Home decor styles are constantly changing, and there’s no need to adopt every single trending look in your space – doing so will just look disorganized. However, you will want to pay enough attention to what is currently in style to make sure you avoid any outdated looks in your home. After all, no one wants their guests to feel like they’re stepping back in time when they walk through the front door.
Here, three interior designers highlight five home decor trends These are unanimously considered dated, so you’ll want to say goodbye to them as soon as possible and make way for new, contemporary aesthetics instead.
word mark
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Think about 10 or 20 years ago when words were signals. everywhereWord art, especially signs telling you to “live, laugh, love,” are no longer necessary, says Sally Lord, founder of Greyhunt Interiors. Interior designers suggest that by no means do you have to leave your walls blank (this isn’t a good look either), but instead, choose something that will express a little more style and personality.
If you want, you can even be a little literal and adopt the ethos of live, laugh, love on your own terms:
“Take a photo of yourself laughing with your loved ones and frame it as a reminder,” advises Lord.
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fake greenery
Gone are the days when you would see tons of fake plants everywhere, like you would have seen in the 1980s. While it’s okay to use fake plants in limited quantities, they shouldn’t be seen as the default choice. If you’re looking to fill an empty corner or countertop, try a low-maintenance real plant instead — there’s no need to put too much pressure on yourself to get a perfect green thumb instantly.
Not only are fake plants considered outdated, says Lord, but they can also be dust collectors.
“Depending on the size, it’s better to have an actual plant, even if you have to replace it a few times a year,” explains Lord.
all gray space
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Susan Knopf, founder of KNOF Design, urges saying ‘hi’ to colors other than grey.
“Grey-on-grey interiors are becoming defunct,” says Knopf. “This monochromatic trend often lacks warmth and personality, making spaces feel cold and uninviting.”
Sandra Asdourian, founder of Sandra Asdourian Interiors, agrees that using gray everywhere within a space can feel clinical or institutional. Instead, she recommends adding some beige tones to your gray space for a softer look.
Feeling a little more adventurous? Highlighting Pantone’s color of the year, Knopf suggests turning to warm neutrals, Mocha Mousseas a viable option.
She also recommends adopting artificial accents where possible. Knopf recommends using woven throws or natural wood elements to add warmth to your space that will create a cozy, layered look.
neutral farmhouse style
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farmhouse design Became popular in the early 2000s and hasn’t really gone anywhere since. Knoff comments that although she still appreciates elements of the neutral farmhouse look, she feels it can sometimes feel a little too predictable and impersonal.
“Rather than eliminate it completely, I say spice it up,” says the designer.
Some possible tips they suggest include weaving in old furnishings, adding some funky colors and prints to the walls, and more.
“Adding bold patterns, rich textures and personal mementos will create a space that is not only beautiful but uniquely yours,” says Knopf.
wallpaper borders
Popular in the 1980s and ’90s, wallpaper borders that once graced bedrooms, bathrooms and even living rooms no longer look so stylish, according to Asdorian.
“They look dated, especially when paired with bold patterns or bright colors,” she says. “A separate border can visually divide a room and disrupt the overall design.”
Are you looking to get visual interest on the walls in a more contemporary way? Effort Add wainscotingcrown, and base trim, the designer encourages.
