I’ve always enjoyed the dynamic nature of interior design, but I recently found myself in a bit of a design rut. I realized that my home was filled with dated decor pieces that didn’t reflect my current style. So, I embarked on a mission to swap out some of these outdated items for more modern pieces.
It made a world of difference! If you too are looking to refresh your living space and give it a contemporary twist, here are the 15 decor pieces I swapped for a more modern look.
1. Outdated Wall Art
There was a time when my walls were adorned with vintage oil paintings and antique frames. But as I embraced a more contemporary aesthetic, I felt these pieces no longer fit the bill. Instead, I opted for minimalist line art and abstract prints. These pieces, often monochromatic or with a restrained color palette, effortlessly ooze sophistication and modernity. Not only do they bring a sense of calm and simplicity, but they also effortlessly blend with most modern interior styles.
2. Old-fashioned Light Fixtures
Next on my swap list were the old-fashioned light fixtures. Gone were the heavy chandeliers and ornate lampshades, replaced by sleek pendant lights and modern floor lamps. These new fixtures come with clean lines and geometric shapes, which exude a distinctly modern vibe. Plus, they’re a great way to incorporate metallic accents into a room, particularly with finishes like brushed nickel or matte black.
3. Retro Wallpaper
Retro wallpaper, while nostalgic, can make a room feel dated. I decided to replace it with a fresh coat of paint in a neutral hue for a more current look. The beauty of going neutral is that it provides a versatile backdrop that allows your furniture and decor pieces to take center stage. If you still crave pattern, consider a modern geometric print or a subtly textured wall finish instead.
4. Traditional Area Rugs
My traditional Oriental rugs had a certain charm, but they didn’t align with my modern design goals. I swapped them for Scandinavian-style area rugs, beloved for their simple patterns and muted colors. Their understated elegance can help create a sense of serenity in your space, and they’re incredibly easy to match with modern furniture and decor.
5. Heavy Drapes
Heavy, ornate drapes can give a room a dated feel. I replaced them with lighter, more minimalist window treatments for a fresher look. Consider options like sheer curtains for a light, airy feel, or roller blinds for a sleek, functional alternative.
6. Bulky Furniture
I found that my large, bulky furniture pieces were making my space feel cluttered and outdated. In their place, I brought in sleeker, more streamlined furniture with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic. Not only does this make your space feel more open and airy, but it also aligns better with modern design principles.
7. Cluttered Shelves
Cluttered shelves filled with knick-knacks can feel chaotic and old-fashioned. I decided to declutter and display only a few carefully chosen items for a cleaner, more modern look. Remember, in modern design, less is often more.
8. Antiquated Mantelpiece Decor
The mantelpiece is often a focal point, and mine was filled with old family photos and trinkets. I chose to replace these with a few contemporary pieces like a minimalist clock and a modern art print for a more current feel.
9. Ornate Mirrors
Ornate, gilded mirrors can feel overly traditional. I swapped mine for simple, round mirrors with thin frames. They still offer the illusion of space and reflect light beautifully but in a more understated way.
10. Old Bedding
Old-fashioned floral bedding was swapped out for modern, monochromatic bedding. Not only is it more visually calming, but it also allows for more versatility when it comes to accent colors.
11. Traditional Dining Set
My traditional, ornate dining set felt out of place in my modern home. I replaced it with a sleek, mid-century modern set that feels much more current.
12. Dated Bathroom Fixtures
Nostalgic bathroom fixtures were replaced with modern, sleek fixtures. Think waterfall faucets and minimalist shower heads for a spa-like feel.
13. Overstuffed Pillows
Overstuffed, frilly pillows were swapped out for sleek, geometric ones. They still offer comfort but in a more visually appealing way.
14. Antique Display Cabinet
The bulky, antique display cabinet was replaced with simple, open shelving. It’s a great way to display your items without making the room feel smaller.
15. Vintage Clock
And finally, the vintage wall clock was replaced with a minimalist, modern wall clock. It still serves its function but in a more stylish, current way.
Swapping out these 15 items had a transformative effect on my living space. It now feels fresh, contemporary and truly reflective of my personal style. Remember, updating your home doesn’t have to mean a complete overhaul. Sometimes, a few strategic swaps can make all the difference.
