Totally Timeless Decor–5 Classics Every Home Needs

Photo credit: www.RalphLauren.com

I love trends–and shopping–as much as the next girl. Yet, as the years have passed and I’ve decorated more homes than I can shake a stick at, I’ve come to value the design-point-of-view of designers with staying power like Ralph Lauren.  Whether designing apparel (I’m gaga about that smart little black dress and bag with beret shown above–and don’t get me started about those gorgeous heels with the ribbon ties!) or home furnishings, King Ralph is all about design that stands the test of time.  Yet, the look feels fresh because of how the elements are reinvented via shape, pattern, texture and color, then mixed together with a few trend-driven items. 

When you stop to think about it, this approach makes perfect sense, especially when it comes to decorating your home. It focuses on spending wisely on better quality furnishings instead of flash-in-the-pan items that’ll be passe in six months; and saving time because there’s no need to strip the house bare and start over again to avoid a dated look.  The work of Ralph and other designers (Vicente Wolf and Brit Nina Campbell to name a few) are proof that timeless decor needn’t be fuddy-duddy.  When done right, it’s chic and forever stylish; and something we should all set our sights on achieving.

Photo credit: Durston Saylor, www.ArchitecturalDigest.com

Ralph Lauren’s Norman-style manor house in Bedford, New York, dates to 1919 and is perfectly accessorized with two vintage automobiles fro his collection.

Photo credit: Durston Saylor, www.ArchitecturalDigest.com

Designers like Ralph Lauren are masters of the eclectic mix as seen in his Bedford home living room. It delights the eye ranging from a classic Asian carved coffee table and old world woven rugs to a casual, overstuffed sofa.  The overall look is classic but the room is filled with trendy touches like the Safari print accent chairs and piles of patterned pillows that can be easily changed out on a whim.

Photo credit: Durston Saylor, www.ArchitecturalDigest.com

Even in Jamaica, Ralph’s classic style looks at-home because of how he’s mixed the furnishings.  In his living room, classics like the 18th century gilt mirror and Americana chandelier look great alongside mid-century accent chairs, a contemporary sofa and sleek glass-topped table.  A sisal rug adds texture and black trimmed doorways punctuate the room with dramatic focal point color.

Interiors like these are great for inspiration and always help me zero in on the type of furnishings that can deliver the look. Then I go shopping for furnishings within my budget (which I’m guessing is ever so slightly more modest than that of Sir Ralph).  Here are five pieces of affordable timeless decor that will style up your home for years now and for years to come.

Its lovely caged glass and copper-highlighted dark metal finish make the Bedford sconce a perfect pick for a classic foyer, bathroom (flanking the vanity mirror) or dining room.

The Traditional Panel mirror, with its distinctive scrolled mahogany frame, works as a stand-alone on a slender wall or as part of a large room focal point grouping.

Crosses are both iconic and classic design elements.  What makes this Cross Stand unique is its fluted ball finial that adds architectural interest.

Never underestimate the power of a candlestick lamp like “Modern Romance.“  When used as a pair, this little lamp visually anchors the mantel or a console table and draws the eye upward toward art.  It’s red shade also adds a pop of color to a bedside table and delivers much-needed reading light without taking up much surface space.

The Charleston metal candle urn has staying power thanks to its clean-lined multi-functional design.  It’s at-home in homes from traditional to shabby chic.  It’s sized right for the mantel, table or dining room buffet and can be filled with a variety of objects like flowers, branches or a chunky candle.