Has your home flooring become a time capsule of yesteryears? With trends constantly evolving, certain flooring styles can instantly age your home, transforming it into a relic of its time rather than a cozy, inviting space.
Whether it’s the remnants of the 70s shag carpet or the glossy laminates of the 90s, some styles just scream outdated. Fear not! With a little humor and some practical advice, we can guide you through updating these tired floors into something fresh and contemporary. Here are 25 flooring styles that are ready for a makeover.
1. Shag Carpet
Oh, the shag carpet—a relic of the 1970s that was all about texture and bold colors. While it might bring back memories of disco nights and bell-bottoms, it’s not winning any awards in modern design. Shag carpets are notorious for trapping dust and being a nightmare to clean. Consider replacing it with a sleek, low-pile carpet or hardwood floors that offer a timeless appeal. Say goodbye to the fuzz and hello to a floor that doesn’t need its own grooming tools. It’s a small change with a big impact.
2. Linoleum Flooring
Linoleum floors had their heyday, especially in kitchens of the 1980s. But nowadays, they tend to curl at the edges and wear unevenly. The once-popular patterns now just seem tired. If you’re still walking across linoleum, think about upgrading to luxury vinyl tiles or ceramic tiles.
They provide durability and a modern look without breaking the bank. Plus, they’re far more appealing to potential buyers. It’s time to roll up that linoleum and step into the 21st century with style and practicality.
3. Parquet Flooring
Parquet flooring was a hit in mid-century homes, bringing an air of sophistication with its intricate patterns. But today, it feels a bit too fussy and outdated. If your parquet is looking tired, sanding it down and refinishing can breathe new life into it.
Alternatively, replacing it with wide-plank hardwood can modernize your space. The wider planks offer a sleek, open feel that complements contemporary interiors. So, let’s swap the puzzle-piece look for something streamlined and chic.
4. Glossy White Tiles
Remember those glossy white tiles that once made bathrooms look pristine? Well, now they just emphasize every speck of dirt. The high shine is no longer in vogue, and it can feel sterile rather than inviting. Consider matte-finished tiles in neutral tones for a more modern and forgiving surface.
They add warmth and style without sacrificing elegance. Ditch the gloss, and you’ll find your bathroom has a whole new cozy vibe that’s both welcoming and easy on the eyes.
5. Peel-and-Stick Vinyl
Once upon a time, peel-and-stick vinyl was the go-to for a quick, budget-friendly floor update. Fast forward to today, and it’s often seen as a temporary fix that screams ‘cheap.’ If your floors are still adorned with these squares, consider upgrading to engineered wood or luxury vinyl planks.
They offer the ease of installation with a polished, upscale finish. It’s a simple swap that elevates your space from temporary to timeless, giving you the aesthetic appeal without the constant upkeep.
6. Checkerboard Floors
Checkerboard floors had their moment, especially in retro-themed kitchens. But in most homes, they can feel more like a diner than a dining room. If you’re tired of the two-tone tango, opt for a natural stone or wood floor that adds elegance and warmth.
These materials provide a neutral palette that complements a variety of decor styles. This update can transform your space from kitschy to classic, ensuring your floors are as timeless as your design sense.
7. Carpeted Bathrooms
Carpet in the bathroom? Yes, it was once a thing, though it sounds like a bad idea now. It’s prone to mold and musty odors that no amount of Febreze can hide. For a modern update, replace that questionable choice with ceramic or porcelain tiles.
They’re water-resistant and come in countless styles and colors, providing a clean, fresh look. Your feet will thank you for the upgrade, and your guests will no longer question your sanity. It’s a win-win for both style and hygiene.
8. Wood Panel Flooring
Wood panel flooring was synonymous with the 1970s, complete with its dark, glossy finish. Today, it feels heavy and dated. For a fresher look, consider painting over these panels with a light, neutral color or replacing them with light oak or walnut planks.
These options brighten the space and bring a modern touch without losing the charm of wood. It’s an easy way to move from dark and dreary to bright and airy, opening up your living space with style.
9. Terrazzo Floors
Terrazzo floors were all the rage in mid-century modern homes, with their speckled patterns making a bold statement. However, what was once trendy now feels busy and overpowering. If your terrazzo is showing its age, consider polishing it for a refreshed look or overlaying it with a more subdued material.
Concrete floors offer a modern, industrial vibe that’s both stylish and versatile. This update maintains durability while steering your space away from looking like a relic of the past.
10. Wall-to-Wall Carpet
Wall-to-wall carpet was the cornerstone of cozy homes in the 1980s, but today it often holds stains and allergens. If your bedroom is a carpet kingdom, consider replacing it with hardwood or laminate flooring. Both options are easier to clean and can be complemented with area rugs for added warmth.
This change not only modernizes your space but also improves air quality and minimizes the risk of allergy flare-ups. It’s a practical step towards a fresher, healthier home.
11. Vinyl Sheet Flooring
Vinyl sheet flooring was once the affordable darling of the 1970s kitchen. Its patterns, while colorful, now seem more chaotic than charming. If you’re still living with these sheets, consider switching to tile or luxury vinyl planks.
They’re more durable and offer a seamless look that sheet vinyl just can’t compete with. This upgrade will not only boost your kitchen’s aesthetic appeal but also its function, making the space feel fresh and inviting for both cooking and entertaining.
12. Berber Carpet
Berber carpet, with its looped texture, was popular in the 1990s for its durability. But its coarse feel and tendency to snag make it less appealing today. If Berber is still underfoot, consider replacing it with plush carpet or hardwood.
These alternatives offer comfort and elegance without compromising on durability. This change will leave your feet feeling pampered and your room looking polished. Goodbye to the loops and hello to a flooring choice that truly complements modern living.
13. Faux Brick Flooring
Faux brick flooring was a hallmark of rustic charm in the 1980s, but today it can feel more faux than fabulous. The texture can be hard on feet and impossible to clean. Swap it out for real stone or porcelain tiles that offer the look of brick without the drawbacks.
These materials are durable and easy to maintain, giving your space a refreshed, authentic vibe. This update is not just about aesthetics—it’s about creating a space that’s functional and welcoming.
14. Astroturf Indoors
Astroturf indoors was once a quirky choice for those wanting a ‘green’ look without the upkeep. However, the plastic feel and odd smell make it far from inviting. If your room still features this synthetic grass, consider a more natural option like bamboo or cork flooring.
These materials offer eco-friendly benefits and a much more pleasant tactile experience. It’s a change that not only elevates the look of your home but also its environmental impact, moving from synthetic to sustainable.
15. Laminated Hardwood
Laminated hardwood was the 1990s answer to expensive floors, offering a glossy, faux-wood appearance. Unfortunately, it scratches easily and lacks the warmth of real wood. If your floors have seen better days, upgrade to real hardwood or engineered wood.
These options provide the genuine warmth and texture that laminate never could. This makeover brings authenticity and durability, ensuring your floors are as inviting as they are beautiful. It’s about saying yes to quality and no to compromises.
16. Ornate Patterned Tiles
Ornate patterned tiles were a statement piece in the 1970s, but now they can feel more busy than beautiful. If your bathroom looks like a mosaic museum, consider a cleaner, simpler tile design. Subway tiles or large-format tiles in neutral colors can open up the space and create a calm, modern environment.
This update not only refreshes the look but also enhances the room’s functionality, turning it into a sleek retreat rather than a kaleidoscopic distraction.
17. Acoustic Tile Ceilings
Though technically a ceiling feature, acoustic tiles have a way of pulling down the vibe of an entire room. Popular in basements for their soundproofing, they now just scream ‘old school.’ For a modern touch, replace them with drywall or a sleek ceiling panel system.
This update elevates the overall ambiance, giving your space a clean, contemporary look. It’s a simple swap that turns your ceiling from an eyesore into a highlight, making the room feel brand new.
18. Marble Floors
Marble floors once said luxury, but today they can feel cold and uninviting. Their high maintenance and susceptibility to stains put them out of favor. Consider replacing marble with porcelain tiles that mimic the look without the drawbacks.
These tiles are easier to maintain and offer a warm, inviting feel. This change allows your home to keep its elegant charm while becoming more practical and welcoming. It’s about balancing luxury with livability, ensuring your floors are both stylish and sensible.
19. Bamboo Floors
Bamboo flooring had its moment as an eco-friendly alternative, boasting sustainability and a natural look. However, it’s prone to wear and doesn’t hold up well in moisture-prone areas. If bamboo is losing its luster in your home, consider replacing it with engineered wood or water-resistant laminate.
These options provide similar eco-friendly benefits with better durability. It’s a change that not only enhances the floor’s aesthetics but also its longevity, keeping your home looking fresh and modern.
20. Cork Flooring
Cork flooring was celebrated for its renewable nature and soft feel underfoot. However, it can fade in sunlight and isn’t as durable as other options. If your cork floors are looking a bit drab, upgrade to luxury vinyl or ceramic tiles.
These materials offer superior durability and a wide range of design options. It’s a transformation that retains the comfort and warmth of cork while enhancing the floor’s functionality and style, making your space truly inviting.
21. Laminate Tiles
Laminate tiles were the budget-friendly choice of the 1990s, mimicking the look of stone or wood. Unfortunately, their faux finish hasn’t aged well. If laminate tiles cover your kitchen floor, consider investing in real stone or ceramic tiles. These options provide an authentic look with durability that laminate can’t match. This upgrade not only elevates the design but also adds value to your home, transforming your kitchen from outdated to outstanding.
22. Painted Concrete
Painted concrete floors might have been the DIY darling, but they often chip and stain, looking more utilitarian than stylish. If your concrete floors are showing their age, consider overlaying them with polished concrete or epoxy.
These options add a sleek, durable finish that’s easy to maintain and visually appealing. This transformation takes your floors from drab to fab, making them an asset rather than an afterthought, and giving your space the modern edge it deserves.
23. Ceramic Tile Countertops
Ceramic tile countertops once added flair to kitchens, but today their grout lines are more a hassle than a highlight. Instead of scrubbing endless seams, consider replacing them with solid surface or quartz countertops.
These materials provide a seamless look that’s both modern and easy to clean. This change not only simplifies kitchen maintenance but also elevates its aesthetic, turning your cooking space into a stylish centerpiece. It’s a practical upgrade for both convenience and contemporary design.
24. Stained Concrete Floors
Stained concrete floors were once a chic, industrial choice, but they can feel unfinished and cold. If your space feels more like a warehouse than a home, consider adding area rugs for warmth or installing wood-look tiles for texture.
These options soften the look and add a layer of comfort without losing the modern edge. This update will make your floors a feature rather than a flaw, ensuring your space is inviting and stylish.
25. Vinyl Asbestos Tiles
Vinyl asbestos tiles were a mid-century marvel, offering durability and affordability. However, their health risks make them a no-go today. If you’re dealing with VCT tiles, consider professional removal and replacement with modern, safe alternatives like luxury vinyl or ceramic tiles.
These options are not only stylish but also safe, offering peace of mind alongside their visual appeal. This change is about more than aesthetics—it’s about creating a safe, beautiful environment for your family.