The Best Kitchen & Bathroom Materials for a Timeless Look

Here on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, where life revolves around sun, sand, and easy indoor-outdoor living we crave an aesthetic that is both relaxed and timeless.  When you’re planning a full renovation it’s important to choose materials that not only look beautiful but also stand up to the way we live. Kitchens and bathrooms are the true workhorses of the home, and a timeless design ensures they’ll feel fresh and functional for years to come. It’s all about making smart, stylish selections that blend coastal charm with lasting quality.

But let me clear before we go any further – timeless doesn’t just mean neutral! Believe me, almost every dated home I renovate has plenty of neutral colours – in fact all too often there are just too many samey neutral colours! While it’s important to have cohesive neutral undertones – these should serve as a backdrop to bring in your own personality. A timeless interior gives you the perfect canvas to play with colour and pattern as your style evolves.

At Orli Interiors, we believe in creating kitchens and bathrooms that balance beauty with practicality, while reflecting your personality and the way you truly live. So let’s dive into our favourite materials that promise enduring style—and why they work so well.

1. Natural Stone – The Elegant Workhorse

Few materials evoke luxury and longevity quite like natural stone. Whether it’s marble, granite, quartzite or travertine, stone brings a natural depth and texture that manufactured materials struggle to replicate.

• In Kitchens: Honed marble benchtops or a stone splashback can add instant charm. While marble can be a little high maintenance, it’s hard to beat its classic beauty. If durability is a concern, consider granite or quartzite which are resistant to scratches, etching, heat and stains.
  
• In Bathrooms: A floor-to-ceiling travertine or marble feature wall in your shower instantly elevates the space. Remember to re-seal it every 6 months.
  
• Pro tip: Opt for neutral tones like soft greys, warm beiges or creamy whites. These shades pair beautifully with everything from shaker cabinetry to modern black tapware. With this in mind it’s no wonder Taj Mahal quartzite (see left) has surged in popularity… Such a beautiful choice!

2. Timber – Warm, Textural & Ever-Stylish

Nothing softens a space and adds soul like timber. Whether it’s solid wood cabinetry or a good quality woodgrain laminate, this material has a unique way of making a space feel warm and grounded.

• In Kitchens: Go for timber veneer cabinetry or open shelving to add warmth to a contemporary space. The lighter tones of Oak and richer chocolate hues of walnut will continue to be long-time favourites in our homes.
  
• In Bathrooms: Timber vanities add an earthy, organic touch and are especially striking when paired with stone or matte tiles.
  

3. Ceramic & Porcelain Tiles – Stylishly Sturdy

Choosing tiles can feel totally overwhelming. Tiles are where function meets flair. With an endless variety of finishes and formats but ceramic and porcelain tiles are your go-to for achieving both beauty and durability to a timeless interior.

• In Kitchens: Subway tiles, square zellige, or larger format porcelain in neutral tones create a subtle backdrop without screaming for attention.
  
• In Bathrooms: Go tonal with layered neutrals, or play with textures like matt, gloss or a tactile handmade feel.
  

What to avoid: Busy patterned tiles that dominate the space—opt instead for something with texture or soft variation for a more timeless appeal. Equally important is to avoid plain white and plain grey tiles – this may feel like a safe option but will look instantly rather boring and will date very quickly. Opt for movement, texture and variable shading for interest and depth.

4. Matte Black & Brushed Metal Tapware

Tapware may seem like a small detail, but it can totally transform your kitchen or bathroom. For a look that transcends trends, brushed nickel, brushed brass, and matte black are excellent choices.

• Brushed Nickel: Understated and elegant. Great for both contemporary and classic interiors.
  
• Brushed Brass: Warmer than chrome but still refined. Adds a touch of luxe without overpowering the space.
  
• Matte Black: Sleek, modern and surprisingly versatile—especially in homes where you want a contrast point.
  

Design bonus: These finishes are more forgiving with water marks than traditional chrome—hello less cleaning stress! 

If you want to dive a bit deeper into other tapware finishes check out our blog here

5. Classic Joinery Profiles – Think Shaker or V-Groove

Joinery is a major visual element in kitchens and bathrooms, and opting for a classic style means your cabinetry won’t date in a flash.

• Shaker Style: Timeless, transitional and works in everything from coastal homes to Hamptons-inspired spaces.
  
• V-Groove Panels: Add character and texture without going full-on traditional. A great fit for beachside homes wanting that relaxed yet refined feel.
  

Top tip: Combine classic profiles with contemporary colours like sage, navy, or warm whites for a fresh take on tradition.

For a more sleek and contemporary aesthetic look no further than the skinny shaker – a timeless cabinetry profile option that works with a whole host of design styles.

6. Choose Hardware That Works as Hard as It Looks

When we talk about timeless design, it’s not just about what you see—it’s also about how your space functions day in and day out. Hardware might seem like a small detail, but it’s one of the most heavily used elements in any kitchen or bathroom. Choosing high-quality, functional hardware is essential to keeping your renovation practical, polished, and feeling brand new for years to come.

Think about soft-close drawer runners, full-extension slides, and hinges that won’t squeak or sag after a few years of use. Reputable brands like Blum or Häfele offer precision-engineered fittings that stand up to daily wear, and make a world of difference to the user experience. These aren’t just luxuries—they’re small details that protect your investment over time.

One smart splurge that’s worth considering is pocket door hardware. While the upfront cost can feel significant, the payoff is huge—especially in compact spaces where every centimetre counts. Pocket doors glide smoothly out of sight when not in use, keeping your layout clean and uncluttered. Investing in a quality system ensures they’ll operate flawlessly for years, without sticking, rattling, or needing regular adjustment.

Handles and knobs also deserve thoughtful attention. Choose pieces that feel good in the hand—solid, weighty materials like brushed brass, matte black, or classic stainless steel that not only last but age beautifully. These are the daily touchpoints in your home, and they should signal quality every time you reach for them.

In short, don’t skimp on the hardware. These often-invisible choices are what make a space feel elevated, intuitive, and easy to live in for the long haul.

7. Natural-Look Flooring – The Foundation of Timelessness

The right flooring sets the tone for your entire space. And while it needs to be durable enough to handle the chaos of family life, it also needs to look good doing it.

Engineered Timber offers the look of solid hardwood with better stability and sustainability. Oak tones are perennial favourites –  in pale or golden hues, or even a medium brown, they will never go out of style, and just like a favourite pair of jeans they go with everything! Personally I would  avoid any grey or taupe tones. 

Avoid overly glossy finishes—they show every footprint and smudge. Go matte or satin for a more forgiving, elegant look.

Final Thoughts: A Space That Lasts

Timeless design doesn’t mean boring or bland—it means thoughtful, considered choices that reflect your lifestyle and will age gracefully. At Orli Interiors, we specialise in blending practical functionality with down-to-earth elegance to create homes that feel truly “you”.

Whether you’re redesigning your kitchen, transforming your bathroom, or starting a whole-home renovation, our approach ensures every material and every detail is tailored to your life today—and tomorrow.

Looking to create a timeless kitchen or bathroom in your Northern Beaches home?
Let’s chat! Get in touch here

Because great design should always feel like home.