Many homes still carry decor pieces from the boomer era that can unintentionally make your rooms feel cramped or smaller than they actually are. Recognizing which items contribute to this effect can help you create a more open, inviting space.
Understanding which boomer decor choices tend to shrink a room visually allows you to refresh your space while keeping what truly adds character. By making small changes to furniture, window treatments, and accessories, you can enhance your home’s natural light and flow without losing its charm.
Heavy draperies with swags, jabots, and valances
If you use heavy draperies with swags, jabots, and valances, your room can feel visually crowded. These layered window treatments add bulk and attract attention to the top of your windows.
Swags and jabots often come in thick fabrics that block light and make the space feel smaller. Valances add extra depth, which can overwhelm a room, especially if it’s already compact.
While elegant, this style tends to reduce the sense of openness. If you want your space to feel bigger, consider lighter, simpler window coverings instead.
Overstuffed floral sofas and armchairs
Overstuffed floral sofas and armchairs often have bulky shapes that can take up more space than needed. Their large cushions and rolled arms add to their size, making your room feel crowded.
The busy floral patterns draw attention, which can make your space seem visually cluttered. While they bring a cozy vibe, they might not suit smaller rooms well.
If you love florals, consider smaller-scaled prints or more streamlined shapes to keep your room open and inviting.
Richly patterned satin-embossed curtains
You might find richly patterned satin-embossed curtains in many boomer-era homes. These curtains often come in deep colors with detailed designs that add a formal touch to your room.
While they can look elegant, these heavy curtains sometimes make spaces feel smaller and less inviting. If you want to keep that vintage charm, consider lighter fabrics or simpler patterns to open up your room without losing style.
Wood paneling that darkens the room
If your room has dark wood paneling, it can make the space feel smaller and less open. The rich tones absorb light, which reduces brightness and can create a heavy atmosphere.
You might find your room feels more cramped because the dark color draws the walls inward. This effect is especially noticeable in rooms without much natural light.
To balance this, you can add lighter furniture and bright accessories. These help break up the darkness and keep your room from feeling closed in.