Best Materials for a Home that Gets Sexier Over Time
Photo by R. Bradley Knipstein from our San Jose project
If you’re investing in a renovation or in new furnishings for your home, you probably want the peace of mind that your design is going to last. Better yet, what if the materials you choose get even sexier as years pass?? Now, we’re talking!
Like a fine wine (a good one), there are several home materials that really do get better with age… if you know where to look. Today we're sharing 5 of our fave materials for creating a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe that will withstand the test of time. Can you guess them all?
1. Keeping It Classic with Brass
Photo by Thai Chu from our Alameda Project
Timeless, warm, and luxurious year after year? Ohhh, yes. Brass is one of those classic materials that don’t change much over the years. And when they do, they still look classic. Don’t believe me? You’ll even see suppliers selling “aged brass” or “antique brass” as a finish option. That’s proof enough!
To flawlessly incorporate this metal into any style of home, consider sprinkling it throughout different rooms. For example, drawer pulls, cabinet knobs, and fixtures are the perfect place to start. Bonus tip? Combine brass with sleek black for a touch of elegance that will never go out of style.
2. Use Marble to Add Instant Luxury
Photo by Thai Chu from our Alameda Project
Last month we devoted an entire article to the stand-out beauty of marble, and for a good reason. On its own, marble is practical, luxurious, and full of timeless elegance. Yes, exposure to acidic liquids or high heat can stain or etch the marble, but if you ask me, this doesn’t take away from its charm. Just look at Rome — their marble fountains and monuments still look good a thousand years later!
If you ask me, marble is the ultimate material for creating a sophisticated, ageless vibe…in any room. We especially love it in bathrooms, but it’s also the perfect choice for transforming your kitchen, entryway, fireplace…or anywhere…into a fab and enduring space that will stand the test of time.
3. Create a Lived-In Feeling with Linen
Photo by R. Bradley Knipstein from our San Jose project
When it comes to selecting a fabric that will last, the answer is durable, versatile, and high-quality linen. Derived from natural plant fibers, linen is effortlessly soft and breathable. Over time, it gets even softer, creating a cozy-chic, lived-in feeling…and who doesn’t want that?
We love linen for any variety of home furnishings, like upholstered chairs, sofas, or drapery. Linen’s highly absorbent texture also has incredible temperature regulating properties, making it a great choice for a coastal cool retreat.
4. Infuse Warmth with Natural Wood
Photo by Thai Chu from our Alameda Project
Rich, eye-catching, and organic, natural wood is a gorgeous way to infuse any space with an inviting warmth that says, “come on in and make yourself at home.” Once a living material, wood gradually changes and softens over time, especially when exposed to outdoor elements.
This look maintains its elegance and softness, and can even take on a “weathered” feel over time…which can be just as cozy and timeless. (Note: For best results, opt for teak or cedar when designing your dreamy outdoor space.)
5. Irresistibly Sophisticated Leather
Leather is a material that can last for years with care, becoming softer and richer in color over time. Whether you choose black, brown, or any shade in between, it can add warmth, sophistication, or a sultry vibe to your space. To incorporate this material into your home, we could look for furniture pieces made completely from leather or one with leather accents, like this drop-dead gorgeous chair from our Edgy Mediterranean Project.
Ready to create a home you’ll love for years?
It’s no secret — that’s what we do. Reach out to us here, and let’s create some design magic.
Xoxo,
Susie