Interior design is constantly evolving, and keeping up with so many trends can be challenging. However, there are certain décor details that, even if small, quickly reveal whether a home feels current or not.
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According to experts interviewed by The Spruce, six common style choices can leave any home looking dated — but the good news is that there are simple solutions to modernize your space.
1. Wall-to-wall carpeting
Wall-to-wall carpeting, especially outside bedrooms, no longer conveys modernity. According to The Spruce, this type of finish tends to flatten the room and can even give off a sense of dirtiness. Instead, well-placed rugs are the perfect choice to bring warmth and sophistication without weighing down the look.
2. Matching furniture sets
Overly coordinated furniture makes the space feel lacking in personality. According to designers cited by The Spruce, interiors that look “straight out of a catalog” don’t have the same charm as a space with varied pieces. The ideal is to mix antique, vintage, and contemporary furniture, experimenting with different materials to achieve a timeless and stylish effect.
3. Outdated built-ins
Built-in cabinets designed for old televisions are one of the clearest signs of an outdated interior. Today, with TVs becoming thinner and more discreet, there’s no need for large structures to house them. According to The Spruce, the ideal approach is to integrate technology subtly, freeing up space and highlighting the room’s architecture.
4. Over-the-top themes
Decorating the entire house with a single theme — whether nautical, Italian, or overly rustic — can quickly make it feel dated. The secret is in the details. Adding subtle touches inspired by a style, such as blue wallpaper and a jute rug to create a beachy feel, ensures personality without going overboard.
5. Barn doors
Barn doors were a big trend in the 2000s, but today they’re considered outdated. Unless you live on a farm, this element can feel out of place. Experts advise opting for discreet and functional doors that adapt to the style of the home.
6. Too much gray
For a long time, gray was the favorite color in décor. However, as The Spruce highlights, an excess of cool tones no longer conveys modernity. The moment now belongs to warmer, cozier palettes that bring life and energy to interiors.
Modernizing décor doesn’t require major renovations — simply revisiting small details can make all the difference. Eliminating these outdated elements and opting for lighter, more current, and personalized combinations is the way to create a refined, comfortable, and stylish home.
Source: The Spruce. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
