There’s an old saying that goes, “what goes up, must come down.” And, oh boy, does this ring true in the world of interior design. Just as fast as a trend sweeps homeowners off their feet, it can become as outdated as last year’s runway looks. But that doesn’t mean we can’t take a moment to reminisce about those outdated home trends that we, at one point, couldn’t get enough of.
As interior designers and enthusiasts, we can’t help but scratch our heads when we think back on some of these decorating crazes. From borderline kitschy to those that were simply overused, let’s shine a spotlight on the decorating styles that have had their time in the limelight, and probably should stay there.
This isn’t just about laughing at past mistakes though, no siree. It’s about understanding where we went wrong and learning to make better decor decisions. Now, don’t get me wrong. Aesthetics are subjective, and if you’re still clinging onto a tacky decor trend because it makes your heart sing, by all means, carry on! But if you’re ready to break away from the crowd and march to the beat of your own drum, this list may help you. Check out these trends that have seen better days, from the kitchen to the living room to the bedroom. You’re in for a stylish revelation!
10 – The Reign of Rose Gold Furniture Details
For a good part of the last decade, rose gold took the spotlight as the ultimate go-to for furniture details. While it initially brought a sense of luxury and warmth, it’s safe to say that its ubiquity has somewhat dulled its charm. The thing is, too much of a good thing can turn bad, and that’s precisely what happened with rose gold. It became so widespread that its once unique appeal turned, well, ordinary. Plus, this particular shade can be limiting when trying to update or change your overall decor style. A suggestion for those still in love with metallics – consider opting for timeless classics such as brass or gold. They’re less likely to lose their appeal and offer a wider range of matching possibilities.
09 – Bizarre Case of Carpeted Bathrooms
Let’s move on to a trend that will make any hygiene-conscious person cringe – carpeted bathrooms. Sure, stepping out of the shower onto a warm, fuzzy carpet might feel nice. But think about the water soaking into the fibers, creating the perfect breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Plus, if you’ve ever had to clean a bathroom carpet, you’re well aware it’s no walk in the park. It’s time to say goodbye to this outdated home trend and hello to a more sanitary and practical alternative – tiles. They’re easy to clean, resistant to water, and can be just as cozy if you pair them with a washable bath mat.
08 – Matching Furniture and Furnishings: Variety is the Spice of Life
Remember when interior designers would insist on having matching furniture and furnishings throughout a room? Yes, there was a time when having a perfectly coordinated set was the pinnacle of interior design. Yet, this left homes feeling less personalized and more showroom-esque. A room with all matching furniture lacks visual interest, and let’s be honest, it’s a bit of a snore. In the spirit of breaking free from monotonous design, mix and match your furniture and furnishings. Play with different textures, colors, and styles to create a space that tells your story. After all, a home should be a reflection of the people living in it, not a page out of a catalog.
07 – Why Wall-To-Wall Carpeting Fails to Impress
Remember when every room in the house, save for the kitchen and bathroom, was draped in wall-to-wall carpeting? The coziness it promised quickly faded as homeowners realized the upkeep it demanded. Wall-to-wall carpeting traps dust and allergens easily, making it a hassle to maintain, especially for households with pets or those with allergies. Moreover, this outdated home trend lacks the chic, modern aesthetic most homeowners prefer these days. Instead, the trend has shifted towards hardwood floors with statement rugs. It’s more visually appealing, easier to clean carpets, and allows for a great deal of customization.
06 – Platform Beds: Time for an Elevation
Platform beds had a significant moment in home decor, especially in minimalistic design settings. They offered a sleek, streamlined look and, admittedly, a unique appeal. However, this trend has overstayed its welcome for several reasons. First, the low height of platform beds can be inconvenient and uncomfortable for many, particularly for those with mobility issues. Second, they lack the versatility and storage options offered by traditional bed frames. As people yearn for practicality in their living rooms and bedrooms, we’ve seen a shift towards elevated beds with built-in storage or space underneath for storage boxes.
05 – Mid-Century Decor: Why It’s Time for Something New
Mid-Century Modern is a term thrown around often in decorating styles. Characterized by clean lines, organic curves, and functional design, it’s been the go-to aesthetic for many homes in the past decades. But like all things done excessively, this trend too has become a bit of a bore. The design that once epitomized a forward-thinking, post-war America is now considered overused and overplayed. While we’re not saying to ditch every piece of mid-century furniture you own, we believe it’s time to spice things up a bit. Try mixing your mid-century favorites with pieces from different design periods to add depth and visual interest to your space.
04 – Vertical Blinds: An Uninspiring Window Dressing
The concept of vertical blinds might sound practical. They control the sunlight, ensure privacy, and were once a chic addition to any living room or office space. However, they’ve steadily climbed the list of outdated home trends. The problem with vertical blinds lies not just in their tacky decor, but in their practicality too. They tend to be noisy, easily tangled, and rather tricky to clean. Nowadays, homeowners prefer window treatment options that combine aesthetics with functionality, like plantation shutters or Roman shades. So, it’s time we say goodbye to vertical blinds and welcome more elegant and easy-to-maintain alternatives.
03 – Open Concept Floor Plans: The Need for More Walls
Once considered the epitome of modern living, open concept floor plans are now getting a fair share of criticism. While they do make a home feel spacious and allow interaction between different spaces like the kitchen and living room, the drawbacks are becoming apparent. Noise travels quickly without walls to block it, privacy is compromised, and it’s harder to hide messes. Plus, the lack of distinct rooms can make decorating a challenge. Many homeowners now crave designated spaces with a specific purpose, making open floor plans seem less appealing.
02 – Brown Color Schemes: Monotonous and Drab
Warm, cozy, and earthy – that’s how we might describe a brown color scheme. But let’s face it, it’s one of the outdated home trends that’s losing its charm. While brown and its varied shades can create a sense of comfort, they can also make a space look dated, especially when used in excess. Today’s decor styles lean more towards fresh, light color palettes that open up spaces, make them look larger, and inject a dose of modernity. Mixing neutrals with bold accent colors is the new norm. So, if your home is drenched in different shades of brown, it might be time for a color overhaul.
01 – Textured Ceilings: A Bumpy Road to Design Disaster
Often referred to as “popcorn ceilings”, textured ceilings were once a go-to for homeowners. It was an inexpensive and fast way to cover imperfections without a lot of effort. However, like a questionable fashion trend that leaves us wondering “what were we thinking?” textured ceilings are now firmly on the list of outdated home trends. Not only do they collect dust, making them a nightmare for anyone with allergies, but they also absorb light instead of reflecting it, making your living room or bedroom appear darker. The biggest problem? They can date a home quicker than most other decor styles. Now, smooth ceilings are in vogue—they offer a clean, minimalist aesthetic that appeals to contemporary tastes.
Let’s Embrace Change
So, there we have it—a rundown of the most overdone interior design trends that are ready to retire. If any of these features ring a bell, fear not! Your space can always be transformed. Just because something was once a home decor staple doesn’t mean it can’t be updated or replaced with more appealing options.
Now, remember, tastes vary and these trends may have been or may still be loved by many. However, being aware of the “overdone” can help us recognize when a trend has been overplayed, and perhaps inspire us to create a space that is genuinely ours—one that doesn’t simply echo the pages of a catalog.
It’s not about completely eradicating these trends but evolving with them, and more importantly, having fun in the process! After all, the key to great home decor is creating a space that feels uniquely you, reflects your style, and adapts to your lifestyle. So, what’s the next decor style you’re excited to try? Happy decorating!