The Seemingly Classic Home Design Trend That's On Its Way Out

When it comes to home design, being a one-style wonder is quickly becoming a thing of the past. If you're wondering how to choose the perfect design style for your space, the good news is you don't have to pick just one! Beth Diana Smith, owner of Beth Diana Smith Interior Design, spoke exclusively with House Digest, giving her advice on why this trend is dying out. "Using one style throughout an entire home is like putting yourself in a box, almost like saying you are one-dimensional or can only live one way instead of being a complex human who can love various styles and want to do various things." Instead, she recommends embracing the mix, celebrating your individuality, and letting your home tell the full story of who you are — one eclectic corner at a time.

When designing a home, Smith believes the style can vary from room to room "within reason," ideally with a unifying element in the shared spaces to create cohesion. However, when it comes to bedrooms, she encourages her clients to fully embrace bold self-expression. Her preference? "Homes that reflect people's lives, preferences, and dreams versus a [single] design aesthetic."

When every room is the same style, your home flows effortlessly — but at what point does it start to feel like déjà vu? Designer Beth Diana Smith, who spoke exclusively to House Digest, doesn't recommend choosing just one style. "I can't think of one [pro]," she said. It can create a home that is "one-dimensional, boring and can easily lack visual interest from room to room after time passes." Instead, she encourages homeowners to mix styles and create spaces that feel dynamic, personal, and full of character.

Blending different styles throughout your home allows each space to reflect the unique personality and needs of the people who use it. "For example, let's say the public spaces of your home (living room, dining room, foyer, kitchen, powder room, etc.) are a maximalist style with cultural influences but your master bedroom is a minimalist retreat while your teenage son's bedroom is basketball theme done in a very modern way. The idea is that the room(s) best fit the person(s)," Smith explained. After all, personalized touches are the easiest way to help a modern home feel cozy.

Developing your personal interior style starts with reflecting on what truly speaks to you. In our exclusive chat, Beth Diana Smith recommended thinking about what makes you feel at home. "Do not focus on a style for your home, focus on incorporating things that you love, such as color, pattern, travel influences, anything that is a reflection of you and what you love to do," she shared. "Love to read? Create a library room or area that highlights books with a reading nook that is layered for comfort. Love to travel? Hang pieces from your travels as artwork as single pieces or create a gallery wall." 

To create a layered and curated look for your home, mix fabrics and patterns, then add artwork and accessories that carry on the theme. In addition, don't be afraid to be bold. Timeless style doesn't have to mean boring — because, let's face it, your home should feel like you, not a showroom.