If your home features certain retro styles, it might be time to reconsider how they affect your space. Some classic design choices, once popular, can now make rooms feel stuck in the past rather than fresh and inviting.
Knowing which retro trends make your house look dated can help you decide what to update or keep. This article will highlight eight of those trends so you can spot them and think about how to refresh your home’s look.
Avocado green kitchen appliances
If your kitchen still rocks avocado green appliances, it’s probably shouting “retro” louder than you want. These shades were all the rage in the ’60s and ’70s and covered everything from fridges to ovens.
While some people now see that color as a fun vintage nod, for many it just feels outdated. Modern versions have sleek designs, but the classic avocado green can make your kitchen look stuck in the past. If you’re aiming for a fresh look, it might be time to rethink that green gear.
Shag carpeting
If your home still has shag carpeting, it might be time for an update. This thick, fluffy style was huge in the ’60s and ’70s but now often feels stuck in the past.
You might see shag rugs making a bit of a comeback as accents, but full wall-to-wall shag tends to look outdated. It doesn’t fit with today’s cleaner, more minimal home vibes.
Also, shag can be harder to keep clean compared to modern flooring options. If you want a retro touch, consider smaller rugs instead of covering an entire room.
Wallpaper borders with floral prints
If your walls are still rocking floral wallpaper borders, it might be time to rethink them. These borders were super popular years ago, but now they can make your space feel a bit stuck in the past.
They often come off as too busy or outdated, especially when paired with modern decor. Swapping them out or going for a fresh wallpaper style can really brighten up your home’s look.
Heavy brass fixtures
If your home still features those big, shiny brass fixtures from the ’80s or ’90s, they might be making your space feel dated. While brass can add warmth, the high-shine yellow tone screams retro in a way that doesn’t fit today’s trends.
You don’t have to get rid of brass completely. Instead, try swapping those flashy pieces for matte black, brushed nickel, or brushed brass finishes. It’s a simple update that instantly freshens your look without losing the charm of metal accents.
Popcorn ceilings
If your ceiling sports that bumpy, popcorn texture, it probably feels pretty stuck in the past. They were popular from the 1950s to the 1980s because they concealed imperfections and muffled noise.
Today, popcorn ceilings are seen as outdated and can make your space feel dark or tired. You don’t have to remove them to freshen up—painting or covering them with ceiling tiles can give your room a cleaner, more modern look without much hassle.
Wood panel walls
Wood panel walls used to be super popular, especially in the ’70s. But today, thick or dark wood paneling can make your space feel outdated and even a bit gloomy.
If you have these walls, you don’t have to rip them out. Instead, try lightening them up with paint or sanding for a modern twist. Otherwise, they might keep your home stuck in the past.
Overstuffed floral sofas
If your living room has an overstuffed floral sofa, it might be time to rethink it. These big, bulky pieces can make your space feel dated and heavy.
Floral patterns themselves aren’t a problem, but the oversized cushions and busy prints often clash with modern minimalism. You can keep floral vibes by opting for sleeker shapes and more subtle patterns instead.
Pairing a floral sofa with simple, contemporary accessories helps balance the look without feeling stuck in the past.
Lace curtains
Lace curtains can make your home feel stuck in the past. While they add a soft, delicate touch, they often create a dated look that doesn’t fit modern styles.
If your lace curtains have been hanging around for years, they might be making your rooms look stuffy or old-fashioned.
Consider swapping them out for simpler or more textured fabrics. You’ll instantly give your windows a fresher feel without losing charm.
More from Cultivated Comfort:
- 7 Vintage Home Items From the ’60s That Are Collectors’ Dream Finds
- 7 Vintage Home Goods That Became Collectors’ Gold
- 7 Fast-Food Chains That Changed for the Worse
- 7 Frozen Dinners That Were Better Back in the Day
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.
