Timeless or Trendy Colors
The following article “Timeless or Trendy” written by Vanessa Vacek of Remodelers of Houston was published online and in print in the July 13, 2025 Sunday edition of the Houston Chronicle.
Color is one of the most impactful choices you’ll make during a home remodel. It influences mood, enhances design features, and sets the tone for how your space feels day to day. But when it’s time to choose a palette, many homeowners face the same dilemma: should you stick with timeless colors that last, or embrace trendy shades that make a statement?
The Case for Timeless Colors
Timeless colors are called that for a reason. Shades like warm whites, soft grays, beiges, navy, and charcoal have been design staples for decades. These colors work beautifully across different styles—whether your taste leans modern, traditional, coastal, or transitional. They’re dependable, adaptable, and have broad appeal, making them a smart choice for long-term satisfaction and resale value.
Using timeless hues in your main design element such as walls, cabinets, flooring, and large furniture gives your remodel a strong, flexible foundation. It’s much easier (and less expensive) to change out trendy accessories or decor than it is to repaint an entire home or replace permanent fixtures.
The Appeal of Trendy Colors
That said, trendy colors are what keep a space feeling fresh and expressive. Each year, paint brands release their “Color of the Year,” often inspired by social shifts, fashion, and culture. In 2025, earthy tones like mocha, sage green, and cinnamon slate are gaining popularity for their warmth and connection to nature.
Incorporating trendy colors is a great way to inject personality into your home, especially in areas like powder rooms, backsplashes, accent walls, or built-in shelving. Even a bold-colored front door or statement piece of furniture can give your remodel a modern edge without overwhelming the space.
Striking the Right Balance
So, how do you choose? The answer often lies in balance.
Use timeless colors as your base, those long-lasting neutrals and classic shades that will stay relevant for years. Then, layer in trendy accents through paint, artwork, textiles, or decorative pieces that can easily be updated as your style or trends evolve.
This strategy gives you the best of both worlds: a home that feels stylish and current, yet grounded and timeless.
Final Thoughts
Color trends come and go, but your home is something you live with every day. When remodeling, it’s natural to be drawn to the latest popular shades you see in magazines or design shows. Trending colors can make a space feel fresh and up to date. However, before fully committing to them, it’s worth considering whether those colors align with your long-term taste and how you actually live in the space.