5 Outdated Interior Design Trends That May Never Come Back

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Step into any home and you'll find a reflection of the trends that once captivated the world of interior design. But these interior design trends come and go as our  tastes and preferences  change. 

What was once considered cutting-edge and chic can quickly become outdated and stale. 

In this blog, we'll take a journey through interior design trends that have lost their appeal in the modern age. 

From popcorn ceilings to matching furniture sets, we'll explore why these trends were once beloved and why they're now relegated.

What are Interior Design Trends?

To understand which design trends to stay away from, you first have to understand what are interior design treds.

Interior design trends are constantly evolving, responding to changing lifestyles, needs and design. 

They can be influenced by factors such as fashion trends, environmental consciousness, historical revivals, and advancements in design technologies. 

For example, interior design trends are often influenced by global events. For instance, in 2020 we saw a huge shift towards home offices, flexible living spaces, and cosy, comforting aesthetics as people were spending far more time indoors.

Outdated Interior Design Trends

Okay, so without further ado, keep reading to find out which  interior design trends have overstayed their welcome. 

1. Green & Gold

Remember the avocado green and harvest gold colour palette that dominated kitchens and bathrooms?

While these hues may evoke a sense of nostalgia for some, they're often seen as outdated and uninspiring today.

Instead of clinging to these retro colours, consider embracing more timeless shades like crisp white, soothing neutrals, or bold tones for a modern look that won't feel stuck in the past.

2. Bright Lighting

Bright, harsh lighting is something of the past that has no place in today's modern homes. 

Not only does it cast unflattering shadows and distort colors, but it also lacks the warmth that is essential for creating a relaxing atmosphere. 

Instead, opt for layered lighting with a combination of overhead fixtures, low lighting, and accent lights to create depth and dimension in your space.

Photos: Homes and Gardens and Just Creative Light. 

3. Carpeted Bathrooms

I think we can all collectively agree that carpeted bathrooms should never ever come back. 

Carpeted bathrooms were once a popular design choice, but even looking back now, it’s kind of hard to create a logical reason why this was the case. 

Not only were these bathrooms more subjected to odours and mould, but we can’t even get past the actual style. 

I’m not 100% sure who made this thing, but we’re glad that this design trend is becoming a distant memory.

These photos perfectly illustrate how much better tile looks than carpet in a bathroom - not to mention is much more practical! Photos by Living etc and National Design Academy. 

4. Word Art

I think it’s fair to say that we all fell into the trend of giant wooden plaques. That usually consisted of the letters LOVE or something to that nature. 

Luckily, we haven’t been seeing many of these designs anymore as people are opting for more meaningful aesthetic art..

5. Over-the-Top Wallpaper

Whilst wallpaper can add personality and flair to any space, there's a fine line between tasteful and tacky. 

Gone are the days of busy floral prints and whimsical patterns that overwhelm the senses. 

Instead, everyone is embracing subtle, calmer wallpapers with dainty patterns and lighter colours.

The chintz styled wallpaper compared to the modern yet classicly inspired style of the Bumble Bee wallpaper by Farrow and Ball illustrates this perfectly. 

6. Popcorn Ceilings

Honestly, any type of textured ceiling is out. 

Popcorn ceilings were once a popular choice for adding texture and visual interest to a room. However, these textured ceilings are now widely considered outdated and can actually make a space feel claustrophobic. 

If you're dealing with a popcorn ceiling, consider hiring a professional to remove it and replace it with a smooth finish for a more contemporary look.

This guide by The Spruce gives you safety instructions on how to remove popcorn ceiling. If you aren't confident then definitely hire a professional though!

7. Fast Furniture

Just like fast fashion, fast furniture has taken a huge decline in recent years. 

This is because people are opting for more sustainable pieces and even choosing to thrift furniture instead. 

This is a huge win for the planet and something that we hope to see continues way into the future.

You don't have to spend a fortune on furniture for it to be good quality. Try out Swoon or Vinterior for some affordable yet high quality pieces of furniture. 

8. Matching Furniture Sets

Gone are the days of perfectly matching furniture sets. 

Today's interior design trends favour a more contemporary space and personalised feel.

Instead of purchasing an entire matching set, focus on collecting pieces that speak to your individual style and can be easily mixed and matched for a more dynamic look.

Photos: Eye For Design and My Domaine.

9. Overly Ornate

While ornate furniture and decor may have been all the rage before, today's interior design trends lean towards simplicity and minimalism. 

Overly ornate furniture and accessories can make a space feel cluttered and overwhelming, so opt for sleek and streamlined pieces that make a statement instead,

Remember, sometimes less is more when it comes to interior design.

10. Vertical Blinds

Vertical blinds were once a popular choice for covering large windows and sliding glass doors, due to their affordability and functionality. However, these flimsy plastic blinds can feel cheap and outdated in today's interiors. 

Instead, curtains are making a huge comeback. They make the home feel far more cosy and when done correctly, can give a luxury effect.

Anthropologie has some fabulous curtains with a modern twist. 

11. Shag Carpets

A hallmark of 1970s interior design, shag carpets were prized for their plush texture and retro appeal. 

They were once available in a variety of colors and lengths and dominated both bedrooms and living rooms. 

However, as concerns about hygiene and cleanliness grew, shag carpets fell out of favour, becoming breeding grounds for dust, dirt, and allergens. 

Additionally, their high maintenance requirements and tendency to trap odors made them impractical for modern living. 

Today, people are far more likely to opt for hardwood floors, laminate, or low-pile carpeting, which all offer a sleeker, more contemporary look without sacrificing comfort.

Benuta and Ruggable have some amazing modern rug options. 

Key Takeaways

As trends come and go, it's important to consider your interior design choices and make updates as needed to keep your space feeling fresh and current. 

By bidding farewell to outdated interior design trends and embracing more modern alternatives, you can create a home that reflects your personal style and is also timeless!