Obviously the question posed cannot be answered quickly or fully in a single blog post. Yet that won’t stop us from attempting to unpack and demystify a portion of the answer. Images have a way of enlightening and informing. When you’re after a beautifully evergreen design for your kitchen–one that pleases you today and will function for modern life now and for years to come–it is worth taking time for exploration. Timeless Kitchens: What Distinguishes Them from Trendy begins the discussion and such exploration.
![Beautiful French country kitchen with blue accents including range, tree mural behind it, and gingham fabric on shades - via Style Secrets Magazine. #frenchcountrykitchen #bluekitchens](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/blue-white-kitchen-style_secrets_magazine-mural-hydrangea-french-country.jpg)
Timeless Kitchens: Seeing Beyond Trends
We’re living in an era where there is excessive trendy kitchen content to consume from social media feeds, design blogs, magazines, influencers on television (HGTV, stylish sets on streaming series), and even non-virtual sources such as kitchen showrooms.
![Classic and luxurious white kitchen designed by Sherry Hart for the Brookhaven project. #whitekitchen #kitchendesign #classickitchen #traditionalkitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/sherry-hart-white-kitchen-black-window-brookhaven-project.jpg)
Distinguishing Timeless from Trends
In the marketplace, it seems we’re always being shown the new and improved kitchen design features that will improve daily life, boost property value, and thrill our senses.
![Beautifully rustic English country kitchen in the UK by deVOL has Shaker style cabinetry, farm sink, and a serene palette. #englishcountry #countrykitchen #kitchendesign #rustickitchen #frenchkitchen #shakerkitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cotes-mill-showroom-devol-kitchens-3.jpg)
Modern farmhouse kitchens are still trending in the 2020s which means Shaker style cabinets, floating shelves, shiplap, and subway tile is everywhere in the marketplace, media, and consciousness of mainstream America.
![Timeless, traditional, and classic, this black and white modern farmhouse kitchen by Edward Deegan feels approachable yet luxurious. #modernfarmhouse #interiordesign #blackandwhite #kitchendesign](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/edward-deegan-black-white-modern-farmhouse-kitchen-2.jpg)
But trends come and go, and what’s temporarily hot may be deemed “over” in just a couple of years. They come with risk. What’s more, modern farmhouse may not be the most appropriate style for your home’s architecture.
![Brick tiled wall in serene kitchen in Stunning French inspired luxury home in Houston. #luxuryhome #frenchhome #frenchcountry #sophisticateddecor #timelessdesign #kitchendesign](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/012-saddlewood-houston-home-white-brick-french-kitchen.jpg)
Do Timeless Designs Cost More?
They typically do since they are more customized and require more planning, design help, and high quality materials built to last.
![Beautifully rustic English country kitchen in the UK by deVOL has Shaker style cabinetry, farm sink, and a serene palette. #englishcountry #countrykitchen #kitchendesign #rustickitchen #frenchkitchen #shakerkitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cotes-mill-showroom-devol-kitchens-4.jpg)
House flippers seem to especially love trendy kitchen designs since what’s trending is readily available and cheaper. Since they want to appeal to wide range of buyers, they are safer choosing popular finishes and sticking to trends.
![Simple yet sophisticated white elegant kitchen with brass hardware, waterfall island, and farm sink - Park and Oak. #kitchendesign #classickitchen #whitekitchen #waterfallisland ##farmsink #elegantkitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/park-and-oak-cottage-hill-kitchen-ring-candle-pendant-1.jpg)
They essentially date the kitchen so there’s no doubt it’s full of what’s new! While flippers may splurge on certain trendy design elements, those elements may not be wise investments…is that gold grouted backsplash that feels utterly WOW and NOW going to feel relevant later?
![Traditional and elegant white farmhouse kitchen with grey and brass accents - The Fox Group. #kitchendesign #modernfarmhouse #traditionalstyle #classickitchens #thefoxgroup #beadboard #greykitchens](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/white-grey-modern-farmhouse-kitchen-the-fox-group-salazar-photo.jpg)
Trendy options can be less costly, but choosing them could cost more in the long term. Kitchens are expensive to re-do…trust me!
![Benjamin Moore White paint color on cottage kitchen Palmetto Bluff by Lisa Furey. #benjaminmoorewhite #paintcolors #whitepaint #bestwhites #kitchendecor](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/whitest-white-paint-color-benjamin-moore-white-kitchen-lisa-furey.jpg)
Timeless designs are an investment in time, creativity, and expense now to avoid demo and remodels later.
![Romantic all white French country kitchen by French Nest Interior Design Co with farm sink flanked by sconces, linen curtain panels, and simple classic cabinetry. #frenchcountry #kitchens #frenchkitchens #kitchendesign #farmsink #romanticdecor](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/french-country-white-kitchen-french-nest-interior-design-co-farm-sink-curtains.jpg)
Is a Timeless Kitchen Boring?
Timeless design isn’t just for conservatives or practical types. It’s also not about creating something old fashioned, unfashionable, generic, plain, dull, or without an identifiable style.
![Beautiful white modern farmhouse kitchen with black accents, farm sink, and herringbone wood flooring - Simple Offerings. #whitekitchen #herringbonewoodflooring #modernfarmhousekitchen #shakerkitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/white-kitchen-herringbone-wood-flooring-simple-offerings.jpeg)
![Inspirational quote about endurance on Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes #inspirationalquotes](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/inspirational-quote-hello-lovely-studio-day-you-plant-the-seed.jpg)
Pretty timeless kitchens have style for miles!
![Blue and white kitchen breakfast nook with Schumacher's Montecito Medallion paisley print fabric (a collab with @markdsikes_interiors)Design: @mungerinteriors/Photo: @michaelhunterphoto](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/mungerinteriors-michaelhunterphoto-schumacher-medallion-print-fabric-blue-white-kitchen-banquette.jpg)
But they often require specialized labor or materials, handmade elements, skilled craftsmanship, and patience.
![English country kitchen with beautiful bespoke design by deVOL. Rustic wood ceiling beams, custom Shaker cabinetry, and timeless style. #timelesskitchens](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/001-cotes-mill-showroom-devol-kitchens-3.jpg)
Successful projects take shape from a deeper sense of history, quality, thoughtfulness, and design confidence.
![Breathtaking, elegant, and rustic luxe English country kitchen by deVOL kitchens in the UK with bespoke cabinetry, AGA stove, steel windows and doors, woven pendants, and copper accents. Interior design by Susie Atkinson.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/devol-kitchen-susie-atkinson-011.jpg)
If you have never designed a kitchen, your confidence is likely low. This is why it is so essential to partner with professional kitchen designers and interior designers who understand timeless design and have years of experience designing kitchens for a variety of personalities.
Tips for Timeless Kitchen Design Planning
Understand your home’s architecture and style to begin the process of imagining what type of kitchen design will harmonize with and elevate what is already there.
![20 Kitchen Design Ideas to Inspire your own kitchen renovation, makeover, DIY, spruce up, or brand new kitchen! Score decorating ideas and style inspiration on Hello Lovely Studio. #kitchendesign #kitchenremodel #kitchenideas](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/french-farmhouse-kitchen-the-french-nest.jpg)
For example, if your home is a cottage, there are all sorts of timeless directions you could explore design-wise. While timeless design is often understated and sophisticated, it may be appropriate to lean into casual, country simplicity more than say a formal, traditional, more elegant direction.
![Beautifully rustic English country kitchen in the UK by deVOL has Shaker style cabinetry, farm sink, and a serene palette. #englishcountry #countrykitchen #kitchendesign #rustickitchen #frenchkitchen #shakerkitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cotes-mill-showroom-devol-kitchens-2.jpg)
Once you find a kitchen style that appeals to your aesthetic and feels appropriate for your home, you can explore that design style it in more detail and note the elements you want to include.
![Benjamin Moore Decorators White on cabinet in a beautiful kitchen with blue Lacanche range - Elizabeth Walker Raith. #benjaminmoore #decoratorswhite #paintcolors #whitepaint #bestwhites #kitchendecor #modernfarmhousekitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/whitest-white-paint-color-benjamin-moore-decorators-white-kitchen-cabinets-elizabeth-walker-raith.jpg)
Whether you’re working alone or with a designer, use Pinterest to curate inspiring images of cabinet styles, appliances, flooring, color stories, countertops, sinks, and hardware.
![Lovely coastal white kitchen breakfast nook with Saarinen style table, banquette, wicker pendant, and Parisian bistro chairs from Serena & Lily. #breakfastnook #banquette #whitekitchen #windowseat #serenaandlily #saarinentable](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/serena-lily-window-seat-banquette-white-kitchen.jpg)
Educate yourself about the durability, longevity, and quality of materials for flooring, cabinets, trim, doors, and windows. For example, wood flooring products that are 1/2″ in thickness cannot be refinished as many times as 3/4″ thick flooring.
![Schumacher 1889 fabric on roman shades in a beautiful white kitchen with farm sink, little girl in polka dot dress, and vase of limelight hydrangeas. #blueandwhitekitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/schumacher1889-blue-white-kitchen-roman-shades-child-polkadot-farm-sink.jpg)
Take your time finding a local design professional who has experience creating timeless designs. Your diligence now will be worth it in the end.
![John Ortberg love quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #lovequotes](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0001-love-quote-hurry-john-ortberg-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
What Makes a Design Timeless?
There is all sorts of design and architectural intelligence undergirding timelessness. Knowledge of traditional, enduring, and classic principles will guide your choices for materials, finishes, and even color.
![20 Kitchen Design Ideas to Inspire your own kitchen renovation, makeover, DIY, spruce up, or brand new kitchen! Score decorating ideas and style inspiration on Hello Lovely Studio. #kitchendesign #kitchenremodel #kitchenideas](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/the-fox-group-interior-design-white-kitchen-5.jpg)
Think about popcorn ceilings or avocado appliances that are a dead giveaways that a kitchen was created in the 1970s!
![Funny quote about being awesome on Hello Lovely Studio. #doghumor #dogquotes](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/001-funny-quote-about-being-who-your-dog-thinks-you-are-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
Timeless materials and design elements age well. For example, unlacquered brass has gained popularity in recent years but is fitting for a timeless kitchen because it not only lasts but also develops an attractive patina with age.
![20 Kitchen Design Ideas to Inspire your own kitchen renovation, makeover, DIY, spruce up, or brand new kitchen! Score decorating ideas and style inspiration on Hello Lovely Studio. #kitchendesign #kitchenremodel #kitchenideas](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/the-fox-group-interior-design-white-kitchen-4.jpg)
Like the idea of clear glass shelves? I found THESE glass shelf options.
![Happiness quote on Hello Lovely Studio by John Harrigan.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/001-HAPPINESS-QUOTE-john-harrigan-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
The color palette for a timeless kitchen is also important and neutrals are commonly called for since they feel understated and natural.
![Navy blue kitchen cabinets in a pantry with beautiful patterned tile on backsplash and an under the sea motif - Maine House Interiors (Photo: @lisacohenphotography). #bluekitchencabinets #navybluekitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/mainehouseinteriors-navy-blue-kitchen-cabinets-pantry-lisacohenphotography.jpg)
Are white kitchens the safest choice for a timeless kitchen?
![John O'Donohue quote and blessing of encouragement on Hello Lovely Studio. #blessingquote #gracequote](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/001-encouragement-quote-blessing-future-graced-love-john-odonohue-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
White kitchens have staying power for sure. White feels clean, bright, and not tied to a particular era or decade.
Incorporating Antiques, Architecture & Handmade into Timeless Designs
There are so many great books on this topic, and antiques are such an important part of finishing any interior.
![Beautifully rustic English country kitchen in the UK by deVOL has Shaker style cabinetry, farm sink, and a serene palette. #englishcountry #countrykitchen #kitchendesign #rustickitchen #frenchkitchen #shakerkitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cotes-mill-showroom-devol-kitchens-10.jpg)
When everything in a space is new, things can feel dull and ordinary.
![20 Kitchen Design Ideas to Inspire your own kitchen renovation, makeover, DIY, spruce up, or brand new kitchen! Score decorating ideas and style inspiration on Hello Lovely Studio. #kitchendesign #kitchenremodel #kitchenideas](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/grand-kitchen-fox-group.jpg)
Artwork, accessories, seating, and lighting offer opportunities to shop for vintage or antique items.
![Beautifully rustic English country kitchen in the UK by deVOL has Shaker style cabinetry, farm sink, and a serene palette. #englishcountry #countrykitchen #kitchendesign #rustickitchen #frenchkitchen #shakerkitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/001-cotes-mill-showroom-devol-kitchens-9.jpg)
Architecture can also play a starring role in a timeless kitchen whether it be existing or new.
![20 Kitchen Design Ideas to Inspire your own kitchen renovation, makeover, DIY, spruce up, or brand new kitchen! Score decorating ideas and style inspiration on Hello Lovely Studio. #kitchendesign #kitchenremodel #kitchenideas](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/hello-lovely-studio-fixer-upper-kitchen-7.jpg)
Is there an opportunity to add crown molding, a built-in, or a special ceiling treatment?
![Serene European country inspired breakfast nook in my kitchen with Belgian linen - Hello Lovely Studio.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/hello-lovely-studio-kitchen-breakfast-nook-window-seat.jpg)
Even details like tongue and groove for walls can add a richness and tradition.
![A mix of whites in my timelessly tranquil kitchen with European country decor, Viatera Minuet quartz, and Belgian linen - Hello Lovely Studio.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/hello-lovely-studio-kitchen-aug-2019-003.jpg)
Handmade and hand-crafted design elements often join the mix in a timeless kitchen.
![Inspirational quote on Hello Lovely Studio - stay close to the things that make you come alive. #inspirationalquotes #lifequotes](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/inspirational-quote-on-hello-lovely-studio-stay-close-to-things-come-alive.jpg)
Bespoke cabinets, for example, or hand-forged hardware.
![Herringbone pattern for wood floor in white kitchen. White English farmhouse style home by The Fox Group. Come be inspired these English Farmhouse Style Decorating Ideas. #modernfarmhouse #englishfarmhouse #interiordesignideas #farmhousestyle #decoratingideas #kitchendesign #whiteoak #herringbone #woodfoor](https://i.pinimg.com/736x/20/83/0d/20830d3256b28df66bc70dbb478ab993.jpg)
Hand-applied plaster finishes for walls or hardwood flooring finished on site by hand are also examples of such commitment to artful quality over commercial mediocrity.
![Beautifully rustic English country kitchen in the UK by deVOL has Shaker style cabinetry, farm sink, and a serene palette. #englishcountry #countrykitchen #kitchendesign #rustickitchen #frenchkitchen #shakerkitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image.png)
Obviously, there is much more to say about approaches to a timeless kitchen design project. In my own recent kitchen renovation, I strived to bring together timeless elements I love:
![Pom pom garland at the kitchen sink window - Hello Lovely Studio. #paviliongray #graykitchen #calacattagoldmarble](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/001-thanksgiving-28.jpg)
Muted colors, high quality fixtures, gilded iron for lighting, marble for walls, farm sink, and plaster finished custom range hood. (The cooktop is a dead giveaway this is a modern renovation though, and I wasn’t up for having a custom panel made for the existing dishwasher!)
![20 Kitchen Design Ideas to Inspire your own kitchen renovation, makeover, DIY, spruce up, or brand new kitchen! Score decorating ideas and style inspiration on Hello Lovely Studio. #kitchendesign #kitchenremodel #kitchenideas](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/029.jpg)
![Funny cake quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #cakequotes #bakingquote](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/funny-quote-about-cake-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
Photo Gallery With Moments of Timeless Kitchen Beauty
![Vivi et Margot waffle weave kitchen hand towel in pink on white Ilve range in a French kitchen with cabinets painted Green Smoke (Farrow & Ball). #vivietmargot #frenchkitchens](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/vivi-et-margot-kitchen-green-smoke-pink-dishtowel-ilve-range-copper-pots.jpg)
![20 Kitchen Design Ideas to Inspire your own kitchen renovation, makeover, DIY, spruce up, or brand new kitchen! Score decorating ideas and style inspiration on Hello Lovely Studio. #kitchendesign #kitchenremodel #kitchenideas](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/FGC_Herbert_18-1.jpg)
![French Nordic Interior Design Inspiration...certainly lovely indeed. Beautiful white on white decorating ideas, shabby chic style, and Swedish inspired interiors. Come see this Nordic French home tour.of My Petite Maison. #nordicfrench #frenchnordic #swedishstyle #frenchcountry #housetour #shabbychic #whitedecor #jeannedarcliving #vintagestyle](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/32450805_2031143253816273_2362704850044583936_n.jpg)
![Kindness quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #kindnessquote #quotes #inspirationalquotes](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/inspirational-quote-hello-lovely-studio-today-will-never-come.jpg)
![20 Kitchen Design Ideas to Inspire your own kitchen renovation, makeover, DIY, spruce up, or brand new kitchen! Score decorating ideas and style inspiration on Hello Lovely Studio. #kitchendesign #kitchenremodel #kitchenideas](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/the-hatch-photo-shoot-location-west-uk-22.jpg)
![Robert Frost quote about the best way out on Hello Lovely Studio. #strugglequotes #robertfrost](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0001-quote-best-way-out-always-through-robert-frost-hello-lovely-studio-poem.jpg)
![Beautiful English country bespoke kitchen by deVOL Kitchens. COME TOUR THESE cottage kitchens to inspire! #countrykitchen #englishcountry #shakerkitchen #cottagekitchens #kitchendesign](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/00001-devol-cottage-kitchen-shaker-cabinets.jpg)
![20 Kitchen Design Ideas to Inspire your own kitchen renovation, makeover, DIY, spruce up, or brand new kitchen! Score decorating ideas and style inspiration on Hello Lovely Studio. #kitchendesign #kitchenremodel #kitchenideas](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/paris-apartment-hello-lovely-studio-kitchen.jpg)
![Beautifully rustic English country kitchen in the UK by deVOL has Shaker style cabinetry, farm sink, and a serene palette. #englishcountry #countrykitchen #kitchendesign #rustickitchen #frenchkitchen #shakerkitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cotes-mill-showroom-devol-kitchens-7.jpg)
![Robert Frost quote EARTH IS THE RIGHT PLACE FOR LOVE on Hello Lovely Studio. #robertfrost #earthquotes](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0001-earths-the-right-place-for-love-robert-frost-hello-lovely-studio-love-quote.jpg)
![Hello Lovely's white European country modern French kitchen with Minuet Viatera quartz counters, farm sink, industrial cart, and marble subway backsplash.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/hello-lovely-studio-white-kitchen-oak-floor-marble-subway-backsplash-industrial-cart-stool-1.jpg)
Peace to you right where you are.
-michele
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