Houses from the 1920s still look good. Houses from 1985 look dated. What’s the difference? Some design choices age, others don’t.
Why Old Houses Age Better
Real materials. Wood, stone, brick, plaster. They get character with age. Vinyl and laminate just get worn.
Proportions that work. Classical architecture figured out pleasing dimensions centuries ago. They still work because human perception hasn’t changed.
What Dates Fast
Trendy materials. That granite everyone installed in 2005? Already looks mid-2000s. Trends cycle faster than you think.
Gimmicky layouts. Sunken living rooms. Conversation pits. Seemed exciting once. Now they’re renovation projects.
Technology built in. Built-in entertainment centers from 1995 are mostly awkward holes now.
What Lasts
Natural light. Good windows placed thoughtfully never go out of style.
Logical flow. How you move through space matters regardless of current trends.
Quality basics. Hardwood floors, solid doors, real trim. Boring choices that age gracefully.
The Approach
Neutral foundation, personality through changeable things. Wall color, furniture, accessories – easy to update.
Tile, cabinets, built-ins – harder and more expensive. Choose timeless here. Classic subway tile still works after a century.
Trendy is for clothes. Houses should just feel like home, not a magazine from a specific decade.
