With the options of expensive appliances, custom cabinets and costly countertops we spend a lot of money on our kitchens. According to Houzz’s 2019 Kitchen Trends Report, US homeowners spend on an average of $11,000 on a kitchen remodel. To make sure all of the money isn’t creating a kitchen that we will want to update again in five years, the trick is to incorporate timeless kitchen design elements that won’t go out of style. By choosing features that stand the test of time, you’ll save yourself money (and more remodeling) down the line.

Neutral Paint Colors

The classic white kitchen is sometimes critiqued for being boring – but there’s one solid reason to opt for this color; it will never go out of style. According to the report, 43% of renovating homeowners opted for white cabinets. Not sure which shade of white to go for? There are some white paints designers swear by.

Shaker-Style Cabinets

Known for their simple design and recessed-panel doors, Shaker cabinets have been in style for more than 100 years. Shaker cabinets are popular in farmhouse kitchens, but they also work with a variety of home decor styles.

Drawer and Cabinet Organizers

Organization will never go out of style. And while features like built-in baking sheet dividers and pull-out drawers haven’t been around that long, when hidden behind unfussy cabinet fronts, these functional features are a must-have for timeless kitchens.

Vintage Appliances

There’s a reason the Smeg fridge is a classic kitchen appliance. While stainless steel and white appliances will always cycle in and out of fashion, appliances with the retro appeal don’t go through the same fluctuations in popularity. Brands like Smeg, Northstar, and Laconche are still making appliances with old-school charm.

Choose Natural Materials

Natural materials like wood and stone will ground the space and keep it classic. If you want a timeless kitchen, resist the urge to create an ultra-modern look full of shiny stainless steel and engineered materials.

White Marble or Butcher Block Countertops

White marble will always be an elegant choice for kitchen countertops, but if the maintenance and potential for staining has you worrying about its longevity, consider butcher block. The go-to choice for farmhouse kitchens, butcher block will wear beautifully over the years, and you can prepare food directly on it.

Subway Tile

Subway tile works with many different decor styles, and you probably won’t get sick of it. If you want a backsplash with staying power, skip the trendy metallic tiles, sea glass or bright geometric shapes and opt for something simpler.