Your home’s decor says a lot about you, including your sense of style and personality. Sometimes, certain decorating choices can unintentionally make your space—and by extension, you—feel dated or older than you want.
Understanding common decorating mistakes can help you refresh your home and create a more youthful, vibrant atmosphere. This article will guide you through five decorating errors that may be aging your space, so you can make simple changes that bring a more modern and lively feel to your home.
Using wall-to-wall carpeting with outdated patterns
When you choose wall-to-wall carpeting with old-fashioned patterns, it can quickly date your entire space. Patterns like busy florals or heavy geometric shapes often feel stuck in the past.
Instead, consider more modern options like subtle textures or simple designs that blend easily with your room.
Remember, carpet is a long-term choice. Picking a timeless look helps avoid feeling stuck with a style that ages your home.
If you want to add personality, try bold but current patterns, such as animal prints or abstract shapes. These can give your carpet a fresh, updated vibe without overwhelming your space.
Overcrowding spaces with excessive throw pillows
Too many throw pillows can make your space feel cluttered instead of cozy. When pillows are oversized or piled high, they can overwhelm your furniture and create a heavy, unbalanced look.
Mixing too many colors and patterns also distracts from your room’s style. Keeping pillows to a thoughtful minimum helps your space feel fresher and more inviting.
Choose a few pillows that complement your décor and give your room breathing room instead of adding unnecessary bulk. This simple change can make your space look more modern and well put together.
Displaying decades-old knickknacks and clutter
If you keep decades-old knickknacks out in the open without a plan, your space can start feeling tired and cluttered. You don’t have to get rid of these items, but think about how you display them.
Try grouping your knickknacks in one dedicated area to avoid an overwhelming look. Using shelves or shadow boxes can give your treasures a polished, intentional display.
Adding height with small stands or risers can make the collection feel more dynamic instead of chaotic. Keep the surrounding decor simple so your knickknacks remain the stars, not the clutter.
Relying heavily on beach-themed decor everywhere
Using lots of beach-themed items throughout your home can quickly feel dated. When every room is filled with seashells, anchors, or obvious coastal knick-knacks, the look can become overwhelming and predictable.
Instead, aim for subtle nods to coastal style rather than full-on beach clichés. Light colors, natural textures, and simple ocean-inspired accents can create a fresh, relaxed vibe without feeling overdone.
By avoiding the “beach gift shop” look, you keep your spaces feeling modern and inviting. A little seaside inspiration goes a long way in making your home feel calm and stylish, no matter where you live.
Choosing impractical open shelving in kitchens
Open shelving can look charming, but if it’s not practical, it can quickly feel cluttered and overwhelming. You might find yourself constantly dusting and reorganizing just to keep things neat.
If you store everyday items on open shelves, they may become greasy or dusty, which isn’t very convenient. Choosing shelves that don’t suit your lifestyle can make your kitchen feel less functional rather than stylish.
Think carefully about what you use daily and if open shelves really fit your routine. Sometimes, closed cabinets offer a cleaner, more organized look without the extra upkeep.