In the wild world of home design, trends come and go faster than my attempts to keep up with them.
Some stick around like a favorite sweater, while others, well, let’s just say I’ve seen more than a few that should’ve stayed in 2010. Remember the time when everyone was obsessed with mirrored furniture? It was like living inside a disco ball.
I’ll take you through couple of trends, from those we definitely don’t need a comeback tour for, to the fresh, modern looks that are changing how we live. Trust me, some of these trends are a game-changer.
1. Faux Finishes
Ever wondered why some trends are better left in the past? Faux finishes are like the mullet of home decor. Business in the front, party in the back, but no one’s really sure which part is which.
These finishes, trying to mimic wood or stone, often end up looking artificial. It’s like wearing a wig that everyone knows isn’t your real hair.
They served their purpose in the ’80s, but now, they’re a reminder of a time when real materials weren’t appreciated. Let’s leave the faux in the past where it belongs.
2. Carpeted Bathrooms
How did this even become a thing? Carpeted bathrooms defy all logic and cleanliness. Imagine stepping out of the shower onto a soft, fluffy carpet that soaks up water like a sponge.
It’s a breeding ground for mold and mildew, not to mention the awkwardness of cleaning it. Sometimes, you just have to ask, “Why?”
This trend was probably born of a desire for comfort, but practicality was clearly absent. Let’s not repeat this mistake and keep our bathrooms carpet-free.
3. Overly Themed Rooms
If your living room looks like a Renaissance fair, we need to talk. Overly themed rooms take a fun concept and run with it.. straight into the realm of overkill.
It’s like living in a movie set, but without the Hollywood budget to match. Themes can be playful and charming, yet too much can make your space feel more like a theme park than a home.
Balance is key. A touch of theme adds character, but moderation keeps it livable.
4. Dark Heavy Wood Paneling
Where did all the light go? Dark, heavy wood paneling can make any room feel like a cave. While it might have been cozy in the ’70s, today’s homes crave light and openness.
It absorbs brightness, suffocating spaces with its oppressive presence. Some designs are better left as memories, and this is one of them.
A splash of paint or lighter materials can breathe new life into a room that feels stuck in the past.
5. Plastic Furniture Covers
Ever sat down and felt like you’re sticking to your chair? Plastic furniture covers are the ultimate paradox of protection and discomfort.
They might preserve the fabric, but at the cost of any semblance of comfort or style. These covers were the norm in past decades, but today’s homes prioritize livability.
Let’s choose fabrics that are both durable and pleasant to the touch, saying goodbye to the crinkly, squeaky days of the past.
6. Excessive Wallpaper
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by flowers? Excessive wallpaper, especially the floral kind, can make a room feel like a garden exploded inside.
In the ’70s, walls were a canvas for bold patterns, but subtlety wasn’t in style. While wallpaper can add personality, moderation is essential.
A feature wall here, a pattern there, these add flair without overpowering. Appreciate the art of subtlety and leave the floral explosions to the past.
7. Popcorn Ceilings
Ever tried painting a popcorn ceiling? It’s like trying to frost a cake with gravel. Popcorn ceilings once masked imperfections, yet today, they just scream “dated.”
The texture is unforgiving and hard to clean, not to mention they can contain asbestos. Smooth ceilings reflect light and offer a clean canvas for modern decor.
Sometimes, less is more, and in the case of ceilings, flat is fab.
8. Mirrored Furniture
Mirrored furniture is one of those things that can make you feel like you’ve stepped into a funhouse.
While it might brighten up a room, it’s like living in a never-ending kaleidoscope where every angle shows the same space in a new light.
Sure, it adds a bit of sparkle, but it also means constant polishing and upkeep. Sometimes, a subtle touch is all a room needs. Less shimmer, more serenity.
9. Sunken Living Rooms
Sunken living rooms used to be the height of style, creating that cozy, stepped-down vibe for deep conversations. But let’s be real, they’re basically a tripping hazard now.
While the idea of a lower seating area sounds nice, practicality wins out in the end. Level floors not only give a more open feel but also make a space way safer and more flexible.
Leave the sunken rooms in the past where they belong and keep our living spaces stylish and accident-free. A little elevation never hurt anyone.
10. Neon-Colored Accent Walls
There was a time when bright, bold accent walls were all the rage, promising to bring energy and life into a room. These days, though, they often feel more like a visual assault than a burst of creativity.
Instead of overwhelming pops of color, a softer approach with calm hues and rich textures can make a space feel more inviting and relaxed.
It’s all about creating an atmosphere where your walls quietly support the mood, rather than shouting for attention.
11. Open Shelving In Kitchens
Where everything’s visible and nothing’s hidden, open shelving in kitchens has taken the world by storm. It invites us to display our best dinnerware while keeping us on our toes to maintain organization.
This trend’s transparency adds an airy vibe, yet it demands constant tidiness. If you’re up for the challenge, open shelving can be both practical and visually appealing, offering a canvas for creativity and style.
12. Minimalist Design
How much is enough? Minimalist design dares us to question our relationship with “stuff.” It’s the art of living with less, making space for what’s truly important.
By embracing simplicity, we can create a peaceful environment that offers clarity and focus. This trend isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s a lifestyle choice that encourages mindful consumption and appreciation for the essentials.
13. Smart Home Integration
Imagine having a house that responds to your every command. With a simple voice prompt, the lights adjust, music fills the room, and the temperature is perfect.
It sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, but it’s very real now. While setting it all up might take some investment, the convenience and efficiency are hard to beat.
Before you even think about it, your home can anticipate what you need. It’s like living with a personal assistant who never takes a day off.
14. Sustainable And Eco-Friendly Materials
Making your home more eco-friendly doesn’t mean sacrificing style. With sustainable materials becoming the go-to choice, it’s easier than ever to create a space that’s both beautiful and kind to the planet.
By opting for responsibly sourced and recycled materials, you’re not just decorating your home, but reducing your carbon footprint.
It’s proof that sustainability and design can play nicely together. Plus, you get to feel good about living in a place that’s as healthy for you as it is for the Earth.
15. Neutral Color Palettes With Natural Textures
Where calm meets character, neutral color palettes with natural textures create spaces that feel warm and inviting. By blending soft hues with organic materials, we achieve a timeless look.
This trend celebrates subtlety, allowing decor to shine without overwhelming. It’s about creating a space that feels grounded and balanced, a retreat from the chaos outside.