6 Outdated Home Decor Items You Should Ditch for a Modern Makeover, According to Experts
Are you ready to breathe new life into your living space? With trends changing at lightning speed, it’s all too easy to end up with a collection of dated decor. To help you modernize your home and embrace a fresh aesthetic, we consulted three talented designers. They shared their advice on six home decor pieces you should definitely reconsider. Consider this your official cue for a stylish refresh!
Meet the Designers
1. Mass-Produced, Disposable Decor
As we move away from cookie-cutter interiors, it’s time to rethink those disposable, mass-produced items cluttering your home. “Today, people are gravitating toward meaningful pieces,” says Laura Umansky, the founder of Laura U Design Collective. She urges homeowners to part ways with decor that lacks character.
“These items often lack the longevity and soul that a well-designed home deserves,” Umansky emphasizes.
Instead, invest in timeless, quality pieces that resonate with you. Mix them with more affordable finds from local artisans, flea markets, or thrift stores to create an inviting, curated look that feels uniquely personal.
2. Outdated Shag Rugs
Remember the shag rugs of yesteryears? Those funky floor coverings have largely had their time in the spotlight. Mahsa Afsharpour, founder of Saga Interiors, expresses a clear sentiment:
“Shag rugs were once groovy enough for my inner ’80s child, but times have changed.”
Modern options like low-pile or handwoven natural fiber rugs not only look cleaner but are also much easier to maintain. Bid farewell to crumbs and dust bunnies, and embrace a more contemporary aesthetic!
3. Sputnik Chandeliers and Edison Bulbs
Less than a decade ago, Sputnik chandeliers and Edison bulbs lit up homes, but their moment has waned. While they were iconic symbols of mid-century modern design, they can now feel dated and less functional.
Afsharpour advises homeowners to swap them out for fixtures that provide warmer, softer illumination. Look for milk-colored frosted glass or stunning natural stones like alabaster. “They’ll create a more inviting ambiance that your space will appreciate,” she adds.
4. Barn Doors
Once a trendy addition to kitchens and basements, barn doors might be heading to the decor graveyard. Afsharpour firmly believes it’s time to move on.
“Unless you’re literally herding cattle down your hallway, they’ve overstayed their welcome,” she quips.
Consider installing classic pocket doors or standard hinged doors that offer timeless functionality without the rustic gimmick.
5. Cold All-White and Gray Palettes
In the early 21st century, the white and gray decor trend dominated interiors, making homes feel chic yet often cold. Kelly Collier-Clark, founder of House of Clark, encourages homeowners to rethink this stark approach.
"These shades can leave a space feeling dull," she warns.
Instead, she recommends warm neutrals like rich browns and soothing greens. These hues not only modernize your space but also foster a welcoming atmosphere.
6. Outdated Window Valences
Let’s face it—window valences are relics of a bygone era. Collier-Clark describes them as reminiscent of her grandmother’s home, drawing on nostalgia from the ’70s and ’80s.
“The uniformity of matching curtains and valences takes away from a modern aesthetic,” she remarks.
Why not embrace a simpler approach with Roman shades? They elegantly enhance your windows while adhering to current design trends.
To sum it up, refreshing your home doesn’t have to be an arduous task. By saying goodbye to dated decor items, you can pave the way for a stylish and contemporary environment. Ready for a makeover? Start decluttering and embrace a new, personalized decor that truly represents you!
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If you’re craving additional insights on home decor, be sure to check out the original article on The Spruce. Your journey toward a modernized home starts today!
