Some interior design trends stand the test of time, but a lot more of them overstay their welcome long after they’re out of style. According to interior designers, some once-popular home decor trends now just make your space look outdated or impractical. These are the ones we should be leaving behind, according to these experts.
- Neon lights - These little signs and images were a favorite for adding a playful vibe to a room, but designers say they can cheapen the overall aesthetic. “Neon lights had their moment, but they’ve started feeling more like college dorm decor than a nice design choice,” says interior designer Courtney Cole. Wall sconces and pendant lights are good alternatives for warm, layered lighting.
- Staged “shelfies” - Those perfectly curated shelves filled with things like turned-around books, abstract sculptures and untouched candles can end up looking more like a retail display than personal decor. Interior designer Lior Kahana suggests making shelves feel “lived-in” with a mix of books you actually read, vintage pieces, and meaningful objects.
- Macramé overload - Popular with the boho-chic aesthetic, these knotted textiles have become more of a filler than a thoughtful design choice, according to these designers.
- The overly distressed farmhouse look - The artificially aged furniture and mass-produced rustic decor look has run its course. The experts suggest adding natural materials like warm-toned woods and real stone instead.
- Barn doors everywhere - Designers argue that this modern farmhouse staple is actually impractical, noisy and doesn’t offer much privacy.
- Hanging plants - A little greenery is always in style, but too many hanging plants isn’t a good look. When the plants are overgrown, not well-maintained or randomly placed, it can give a “jungle gone wrong” vibe, so these pros recommend structural plants in statement planters as an alternative.
- All white and gray everything - Neutrals can create bright and airy spaces, but designers warn all-white and gray can feel sterile and look like a hospital waiting room. Go for warmer tones to add depth and personality, like muted greens, browns or merlots.
Source: Newsweek