Your living room sets the tone for your entire home, but some décor choices can make it feel dated, cluttered, or less functional than it should be. From oversized furniture that overwhelms the space to worn-out accents that no longer serve a purpose, certain pieces are holding your living room back.
If you’re ready for a refresh, now is the perfect time to take a closer look at what needs to go. Here are 10 living room pieces to retire this year—and what to consider instead for a more stylish, comfortable space.
1. Large Sectional Sofas
Large sectional sofas have long been a popular choice for living rooms, especially for larger families or for those who entertain frequently. They offer ample seating and often double as a makeshift bed. However, they also take up a significant amount of space and can make a room feel crowded.
Now, with the trend leaning towards minimalism and functionality, these large pieces are taking a backseat. Interior designers are now recommending smaller, more versatile seating options that can be rearranged as needed. This allows for a more fluid and adaptable living space. Check out this resource for context on living room layouts.
2. Oversized Entertainment Centers
Oversized entertainment centers were once a living room staple, housing everything from the family television to DVDs, and often an array of knick-knacks. They were seen as a practical and attractive way to keep all entertainment needs in one place.
However, with the rise of streaming services and flat-screen TVs, the need for such large pieces has significantly decreased. Wall-mounted TVs and minimalist TV stands are now preferred for their sleek look and space-saving capabilities. See more on modern setups in this overview.
3. Coffee Tables
Many homeowners have long considered coffee tables as a living room necessity. They offer a convenient place to set drinks, books, or remotes, and they often serve as the focal point of the room.
Today, however, many designers are suggesting alternatives to the traditional coffee table. Opting for smaller side tables or ottomans can free up floor space and create a more open, inviting layout. Learn what defines a coffee table in this reference.
4. Gallery Walls
Gallery walls, collections of artwork or photographs, have been a popular way to personalize a living room and showcase one’s style. They can add color and interest to a room, making it feel more like home.
However, the trend is moving towards larger, statement pieces of art instead of these smaller collections. These larger pieces can create a focal point and simplify the overall design of the room. For broader design context, see Interior design.
5. Carpeting
Wall-to-wall carpeting has been a common choice for living room flooring for decades. It’s cozy, comfortable underfoot, and can add a warm, inviting feel to any space.
However, the trend has shifted towards hard flooring options like hardwood, vinyl, or tile. These options are seen as more modern, easier to clean, and can help to open up the space. Read more about materials in this flooring primer.
6. Recliner Chairs
Recliner chairs, with their ability to provide ultimate comfort and relaxation, have been a favorite living room item for many. They are often bought for their functionality rather than for their design appeal.
Nowadays, with a focus on aesthetics and space-saving, recliners are being replaced with more stylish and minimalist seating options.
7. Heavy Drapes
Heavy drapes have long been used in living rooms to provide privacy, block out light, and add a touch of elegance. They’re often chosen for their traditional appeal and the air of grandeur they can bring to a room.
However, with the current trend leaning towards natural light and minimalism, these heavy drapes are being switched out for lighter, sheer curtains or modern blinds.
8. Dark Paint Colors
Dark paint colors have often been used in living rooms to create a cozy, intimate atmosphere. They can provide a dramatic backdrop for furniture and artwork, and can help to hide dirt and stains.
However, lighter paint colors are now in vogue as they can make a room feel larger, brighter, and more inviting. Get foundational color concepts in color theory.
9. China Cabinets
China cabinets, once a common sight in many living rooms, were used to display fine china, crystal, and other valuable items. They were often purchased as a status symbol or inherited from family members.
These days, with a shift towards minimalist design and practical storage solutions, china cabinets are often seen as outdated and unnecessary. More modern alternatives, like open shelving or built-in storage, offer a fresher look while still providing display space. Learn what a hutch/china cabinet is in this entry.
10. Decorative Pillows
Decorative pillows have been a popular way to add color and texture to a living room. They’re often used on sofas, chairs, and even the floor to create a cozy, inviting space.
However, too many of these can make a room feel cluttered and overwhelming. Designers are now recommending a more minimalist approach, focusing on a few well-chosen, high-quality pillows.
