Home decorating and design trends change as quickly as fashion. What was considered cutting-edge a few years ago can quickly become dated, leaving your home looking out-of-touch with the times. We all want our homes to be a reflection of our style and personality, but also to feel current and stylish.
There’s nothing worse than feeling like you’re living in a time warp! So, I’ve compiled a list of 10 outdated trends that I’ve ditched in favour of a more modern, contemporary home aesthetic. Let’s dive in!
1. Overdone Themed Rooms
Themed rooms were a big trend in the early 2000s, from beach-themed bathrooms to country-style kitchens. While they can be fun, they can also be restrictive and make your home feel dated.
Instead of committing to one theme, I’ve embraced a more eclectic style that allows me to mix and match different elements. For instance, I may still use a seascape painting in the bathroom, but pair it with modern fixtures and neutral tones to keep the space feeling fresh and current.
2. Wall-to-Wall Carpeting
Carpeting everywhere in your home isn’t just outdated, it’s also not very practical. It’s difficult to clean, traps allergens, and can easily get stained.
I’ve replaced my carpets with hardwood floors, which are timeless, easy to clean, and can be paired with rugs to add warmth and color. Plus, they add value to your home!
3. Popcorn Ceilings
Popcorn ceilings were popular in the 70s and 80s, but they can be a real eyesore today. Not to mention, they can also contain asbestos, which is a health hazard.
Removing popcorn ceilings can be a messy job, but it’s worth it. You can hire a professional, or do it yourself if you’re handy. The result is a smooth, modern ceiling that can make your home feel more spacious.
4. Cluttered Spaces
The trend of having lots of knick-knacks and clutter has thankfully gone out of style. Today, minimalism is in.
Get rid of items that don’t serve a purpose or bring you joy. This doesn’t mean your home has to be stark and sterile, just thoughtfully curated.
5. Heavy Drapes
Heavy, dark drapes can make a room feel smaller and dated. They block natural light and can make a space feel gloomy.
Replace them with lighter, airy curtains or blinds that let in natural light and make your room feel bigger and brighter. You can still choose curtains with a pattern or color, just make sure they complement your room’s décor.
6. Faux Finishes
Faux finishes, like faux marble or faux wood, can look tacky and outdated. Plus, they can be a real pain to remove or paint over.
Instead, opt for natural materials whenever possible. They’re more durable, timeless, and can actually add value to your home.
7. Overdone Millwork
In the past, more was more when it came to millwork. But heavy, ornate crown molding and wainscoting can make a home feel old-fashioned.
Today, less is more. Choose simple, clean lines for your millwork to give your home a more modern, streamlined look.
8. Matching Furniture Sets
Matching furniture sets can make a room feel stiff and unoriginal. They lack personality and can make your home feel like a showroom.
Mix and match furniture for a more eclectic, personalized look. You can still have cohesion by choosing pieces that complement each other, like a vintage coffee table with a modern sofa.
9. Wallpaper Borders
Wallpaper borders were a quick way to add a pop of color or pattern to a room, but they can also make a room feel dated and confined.
Instead, consider painting an accent wall or using a modern, graphic wallpaper on one wall to add interest without feeling overwhelming.
10. Overly Ornate Fixtures
Ornate, gilded light fixtures and faucets can give your home a dated, over-the-top look.
Rather, opt for fixtures with clean lines and neutral colors. They’ll give your home a modern, sleek look and won’t go out of style as quickly.
Remember, trends come and go, but your home should be a reflection of you. Choose what you love, and you can’t go wrong!
