The Most Timeless Design Styles From America's Last 250 Years

Traditional coastal home with white shiplap walls, large windows, a dining table with green chairs, a floral sofa with a wooden console and two lamps behind it and a green peacock chair in the corner. — (Image credit: Photo: Tim Williams Interiors: Liz Caan Styling: Lucy Bammam Architecture: Catalano Architects)

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The Timeless Decor Edit

July 4, 2026, marks the 250th anniversary of America's independence, so naturally, at Homes & Gardens, before we kick off the weekend celebrations, we wanted to look back at the last 250 years of U.S. design. Which styles and interior design trends have endured since the very beginning?

The evolution of the American home has, of course, changed dramatically over the past 250 years, but some styles have stood the test of time, adapting to modern lifestyles and preferences. Many of today's biggest design trends have roots in the past, and because the design world has spent much of 2026 looking back for inspiration, these classic styles have never felt more du jour.

These five defining looks designers agree best capture the past 250 years of United States history and how Americans have decorated – and continue to decorate – their homes.

1. Art Deco

Art Deco style living room with velvet orange armchairs, a brown daybed, a marble coffee table, a mustard rug, a large fireplace, and a burl wood dresser in the corner. — The Art Deco style still influences interior design today, as proven by this chic living room designed by Nina Farmer.

Art Deco design may have first begun over a century ago, but, like all truly timeless looks, its endurance is a testament to its style and luxury.

'I think Art Deco remains one of the most timeless design styles from the past 250 years,' says Boston-based interior designer Nina Farmer. 'At its best, it balances bold geometry with exceptional craftsmanship, creating interiors that feel both glamorous and enduring. Its influence continues today, particularly when paired with the quiet elegance of Swedish Grace, together creating spaces that feel sophisticated, layered, and never overly tied to a single era.'

While France is where the movement first began, it didn't take long for it to move further afield, soon influencing some of America's leading art, design, and architecture (think the Chrysler Building or the Empire State Building). In the interior design world, it's one of the few styles that still feels relevant, with designers relying on Art Deco decor for a chic, high-end feel. In today's homes, Art Deco is communicated through mirrored surfaces, sleek, angular lines, luxe fabrics like velvet or leather, and a moody color palette.

2. American Classic

Grand living room with white walls, high ceilings, arched doorways, a large sofa in the middle with an upholstered ottoman, two pale green armchairs, built-in bookshelves and a dining table — American Classic design nods to traditions of the past and the luxuries of the present, demonstrated by this grand living room designed by Liz Caan.

So many of America's iconic houses have that deeply familiar, classic interior that designers still recreate when designing a timeless, enduringly chic home for their clients.

'My thoughts are that American design has quite a few timeless design styles from Shaker to mid-century, postmodern, etc,' states Massachusetts-based designer Liz Caan. 'My favorite and the one I believe is the most timeless is New Traditional or American Classic, which is about classical architecture, clean lines, layered antiques, custom upholstery, collected art, and a sophisticated level of restraint.'

A mixture of Federal and classical Greek influences, American Classic design pays homage to the grandeur of the past (think mahogany furniture, ornate architectural details, quality fabrics, and decadent lighting) in the contemporary American setting. 'It borrows from many periods but assembles them in a livable and comforting way,' adds Liz.

3. New England Coastal

Hallway with white shiplap walls, a vintage grey armoire, a rattan white chair with a floral cushion on top, and a vintage painting of a boat with a silver shell sconce above it. — New England has a classic style that's so rooted in the past you'll easily recognize some details in 2026 that have been around for 250 years.

Shiplap walls, coastal motifs, and a classic blue-and-white color palette are just a few things that make the New England coastal style what it is today. A style that's evolved over the past 250 years, it's an aesthetic that nods to its environment (in this case, the coast) while paying homage to its deep-rooted history.

The coastal shingle style came later (popping up in the 1800s with the arrival of seaside resorts), proof that nautical design has (and still is) always resonated with homeowners. It's still popular today, with plenty of homes across the United States striving for that familiar, laid-back feel that still feels classic and enduring.

4. Arts & Crafts

A hallway carpet idea with Persian-style rugs on a wooden floor with white walls and glass arch over walkway — Loved for its artisanal emphasis, Arts & Crafts design has only grown better with age.

'Arts & Crafts has remained timeless because it valued quality over trends,' says Philadelphia-based designer Krystal Reinhard. 'It was about honoring handmade craftsmanship, natural materials, and historic integrity. The movement celebrated built-ins, handcrafted wallpapers, artisan tiles, and a deep connection to nature.'

Loved for its ability to combine the rustic and ornate, the Arts & Crafts revival trend is an appreciation for craftsmanship and all things artisanal. 'More than a century later, those principles are just as relevant as they were then,' adds Krystal, 'and those principles and core values are what I stand behind today. They set the foundation for my studio working on historic homes in Philadelphia.'

5. Shaker Style

A white country kitchen with wooden countertops and hanging baskets — The Shaker style continues to be popular in today's kitchen design.

The Shakers first came to America in the late 18th century, bringing with them a set of morals that emphasized quality, endurance, and handcrafts. Today's much-loved take on the Shaker aesthetic feels not dissimilar to the original style. The Shaker kitchen did (and still does) embrace earthy colors, rustic wooden furniture, and built-ins (today, this is best seen through simplistic kitchen cabinetry).

Unsurprisingly, the Shaker style remains iconic. With its emphasis on quality materials, endurance, and craftsmanship, it's a style that appeals to many of us looking to create a timeless home that stands proud despite years of use.

The Timeless Decor Edit

To Atlanta-based interior designer Nina Long, the most timeless American interiors are those that pull influence from everywhere and all periods. 'Rather than choosing one specific design style, I think the most timeless interiors are those that thoughtfully borrow from European traditions while reflecting the people who live there.'

'Whether inspired by an English country house, a Belgian farmhouse or a Parisian apartment, these spaces prioritize craftsmanship, antiques, layered textiles, and authenticity over trends. The common thread isn’t a particular look; it’s a commitment to quality, comfort and creating a home that feels collected over time.'

'To me, great American design isn’t about chasing what’s current. It’s about creating spaces with character that become even more beautiful as they age. The most enduring homes tell a story, feel deeply personal, and evolve naturally over the years. That’s what makes them truly timeless.'

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