12 Home Remodels That Won't Go Out of Style

Hardwood floors work with almost any style — year in, year out. Given that flooring is the biggest expanse of product you’ll see in your new space, designer Christina Fluegge of Greige Design recommends going with a high-quality hardwood that allows you to refinish as time goes by rather than having to replace. “I currently have a love affair with a sandable engineered wood floor that’s hand-distressed and has a wax finish,” Fluegge says. “It’s simple to clean and takes scratches and regular everyday living in stride.”

Funny how as the years pass, older styles become ageless rather than looking dated. If you go with a look that has at least 50 years under its belt — say, midcentury modern — it won’t go stale, says designer Tatiana Machado-Rosas of Jackson Design and Remodeling. For the backdrop, it’s smart to create a simple and versatile setting: here, the clean lines of the fireplace and the neutral tones of the flooring allow the period furnishings to make the statement (and allow you to change your mind down the road).

“Keep your details simple and clean and use the trendy stuff in accessories that are easier to change out,” says Christina Fluegge, owner of Greige Design. “I like to combine neutral materials so that spaces have contrast and texture without too much going on, so there’s room for variety.” In this bathroom, Fluegge used beadboard on the walls in colors that contrast slightly with the white marble countertops and sinks below. Underfoot, she chose a porcelain tile that mimics vein-cut limestone, but has more texture so that it doesn’t get slippery when wet.

Japanese design sensibility is simple, tranquil and based on natural materials. Because it uses ancient principles of visual harmony, it isn’t likely to overstay its welcome in your home. This peaceful Zen bath created by Tenhulzen Residential is anchored by a Japanese soaking tub and fir woodwork.