If your home still rocks shiplap walls and “Live, Laugh, Love” art, designers have some tough love: it’s time for a glow-up.
There’s something oddly comforting about holding on to the home trends we once loved. Maybe it’s that shag rug you swore would “come back in style” or the open shelving that still haunts your kitchen organization dreams. But let’s be real—some design choices have overstayed their welcome.
In fact, according to research by OnePoll shared via Study Finds, 75% of respondents acknowledged that some of their previous home improvement decisions haven’t stood the test of time, and 69% feel self-conscious about inviting guests over because of their design choices. Interior designers everywhere are gently begging us to let go and make room for spaces that feel more timeless, functional, and genuinely cozy.
All-gray everything
For a while, gray was the color of sophistication—cool, calm, and effortlessly modern. But designers say the all-gray look now feels sterile and, frankly, a little gloomy.
Warm neutrals like taupe, cream, and beige are making a comeback, bringing life and depth back into living spaces. If you still love gray, mix it with wood tones or pops of color to soften the vibe.
Open shelving in the kitchen
It looked stunning in magazines, but maintaining it in real life? Not so much. Dust, grease, and mismatched mugs quickly turn that “airy aesthetic” into visual chaos.
Designers recommend closed cabinetry or glass-front doors to keep things clean and still showcase your favorites. It’s all about balance—beauty with a bit of practicality.
Over-the-top accent walls
An accent wall used to be the quick way to “add personality.” But now, designers are leaning toward subtle contrast through texture instead of bold color. This includes limewashed walls, wainscoting, or tone-on-tone paint for depth.
Matching furniture sets
Once the hallmark of “put-together” homes, matching sets now feel a bit too predictable. Interior stylists suggest mixing textures, tones, and shapes for a layered, personal feel.
For instance, a vintage armchair paired with a sleek modern sofa is a striking combination. The most interesting homes look like they’ve evolved over time, not rolled out of a catalog.
Shiplap walls
Thank you, farmhouse era—you had your moment. But designers agree that shiplap has become a bit of a visual cliché.
More homeowners are swapping it out for natural plaster, limewash, or textured wallpaper to bring warmth without overdoing the “rustic” theme. The idea now is subtle charm, not farmhouse overload.
Also on MSN: 10 outdated kitchen items people over 50 need to ditch
Granite countertops
Granite ruled the early 2000s, but it’s slowly losing ground to quartz and other composites. Designers love quartz for its durability, easier maintenance, and softer patterns that blend seamlessly into modern kitchens.
Plus, it doesn’t require sealing like granite does. A cleaner, lighter look feels more aligned with today’s design sensibilities.
Heavy drapery and valances
Do you know those layered curtains with tassels and swags? Designers sure do—and they’re not nostalgic about them.
Heavy drapes can make a room feel smaller and block out beautiful natural light. The new favorite? Linen or sheer curtains that move with the breeze and make a space feel effortlessly inviting.
Word art and inspirational quotes
“Live, laugh, love” had a good run—but it’s time to retire it. Designers say this type of wall decor feels more staged than sincere now.
Instead, consider personal photography, abstract art, or even vintage prints that tell your story in a more subtle way. Experts widely agree that your home should reflect your personality, not read like a motivational poster.
Tuscan-style kitchens
All that rich wood, ornate detailing, and black granite was fine twenty years ago, but modern kitchens crave light and simplicity. Designers recommend trading those bulky features for light hues and natural textures. You can still keep it warm by adding terracotta or vintage brass accents.
Popcorn ceilings
Once touted as a soundproofing miracle, popcorn ceilings now just scream “dated.” They also trap dust and are notoriously hard to clean.
Most designers suggest having them professionally removed for a smoother, more modern finish. Flat or lightly textured ceilings instantly make a home feel brighter and taller.
Overdecorated bathrooms
All that ornate mirror, detailed vanities, and mosaic tile had its turn, but minimalist bathrooms are where it’s at now. Designers say clean lines, matte fixtures, and open space produce a more spa-like atmosphere.
You don’t need dozens of accessories to render it luxurious. Simple with just a whisper of texture is so much better.
Industrial everything
Exposed pipes and metal finishes were once the peak of cool, but designers now see them as too cold and impersonal. The industrial look has evolved into something softer— “modern organic.” Mixing natural wood, greenery, and warm lighting can bring that same edgy feel without making your home resemble a warehouse.
Key takeaways
Design is moving from staged and sterile to warm and personal. The days of all-gray rooms, word art walls, and showroom-perfect furniture sets are over. Today’s homes are about depth, comfort, and authenticity—spaces that tell your story, not just follow a Pinterest trend. Mixing textures, colors, and styles makes a room feel lived-in and timeless instead of overly curated.
Function and comfort now matter more than flashy trends. Designers are steering away from impractical looks like open shelving or overdecorated bathrooms and toward materials and layouts that make everyday life easier. That’s quartz over granite, glass-front cabinets over cluttered displays, and light, breathable fabrics instead of heavy drapes.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
9 Clever Small Backyard Ideas to Maximize Every Inch of Your Space
9 Clever Small Backyard Ideas to Maximize Every Inch of Your Space
Let me tell you about my first backyard. It wasn’t really a backyard. It was more of a… well, my friends kindly called it a “patio,” but in reality, it was a sad, 15-by-20-foot rectangle of dusty ground and patchy weeds.
Here are 9 clever small backyard ideas that will help you maximize every inch of your space.
16 Grocery Staples to Stock Up On Before Prices Spike Again
16 Grocery Staples to Stock Up On Before Prices Spike Again
I was in the grocery store the other day, and it hit me—I’m buying the exact same things I always do, but my bill just keeps getting higher. Like, I swear I just blinked, and suddenly eggs are a luxury item. What’s going on?
Inflation, supply-chain delays, and erratic weather conditions have modestly (or, let’s face it, dramatically) pushed the prices of staples ever higher. The USDA reports that food prices climbed an additional 2.9% year over year in May 2025—and that’s after the inflation storm of 2022–2023.
So, if you’ve got room in a pantry, freezer, or even a couple of extra shelves, now might be a good moment to stock up on these staple groceries—before the prices rise later.
