Decorating your home is an exciting endeavor that allows you to express your personal style and creativity. However, while the world of interior design is full of endless possibilities, there are certain decorating trends that have gone out of style and can make your home feel outdated. Avoiding these common decorating mistakes can help ensure that your home feels modern, fresh, and inviting. Let’s dive into 11 common decorating mistakes that scream “outdated”, and how you can avoid them.
1. Overuse of Themed Decor
Themed decor can be fun in moderation, but when overused, it can make a room feel kitschy and dated. For example, if your entire kitchen is decked out in rooster decor, it may feel more like a 90’s country diner than a modern, stylish kitchen.
Instead, choose one or two themed items that you love and incorporate them into your overall design. This allows you to express your personal style without overwhelming the space. A rooster-themed cookie jar, for example, can add a touch of rustic charm to your kitchen without making it feel like a chicken coop.
2. Over-reliance on Matching Furniture Sets
In the past, matching furniture sets were a popular trend. However, this look can feel rigid and outdated in a modern home.
Instead, try to mix and match different pieces to create a more eclectic, personalized look. This doesn’t mean that everything has to be wildly different – in fact, having some common elements can help tie the room together. But by mixing different styles, materials, and colors, you can create a more dynamic and interesting space.
3. Faux Finishes
Faux finishes, like sponge-painted walls or fake wood paneling, were once popular, but now they can make a room feel dated and cheap.
Instead, opt for real, high-quality materials whenever possible. If your budget doesn’t allow for real wood flooring or marble countertops, there are many modern alternatives that can give you the same look without the high price tag.
4. Popcorn Ceilings
Popcorn ceilings were once a common feature in homes, but they’ve fallen out of favor in recent years. Not only do they look dated, but they’re also difficult to clean and can harbor allergens.
If your home has popcorn ceilings, consider having them removed and replaced with a smooth finish. This can give your home a more modern look and make it easier to keep clean.
5. Carpet in Bathrooms
Carpet in bathrooms was once thought to be a luxury, but it’s now considered a decorating faux pas. Not only can it harbor bacteria and mold, but it can also make the bathroom feel dated.
Instead, opt for tile or vinyl flooring in the bathroom. These materials are easy to clean, water-resistant, and give the space a modern, clean feel.
6. Overuse of Tans and Browns
While neutral colors are timeless, an overuse of tans and browns can make a space feel dull and outdated.
Instead, try incorporating more modern neutrals, like grays and whites, into your decor. These colors can make a space feel more open, airy, and modern. You can also add pops of color with accessories like throw pillows or wall art to keep the space from feeling too monochromatic.
7. Overly Floral Patterns
Floral patterns were once a popular choice for everything from wallpaper to upholstery, but they can now feel overly feminine and dated.
Instead, opt for more modern patterns, like geometric shapes or abstract designs. If you love florals, consider using them in smaller doses, like on a throw pillow or a piece of wall art.
8. Heavy, Dark Drapes
Heavy, dark drapes can make a room feel oppressive and outdated. They can block out natural light and make the space feel smaller.
Instead, opt for lighter, more sheer curtains that allow natural light to filter through. This can make the room feel more open and airy, and give it a more modern feel.
9. Oversized Furniture
Oversized furniture can make a room feel cramped and dated. Not only does it take up a lot of space, but it can also be difficult to move around.
Instead, opt for furniture that is proportionate to the size of your room. This can make the space feel more open and inviting, and also make it easier to rearrange furniture if you decide to change the layout.
10. Too Many Knick-Knacks
While it’s great to showcase your personality through your decor, having too many knick-knacks can make a space feel cluttered and outdated.
Instead, opt for a few carefully chosen pieces that you really love. This can make the space feel more curated and personal, and also make it easier to keep clean.
11. Wall-to-Wall Carpeting
Wall-to-wall carpeting was once a popular choice for homes, but it can now feel dated and hard to clean.
Instead, consider opting for hardwood or laminate flooring, which can add a touch of elegance and modernity to your home. If you love the soft feel of carpet, consider using area rugs to add warmth and comfort to your space.
