Decorating your home is akin to painting a personal portrait – it’s an expression of your tastes, preferences, and personality. However, certain design elements can inadvertently age your home, making it look outdated rather than chic. These trends might have been popular in the past, but today they can detract from your home’s appeal. Let’s take a look at 11 decorating trends that can instantly make your home look dated and explore some modern alternatives instead. Remember, it’s always about balancing personal style with contemporary aesthetics.
1. Overuse of Shabby Chic Decor
While the shabby chic style was all the rage a few years ago, an overuse of this style can make your home feel stuck in a time warp. It’s not about completely abandoning this style, but rather integrating it with more modern elements. For example, instead of a full shabby chic living room, you could incorporate a shabby chic coffee table or lamp into a more contemporary setting.
2. Wall-to-Wall Carpeting
Wall-to-wall carpeting was once a sign of luxury, but it can make your home seem dated now. This doesn’t mean you should abandon rugs and carpets altogether – they can add warmth and texture to a room. Instead, consider using area rugs on a hardwood or tiled floor. They can define spaces in open concept homes and are much easier to clean and replace than wall-to-wall carpeting.
3. Popcorn Ceilings
Popcorn ceilings, also known as cottage cheese ceilings, are a relic of the past. Not only do they make a home look dated, but they can also be a pain to clean and maintain. A smooth, painted ceiling can give your home a fresh, contemporary look. If you’re feeling adventurous, you might even consider adding some architectural details like crown molding or wooden beams.
4. Excessive Use of Chevron Patterns
I’m sure we’ve all gone through a phase where we were obsessed with chevron patterns. Heck, I had chevron throw pillows, curtains, and even a rug at one point. But overdoing it with this pattern can make your home feel stuck in the mid-2010s. Try using geometric patterns or solid colors instead for a more timeless look.
5. Dated Wallpaper Prints
Old-school floral, paisley, or bird-themed wallpapers can make any room look like it’s straight out of a 1980s sitcom. Wallpaper isn’t inherently bad, but it’s crucial to choose modern, tasteful prints. Think geometric patterns, subtle textures, or even a bold, graphic mural.
6. Oak Wood Cabinets in Kitchens
Those golden oak cabinets that were so popular in the 90s? They can make your kitchen look decades older than it is. Consider painting your cabinets a fresh white or a cool gray for a more contemporary look. If you’re not into the idea of painting your wood cabinets, a darker stain can also modernize your kitchen.
7. Vertical Blinds
Vertical blinds, particularly those made of plastic, can make your home feel like an outdated office space. Instead, consider using roman shades or drapes for a softer, more sophisticated look. If privacy is a concern, cellular shades or wood blinds can be a great modern alternative that still allows plenty of light in.
8. Tuscan-Style Home Decor
The Tuscan style, with its warm colors and rustic finishes, was all the rage in the early 2000s. While it can still be charming in small doses, a home entirely decorated in this style can feel dated. Try blending the Tuscan style with more contemporary elements, such as sleek furniture or modern art, for a more balanced look.
9. Old-School Bathroom Tile Colors
Remember those pastel pink, blue, and green tiles that were so popular in the 50s and 60s? They can make any bathroom feel like a time capsule. Instead, opt for more timeless colors like white, gray, or black. And if you’re craving a pop of color, use accessories like towels or a bath mat instead.
10. Heavy and Dark-Colored Curtains
Heavy, dark-colored curtains can make a room feel smaller, darker, and more dated. Light, airy curtains can make a room feel larger and brighter. If you need to block out light, consider using blackout curtains in a neutral color or installing a blackout liner behind lighter curtains.
11. Cluttered Spaces and Excessive Decorations
Last but not least, cluttered spaces can make your home feel dated and chaotic. Instead, aim for a more minimalist approach with fewer, more meaningful decorations. This doesn’t mean your home has to be stark and sterile – just remember that sometimes, less is more.
Revamping your home’s decor doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. Small, thoughtful changes can have a big impact, turning your home from dated to timeless. For more inspiration, check out this list of design choices that will never go out of style and these additional tips on updating your home decor.