Your home reflects your style, but some design choices that were once popular have fallen out of favor over time. Trends change, and what seemed fresh and appealing a few years ago might now feel outdated.
This article will help you recognize 12 home elements that were once sought after but are now considered obsolete, so you can keep your space current and functional. Knowing which features to update can save you time and money while improving your living environment.
White-on-white kitchens
If your kitchen is all white, you might find it feels less fresh than before. White-on-white designs were popular for their clean look, but many now see them as predictable and less inviting.
You can still love bright spaces but consider adding some color or texture to break up the whiteness. This helps create a warmer, more personalized kitchen that feels current.
Popcorn ceilings with asbestos risk
If your home has popcorn ceilings, especially if built before the 1980s, there could be asbestos in the texture. Asbestos fibers can be harmful when disturbed and inhaled.
You don’t need to panic, but it’s smart to have a professional test or remove it safely. Avoid scraping or sanding it yourself to reduce exposure risks.
Animal print décor
You might notice that animal print décor, once trendy, has lost some of its appeal. It was popular in the ’70s and often added a bold touch to rooms.
Today, many find it looks outdated or even cheesy when overused. However, if you use it sparingly, animal prints can still add a fun and unexpected accent to your space.
So, think about small touches instead of full-room patterns to keep your décor fresh.
Boho-themed interiors
If you’ve loved the Boho style, you’re not alone. It’s known for its mix of natural materials and colorful patterns.
However, this trend is fading because it often feels cluttered and dated now.
You might want to rethink heavy use of layered textiles, mismatched furniture, and excess accessories.
Simpler, cleaner designs are becoming more popular, making Boho look less fresh in today’s homes.
Shabby chic furnishings
If you love cozy, worn-in looks, shabby chic might have been your go-to style. It focuses on distressed furniture, soft pastels, and vintage accessories.
Lately, though, this trend feels less fresh and more dated. The look can come across as too busy or overly sentimental.
If your home still features shabby chic pieces, consider mixing in cleaner, modern elements to update your space without losing charm.
Rustic chic style
If you love cozy, worn-in looks, rustic chic used to be a top pick. But now, it can make your space feel dated.
Elements like shiplap walls, sliding barn doors, and matching wood furniture are less popular.
You might want to update your home with cleaner lines and lighter finishes. This will keep your space feeling fresh without losing warmth.
Eight-foot low ceilings
You might find eight-foot ceilings feel a bit cramped compared to newer homes. They were once standard because houses were smaller and rooms more compartmentalized.
Today, many people prefer higher ceilings for a more open feel and better air circulation. Advances in heating and cooling also support taller ceilings without losing efficiency.
If your home has these ceilings, using light colors and smart lighting can help make the space feel bigger.
Closed-off floor plans
If you’re used to walls separating every room, you might find closed-off floor plans feel a bit outdated now. They can make your home feel smaller and less connected.
However, these layouts once helped control noise and limited fire spread. Today, many people prefer open spaces, but some still appreciate the privacy closed-off rooms offer.
Outdated appliances
You might notice that older appliances often feel more durable than today’s models. Many new appliances are designed with cheaper materials and built to last around 5 to 7 years. This means you may find yourself replacing them more often than before.
Your newer appliances also include more complex electronics, which can make repairs harder and more expensive. While modern features are convenient, they sometimes come at the cost of long-term reliability.
Older single-pane windows
You might find older single-pane windows charming and original to your home. They’ve lasted many years but don’t provide good insulation by today’s standards.
These windows let heat escape easily, making your home less energy-efficient. If you want to keep them, you can improve performance by adding storm windows or weather stripping.
Maintaining the wood frame with linseed oil helps preserve the window’s life. However, replacing them with double-pane windows is often better for comfort and savings.
Word art wall decorations
Word art wall decorations were once popular for adding a personal touch to your space. Signs with words like “Love” or “Home” were common in many rooms.
Now, these pieces can feel outdated or overused. If you still want word art, consider choosing modern designs or subtle phrases to keep it fresh.
You can also mix word art with other decor, but avoid making it the main focus to prevent your space from looking cliché.
Heavy themed rooms
If your home feels weighed down by dark colors, heavy drapes, or bulky furniture, you might be living in a heavy themed room. These spaces can feel cluttered and make natural light harder to enjoy.
You don’t have to replace everything. Try lighter curtains or swap dark paint for softer shades. Small changes can brighten your space and create a more open, inviting feel.