize what makes you happy.

You’re the one who lives in the space day in and day out. A space that reflects your style and supports your routine is going to serve you better than one designed solely for broad market appeal.

That said, a good designer can help you strike a balance. We can take your must-have trend and translate it in a way that still appeals to future buyers—think tone-on-tone color palettes, modern shapes in classic materials, or a unique layout that still makes practical sense.

Know the Lifespan of a Trend

Some design elements are more fleeting than others. For instance:

• Colors and patterns tend to cycle in and out quickly

• Tile shapes and materials have longer lifespans

• Built-ins and cabinetry styles change less often

Understanding the “trend cycle” can help you make more informed decisions. If a trend is peaking now, it might start feeling tired in a year or two. But if it's been gaining steady popularity for a while (think white oak flooring or mixed metals), it may have more staying power.

Design for Real Life, Not Just the Photo

Lastly, remember that Instagram doesn’t show everything. That dramatic slab backsplash might look amazing online—but does it fit your budget? That all-white kitchen? Gorgeous, but maybe not ideal with three dogs and a toddler.

Trends can inspire us, but your space needs to work for your day-to-day life. A good remodel doesn’t just look good—it lives well.

Design trends can be fun to play with—but they shouldn't dictate your entire remodel. When in doubt, start with what feels right for you, layer in timeless elements, and sprinkle trends in where they make sense. Your future self will thank you.

Need help finding your design balance? Let’s chat. My job is to help you create a space that feels like home today and years from now.

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