Home décor trends move fast. What was once stylish and trendy can quickly become outdated and tired. Keeping up with the latest trends can be exhausting, but sometimes it’s necessary for maintaining a modern and fresh look in your home. What may have been cutting edge a few years ago can now be an eyesore. It’s time to take a hard look at your home décor and make some changes.
There are certain décor pieces that have outlived their usefulness or style. They may have been popular in their time, but now they’re just taking up space and making your home look dated. It’s time to let them go and embrace the new trends. Here are six outdated décor pieces that you should consider removing from your home.
1. Popcorn Ceilings
Popcorn ceilings, also known as stucco ceilings, were a popular choice in the 1960s and 1970s due to their ability to hide imperfections, provide soundproofing, and offer a unique aesthetic appeal. However, the textured surface can be a dust and cobweb magnet, making them difficult to clean.
Today, smooth and clean lines are the trend in home design. Popcorn ceilings can date your home and may even detract from its value. If you’re considering selling your home in the future, getting rid of the popcorn ceiling can be a smart move.
2. Overdone Thematic Rooms
Thematic rooms—think nautical, tropical, or country chic—were once all the rage. They gave homeowners a chance to express their individuality and interests. However, these rooms often ended up being overdone, with too many on-the-nose decorations.
Today, subtlety and minimalism are key in interior design. Overly themed rooms can feel cluttered and overwhelming. Incorporating a theme subtly through color schemes or a few select pieces is a more modern approach.
3. Faux Finishes
Faux finishes, such as fake wood paneling or faux brick walls, were once a cheap and easy way to add “character” to a room. However, these finishes often look tacky and can cheapen the overall aesthetic of a space.
Today, authenticity is valued in home design. Natural materials, like real wood and stone, are preferred. If your budget doesn’t allow for these materials, consider paint or wallpaper with a modern design instead.
4. Heavy Drapes
Heavy, opulent drapes were once a sign of luxury and grandeur. They were used to insulate homes and block out light. However, they can darken a room and make it feel smaller.
Contemporary design favors natural light and openness. Consider replacing heavy drapes with lighter, sheer curtains or blinds. These alternatives can provide privacy while still letting in light and making your space feel larger.
5. Oversized Furniture
Oversized furniture can make a room feel cozy and inviting. However, too many large pieces can overwhelm a space and make it feel cramped and cluttered.
Space and movement are key in modern design. Opt for furniture that fits the scale of your room. Multi-functional pieces that save space are also a good choice.
6. Wall-to-Wall Carpeting
Wall-to-wall carpeting was once the standard for comfort and warmth. However, it can trap dust and allergens, making it a less-than-ideal choice for those with allergies or asthma.
Hardwood floors are the current trend in flooring. They’re easy to clean, timeless, and can be accented with area rugs for comfort. If you can’t do hardwood, consider laminate or vinyl flooring that mimics the look of wood.
As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
But home is just part of the story. I’m also passionate about seeing the world and creating beautiful meals to share with the people I love. Through Cultivated Comfort, I share my journey of balancing motherhood with building a home that feels rich and peaceful — and finding joy in exploring new places and flavors along the way.
