Are you starting a home renovation, remodel, or new build? Deciding which trends to incorporate into your design can be overwhelming, especially with the ever-changing nature of home décor and design preferences. While it’s tempting to go for what’s popular, especially if you don’t have much experience, some trends that were once all the rage are now on their way out. In this blog post, we’ll explore 10 fading trends and help you avoid costly mistakes by focusing on timeless, functional designs.
If you’re looking to take control of your home project and save money, don’t miss our Modern Home Renovation & Remodeling Toolkit Course, where we teach you how to be your own general contractor and save 20-30% on project costs. More on that at the end of this post!
1. Open Shelving in Kitchens
Open shelving has been a staple of Instagram-worthy kitchens for years, but it’s becoming increasingly unpopular.
Why It’s Out:
Open shelves require meticulous organization and constant cleaning to keep items looking presentable.
Dust and grease from cooking accumulate quickly, making it impractical for busy households.
What to Do Instead:
Opt for closed cabinetry with glass doors for a similar airy look but without the maintenance headaches.
Consider creative storage solutions like pull-out drawers and concealed cabinets for a clutter-free kitchen.
“Functional design always wins. Closed cabinetry not only simplifies cleaning but also keeps your kitchen looking sleek and modern.”
2. All-White Interiors
All-white interiors are fading in popularity as homeowners crave spaces that feel warmer and more lived-in.
Why It’s Out:
Pure white spaces can feel sterile and lack depth.
Maintaining pristine white surfaces is challenging, especially in high-traffic areas.
What to Do Instead:
Incorporate warm neutrals like beige, taupe, or soft earth tones.
Add texture with natural materials like wood, stone, or woven fabrics to bring dimension to your space.
“Homeowners are leaning into cozy, layered designs that feel inviting and personal rather than clinical.”
3. Industrial Style
Industrial-style design, with its raw, exposed materials, is losing its edge.
Why It’s Out:
The look often feels cold and uninviting in residential settings.
Its overuse in restaurants and commercial spaces has made it feel less unique.
What to Do Instead:
Blend industrial elements with softer, more organic materials to create balance.
Explore transitional styles that combine clean lines with cozy, textured finishes.
“Mixing industrial details with natural materials can result in a timeless and welcoming aesthetic.”
Granite, once a go-to choice for countertops, is being overshadowed by newer materials.
Why It’s Out:
The speckled appearance of granite is starting to look dated compared to the sleek, uniform look of quartz.
Quartz is non-porous, easier to maintain, and offers more design versatility.
What to Do Instead:
Consider quartz, marble, or concrete for your countertops.
Opt for solid or subtle veined patterns that add elegance and modernity.
“Durability and design flexibility make quartz a clear favorite among homeowners.”
5. Gray Everything
Gray has been the default neutral for years, but its reign is coming to an end.
Why It’s Out:
All-gray interiors can feel monotonous and gloomy.
Homeowners are now gravitating toward warmer, richer hues.
What to Do Instead:
Incorporate warm neutrals like greige (gray-beige), sand, or soft greens.
Add pops of color with furniture, art, or accent walls.
“Color trends are shifting towards warmth, creating more welcoming and dynamic spaces.”
6. Farmhouse Style
The farmhouse trend, made famous by TV design shows, is being replaced by more personalized aesthetics.
Why It’s Out:
Overuse of shiplap, barn doors, and rustic finishes has led to a “cookie-cutter” feel.
Homeowners are craving individuality over uniformity.
What to Do Instead:
Incorporate subtle farmhouse elements, like natural wood beams, into modern or transitional styles.
Focus on timeless features that suit your home’s architecture.
“Less is more when it comes to incorporating rustic elements into your design.”
7. Open Floor Plans
The open floor plan has dominated modern design, but it’s losing favor as lifestyles change.
Why It’s Out:
The pandemic highlighted the need for privacy and distinct spaces for work and relaxation.
Noise and clutter in open spaces can disrupt daily life.
What to Do Instead:
Incorporate partial walls, pocket doors, or flexible dividers to define spaces.
Consider layouts that balance openness with functionality.
“Creating distinct zones can make your home more versatile and livable.”
8. Wall-to-Wall Carpeting
Wall-to-wall carpeting is being phased out in favor of hard flooring options.
Why It’s Out:
Carpets trap dust, allergens, and stains, making them less hygienic.
Hard flooring is more durable and easier to clean.
What to Do Instead:
Install hardwood, luxury vinyl plank (LVP), or tile flooring.
Use area rugs to add warmth and style without the maintenance hassle.
“Area rugs offer flexibility and can be swapped out to refresh a room’s look.”
9. Accent Walls
The bold accent wall trend is losing steam as more cohesive designs take center stage.
Why It’s Out:
Accent walls can feel disconnected from the rest of the room.
Fully immersive color schemes and textured finishes are becoming more popular.
What to Do Instead:
Use wallpaper or textured plaster across all walls for a unified look.
Choose paint colors that complement the room’s overall palette.
“Cohesion is key; go beyond a single wall to create a harmonized design.”
10. Sliding Barn Doors
Sliding barn doors are losing their charm as homeowners prioritize practicality.
Why It’s Out:
They don’t offer adequate soundproofing or privacy.
The farmhouse aesthetic they’re tied to is also fading.
What to Do Instead:
Choose pocket doors, bifold doors, or traditional hinged doors for better functionality.
Explore custom door designs that match your home’s style.
“Invest in doors that are both functional and complementary to your home’s aesthetic.”
Take Control of Your Home Renovation
Avoiding these fading trends and having home renovation regrets is just one part of a successful renovation. If you’re planning a remodel or new build, consider taking charge of the process to save thousands of dollars. Our Modern Home Renovation & Remodeling Toolkit Course teaches you how to:
Manage your renovation like a pro without hiring an expensive general contractor.
Save 20-30% of your project costs.
Make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.
Taking control of your home project doesn’t require much more time than working with a general contractor, and the financial benefits are substantial.
Ready to Save Thousands on Your Home Renovation?
Join our Modern Home Renovation & Remodeling Toolkit Course today and become the expert on your own project. Let us help you turn your dream home into a reality while keeping more money in your pocket.
Taking the time to make thoughtful design choices and avoiding outdated trends will ensure your renovation stands the test of time. By managing your project efficiently, you can achieve a beautiful, functional home that reflects your unique style and needs.
