15 Decorating Trends That Can Cheapen the Look of Your Home
Certain décor choices can unintentionally make your space look stuck in the past. Paying attention to fading trends can help keep your home feeling inviting and up to date.
This guide covers common design elements that may need a refresh so your home stays stylish and welcoming.
Overused Shag Carpets
If you’re still holding onto shag carpets, it might be time for a refresh. These thick, fluffy rugs were popular decades ago, but now they can make your room feel stuck in the past.
Shag carpets tend to trap dirt and show uneven wear, which makes them harder to maintain.
Switching to hardwood floors or low-pile area rugs can instantly modernize your space. If you love softness underfoot, consider a sleek, contemporary rug instead of shag.
For more on why shag carpets feel dated and what to try instead, see this guide on outdated home trends.
Chunky knit throws can quickly date your space if overused or too bulky. Their oversized texture was a huge trend, but now simpler, sleeker throws are preferred.
If you love the look, choose more subtle designs or natural materials like wool or organic cotton. This keeps your décor warm without feeling stuck in an old style.
For fresh ideas on styling these throws, check out cozy chunky knit blanket tips.
Wallpaper Borders
Wallpaper borders were once a popular way to add detail to walls, but today they can make your space feel outdated. These borders often create a busy look that can clutter your room visually.
If you want a fresher vibe, consider removing wallpaper borders and opting for clean, simple walls instead. This change can open up your rooms and make them feel more modern.
Some designers suggest using borders thoughtfully as an accent. Keep the patterns minimal and avoid overly busy designs to keep your space feeling current.
Learn more about why wallpaper borders may be out of style at HGTV.
If your living room still features perfectly matching furniture sets, it might be time for a refresh. These coordinated sets can make your space feel a bit cookie-cutter and less personal.
Mixing different styles, colors, and textures lets you create a space that truly reflects your personality. Pair a vintage chair with a modern sofa or add a quirky side table for interest.
Heavy Drapes with Valances
Heavy drapes with matching valances might be weighing down your space. These bulky window treatments can block natural light and make your room feel smaller and darker.
Switching to lighter curtains or sheer fabrics can instantly brighten your room. You can still enjoy valances, but choose modern fabrics or patterns that complement your curtains instead of matching them exactly.
For more on fresh valance ideas, you can explore modern valance styles.
Laminated Wood Flooring
If your laminated wood flooring looks dated, it might be time for an update. Older laminates often have narrow planks or repetitive patterns that don’t feel fresh anymore.
Wide plank laminate flooring is a modern option that mimics hardwood but offers a more spacious, updated look. Choosing warmer, woodsy tones instead of grays or overly white finishes can make your space feel cozy and current.
Avoid overly shiny or plastic-like laminates. Instead, opt for textured finishes that resemble natural wood for a more authentic and stylish appearance.
Overly Glossy Paint Finishes
Walls or furniture with an excessively shiny, reflective surface might need a rethink. Overly glossy paint finishes can feel artificial and overwhelming, making your space less inviting.
While gloss can add a modern touch, too much can highlight imperfections and create glare. Instead, consider balanced finishes that add subtle texture and warmth.
Faux Brick or Stone Walls
Spaces with faux brick or stone walls from past decades can feel outdated and artificial. These walls were once popular for adding texture but are now less favored.
Replace them with real stone or a more subtle wall treatment. Modern designs favor natural materials or sleek, clean surfaces instead.
Faux stone panels can work if carefully chosen for a fresh, authentic style. Otherwise, they risk making your room feel stuck in the past.
Excessive Open Shelving
Too much open shelving in your kitchen or living area can make your space feel cluttered and chaotic. While open shelves can show off your favorite items, moderation is key.
Try mixing closed cabinets with a few carefully styled open shelves. This balance helps keep things tidy and visually appealing.
Brass Fixtures Everywhere
A home filled with brass fixtures might feel dated. While brass had its moment, it’s now often seen as outdated by many design experts.
Mixing in other finishes can refresh your space. Matte black or brushed nickel offer good alternatives that are more modern.
Small brass accents can still work if balanced well. Avoid overdoing it to keep your home feeling current.
For more on why brass is falling out of favor, check out Good Housekeeping.
Matchy-Matchy Furniture Sets
Mirrored Furniture Pieces
Mirrored furniture can instantly date your space if not used thoughtfully. These pieces were once very popular but now often feel stuck in past decades.
Mirrored surfaces attract fingerprints and smudges, making maintenance tricky. Overuse can also create a cluttered or overly flashy look.
If you want to include mirrored furniture, use it sparingly and in smaller functional pieces like nightstands or vanity desks. This adds a touch of elegance without overwhelming your room.
Pop Art Wall Decals
Bold pop art wall decals from years ago can now feel outdated and overly busy. These colorful stickers once brightened rooms but may not fit modern tastes.
Instead of loud graphics, try more subtle or textured wall accents. This gives your space a fresher, more modern vibe.
For ideas on updating your wall decor, look into the latest trends in wall decals and art. Discover fresh wall decal options that match today’s aesthetics.
Excessive Use of Chevron Patterns
Spaces filled with chevron patterns on walls, rugs, and furniture can feel overwhelming. The repetitive zigzag design can easily dominate a room, making it look busy.
Using chevron sparingly, like on a single accent piece, helps keep your space fresh. Too much can create visual clutter and take away from your home’s overall calm vibe.
Tassel and Fringe Accents
Tassels and fringe used to be a go-to for adding texture and charm. But now, their overuse can make a space feel stuck in the past.
If your pillows, curtains, or lampshades are covered in these details, it might be time to rethink. Today’s design favors cleaner lines and simpler textures.
Mass-Produced Word Art
If your walls are covered with generic word art, it might be time for a change. This trend has become very common and can make your space feel less personal.
Designers in 2025 are moving away from mass-produced pieces. They prefer artwork that tells a story or holds meaning for you.
Chunky Knit Throws
These are a great, versatile add on to any room. They make the room look cozy and add great textures to any room.
They’re also handy for those cool fall nights and dark wintry evenings.
