I recently read an article in the New York Times on design time capsules. Specifically, it talks about homes built and furnished in the 1950's, 1960's and 1980's that remain untouched. If you've house-hunted in established neighborhoods, you've likely encountered one or more these such homes. It got me wondering what about this decade will be "the early 21st-century equivalents of the conversation pit and the avocado refrigerator" (writer Steven Kurutz suggests garage-size family rooms and stainless steel appliances) and whether or not they should be avoided altogether.

Here's a look at some styles we're seeing over and over again, weigh in and let us know what you feel is "so over" and what you think is here to stay.

A quick look around blog-land reveals that many of the design-obsessed are smitten with white kitchens. This one, published in Sunsetmagazine, perfectly illustrates the kind of kitchen that has so many -- myself included -- swooning: white, Shaker-style cabinets, marble counter tops, stainless-steel appliances (restaurant-grade, at that), open-shelving, and vintage-style plumbing. Add white subway tile and it is the stuff kitchen dreams are made of. In this case, the "trends" are all well-established -- even classic -- so what do you think? Will we one day look at this kitchen and think it is "so 2009," or can it stand the test of time?

The other end of the spectrum is a kitchen outfitted with wood-toned cabinets and, you guessed it, granite. This kitchen might be sleek (like this one, featured in Southern Living) or have a more traditional feel. Personally, I think this kitchen will more likely look dated, but maybe you disagree. Perhaps the sheer practicality of granite counters will keep them around.

As spa experiences become more and more accessible, more and more people seem to want to bring the spa home. Thus, the "spa bathroom" is born (this one is from Coastal Living). Features might include vessel-style sinks, mosaic tiles, generously-sized bathtubs and shower stalls, color schemes reminiscent of the sea, and multi-head showers. I can definitely see the appeal, but is this the pink bathroom of this decade?

Another trend in the bath is the use of vintage-style fixtures. Pedestal sinks, claw-foot-tubs, beaded board, exposed plumbing, and polished nickel finishes all lend a cottage-feel to a bath and are popular in both historic homes and newer construction. Again, many of these elements are not new, but their resurgence could garner them the label of being purely a trend, thus the possibility of finding them on the "out" list. (This bathroom was published in Cottage Living).

Open floor plans (like this one from Southern Living) are definitely new, and from my experience, you either love them or hate them. What used to be a purely utilitarian space -- the kitchen -- is now flaunted in the heartof a home and is often attached to the main living space. This is certainly a product of a more casual way of living where meals are eaten from stove to table (or sofa!) and the dining room is often only used on "special" occasions, or even eliminated completely. While I love the cozy rooms of a classic four-square Colonial, I don't see this "trend" heading out any time soon. Though it certainly presents some decorating challenges, it just seems to fit the way most people live today.

What do you think? Will any (or all) of these design elements make us cringe in 15 years? And if you love them now, do you even care?