Your home should feel fresh and inviting, but sometimes certain details can make it look older than it really is. These outdated elements often go unnoticed, quietly aging your space without you realizing it.
Identifying and updating just a few key features can instantly bring your home into the present and make it feel more modern. With a few simple changes, you can refresh your space and avoid the look that makes a home feel stuck in the past.
Old floral wallpaper with busy patterns
If your walls are covered in floral wallpaper with busy patterns, it might be making your home feel dated. These bold, repetitive designs can overwhelm a room and create a crowded atmosphere.
Today, people often prefer floral patterns as a single statement piece rather than covering entire walls. Choosing simpler, more subtle designs can help refresh your space without losing charm.
Updating or replacing old floral wallpaper with lighter, modern patterns can bring new life to your rooms while keeping a touch of personality.
Heavy, outdated drapes in dark colors
If your curtains are thick, dark, and heavy, they might be making your room feel smaller and older than it really is. Dark fabrics can block natural light and create a gloomy atmosphere.
You don’t have to give up on curtains, though. Choosing lighter materials like linen or cotton can brighten your space and make it feel more open.
Try to avoid heavy patterns or worn-out floral designs that can overpower your decor. Instead, opt for light, neutral colors that complement your room without dominating it.
Bulky, oversized furniture pieces
If your furniture feels like it takes up the whole room, it might be making your space look older. Large, heavy pieces can overwhelm your living area and make it feel cramped.
You don’t have to get rid of everything, but swapping bulky couches or coffee tables for sleeker, modern designs can refresh your home. Choose pieces that fit the scale of your room to open up the space and make it feel lighter and more inviting.
Orange-toned wood finishes on cabinetry
If your cabinets have a strong orange tone, it can make your kitchen or bathroom feel dated. Orange oak or maple finishes were popular years ago but often look old-fashioned today.
You don’t have to replace the cabinets to freshen up the space. Simple steps like sanding lightly and applying a stain-blocking primer can help reduce the orange hue.
Pairing cabinets with neutral wall colors, like soft grays or whites, can also balance out the warmth of the wood. Changing hardware or lighting might make a surprising difference too.