One of the best ways to add value to any duplex is to create a timeless design that exudes subtle confidence and sophistication, while also feeling welcoming and lived-in. This way, whether you’re building your forever home, or investing in a property development, you know that the home’s style will never fall out of fashion.

Here are five things to think about when designing your duplex.

Look beyond the trends

It can be tempting to follow what’s trending in interior design magazines, Pinterest or Instagram, but when it comes to home design, it’s worth investing in classic features that will remain appealing for years to come.

One element to consider is symmetry – our eyes are drawn to balance, so no matter what look you choose, a symmetrical space will always be pleasing to look at.

Consider introducing matching halves, or at least creating a mirror on each side of your room. You can then embellish this with soft furnishings, or other features that may be easier to adapt in the future.

Quality

One of the most effective ways to create a timeless duplex design is to invest in the highest-possible materials, furniture, fabrics and accessories. It will give any space a sense of character and sophistication and reduce the chance of anything looking shabby in the future.

Always preference texture over colour, as textures are much less likely to fall out of style. This is especially true if you opt for a high-quality natural material – they offer a classic look that will pair well with whatever decoration you choose to add. It will also ensure your duplex stands the test of time, whatever you (or your tenants) throw at it!

Looking forward

When you’re planning your duplex, take the time to consider how Australian lifestyles might shift over the next five to 10 years.

If you are building your own home, consider what your family may need as you grow – will you eventually need separate spaces for teenagers? Will you need a retreat for older generations? Taking this into consideration early in the design process guarantees your home is still working for you well down the track.

Recycle where possible

Creating a timeless look in your duplex is made all the easier when your design doesn’t adhere to any standout style in the first place. This is where recycling comes in – by mixing recycled finishes, furniture and features, you’ll create a unique design that can’t be ascribed to any particular period, or be reminiscent of a certain trend.

An antique piece of furniture against a white wall will look fantastic for years to come and always appear current, as will a vintage rug in a clean-lined room. Recycled materials are also a great way to blur lines between time periods – brick and timber are two great examples.
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If you’re thinking about building a duplex in Melbourne, get in touch with the team at Nicon Built Design + Build. We’d be happy to answer any questions you might have about the process and share our ideas for timeless design.