Your home should feel like a reflection of your style, but sometimes certain decor items can hold you back without you even realizing it. Over time, trends change and what once felt fresh can start to make your space look outdated or mismatched.
Identifying and updating these dated pieces can instantly improve the overall look and vibe of your home. By recognizing the decor that no longer serves your aesthetic, you can create a more cohesive and contemporary environment that feels just right for you.
Floral patterned sofas from the ’80s
If you have a floral sofa from the ’80s, it might be time to rethink it. These sofas often feature dark, subdued patterns that can make a room feel outdated.
You don’t have to replace it completely. Consider reupholstering with a solid, neutral fabric to give your space a modern vibe. Adding simple pillows or throws can also help balance the look without overwhelming the room.
Wall-to-wall carpet in living areas
If your living room still has wall-to-wall carpet, it might feel a bit dated. This type of flooring can trap dust and show wear quickly, especially in high-traffic spots.
You don’t have to remove it right away. Layering area rugs on top can modernize the look while adding comfort and style.
Consider swapping it out over time for hardwood or vinyl. These options are easier to clean and can brighten your space.
Plastic furniture covers
Using plastic covers on your furniture might seem practical, but they tend to trap moisture. This can cause mildew and damage the fabric underneath over time.
Plastic covers also create a stiff, uncomfortable look that makes your space feel less inviting. Removing them allows your furniture’s natural texture and style to shine through.
Letting your furniture breathe helps keep it in better shape and adds a warm, lived-in feel to your room.
Small rugs that don’t anchor the furniture
When you use a small rug that’s too tiny for your space, it can make the room feel disconnected. Rugs are meant to tie your furniture together visually, so a small one often falls short.
Try choosing a larger rug that fits under the front legs of your main furniture pieces. This creates a cohesive look and makes the space feel balanced. If you really love your small rug, consider layering it over a bigger, neutral base rug.
Word art decor like ‘Live, Laugh, Love’ signs
If you have word art signs with phrases like “Live, Laugh, Love,” it might be time to reconsider them. These signs were popular once but now often make spaces look outdated.
You might find that such decor feels generic and doesn’t add much personality to your home. Swapping them for artwork that reflects your style can refresh your space easily.
Overuse of midcentury modern furniture pieces
You might love the sleek lines and timeless appeal of midcentury modern furniture. However, filling your entire space with just these pieces can make your home feel less personal and a bit repetitive.
Mixing in different styles can add more depth and character to your rooms. It keeps things fresh without losing the charm of your favorite midcentury finds.
Dated wallpaper with busy prints
If your walls are covered in wallpaper with small, busy prints, it might be time for a change. These patterns can make your space feel cluttered and outdated.
Choosing simpler wallpapers or painted walls can open up your room and create a fresher look. You don’t have to remove all patterns, but opting for subtle designs will help modernize your space.
Heavy, dark wood furniture
If your furniture is mostly dark wood, it can make your space feel smaller and heavier. This style was popular in past decades but now often feels a bit outdated.
You don’t have to replace everything. Lightening the look with paint or staining can brighten your room and refresh the vibe. Try mixing in lighter pieces to balance the heaviness.
Outdated ceiling fans with bulky designs
If your ceiling fan looks large and bulky, it might be clashing with your room’s style. These older designs tend to feel oversized and can make your space look dated.
You can freshen things up by choosing minimalist fans or switching to sleek, modern light fixtures. This simple change can instantly improve your room’s overall look.
Cluttered shelves without cohesive styling
If your shelves are packed with random items, it can quickly feel messy and overwhelming. You want each object to have a purpose and fit with a common theme or color palette.
Try mixing different shapes and textures, but keep a balanced look. Leaving some empty space helps your shelves breathe and avoids visual chaos.
Adding a few well-chosen accents like plants or metal pieces can bring life without cluttering. Remember, less can be more when styling shelves.
Outmoded brass light fixtures
If your brass light fixtures look dull or overly ornate, they might be dragging down your room’s style. These fixtures can feel stuck in the past, especially when paired with modern furniture or clean lines.
Swapping them for simpler, matte finishes or sleek designs can instantly refresh your space. You don’t need to remove all brass, but updating bulky or shiny pieces helps keep your lighting current and inviting.
Bright neon or overly bold color schemes
Using bright neon or very bold colors can quickly date your space if overdone. These colors demand attention but can overwhelm a room when not balanced well.
Try pairing neon accents with neutral tones to keep your design fresh and lively without feeling chaotic.
Bold colors work best in small doses, like on a single wall or through accessories, to add personality without overpowering your aesthetic.
