The best homes feel relaxed, laid back and effortless. These types of homes are always made up of humble materials which makes spaces feel lived-in.
Interior finishes are the materials that are fixed in place and they are the materials that set the tone for the rest of your home and although we have many options available to use today, but I believe there’s only a handful of timeless materials.
Below I go over 5 high quality and timeless materials that are worth investing in.
1. wood paneling
An alternative to drywall (which is a material that is most commonly used for finishing walls and ceiling) is wood paneling. This wall and ceiling finish adds character to a space. For a simple look select a straight cut style. If you would like a more detailed look then go with a v-grooved planks.
Wood boards can be installed on your walls and your flat or vaulted ceilings. If you wish to have more of a visual break for your eyes you can mix pine board walls with a drywall ceiling for example, or vice versa. See images above.
After installation, the wood can be painted. I usually recommend an off-white or light paint color to keep your space bright and fresh. Your walls and ceilings can all be painted the same color and finish, then moldings can be painted in a pearl or satin finish to create a slight contrast in your space.
2. Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood flooring is a classic material that has been used in homes long before our time and will continue to be used.
This material can be installed throughout your home. Hardwood floors are an initial investment, however it can last a lifetime. Wood also looks beautiful as it ages.
The finish I always lean towards is matte. This is the finish that will make the floors look most natural. A matte finish feels calming and compared to a glossy finish it doesn’t bounce light around in a room.
3. Stone Tile
Other than hardwood flooring, stone may be the only other material that can work in any room of your house as flooring. Since ceramic or porcelain tiles are durable and easy to clean it’s most often used in high traffic and wet areas such as entry ways/mudrooms, bathrooms and the kitchen.
Tile can be installed on walls too. It’s commonly used in bathrooms and as kitchen backsplashes.
There’s endless ways to finish your home with tile. The tiles come in different shapes and sizes, they can be printed or embossed and you can mix and match to create custom accents within a tiled space.
When possible, I recommend installing an under floor radiant heating system to add comfort to your tiled floors.
4. Wallpaper
This one is controversial… but I do think that wallpaper can be used in your home!
I always suggest completely covering all of your walls. Never just create one accent wall with wallpaper. That being said, you can wallpaper a ceiling to add drama to a space.
Make sure to add a molding to hide the wallpaper lines along the edge of the walls and ceiling, which will create a finished look. The best rooms to wallpaper are a small powder room, a closet or your foyer if it's a closed space.
5. Stone Countertops
Stone countertops bring a sense of elegance and natural beauty to a space.
For your kitchen and bathroom countertops the best option is a natural stone such as granite, marble or soapstone. Quartz is an engineered stone that is also very durable and it’s a great option that will be long lasting.
When choosing finishes for your renovation or new built project remember to think long term. Natural and quality materials are always best.
Need help selecting materials?
Contact me to learn more about my services an how I can help with selecting the right materials for your space.