Is your home feeling a little stuck in the past? Sometimes, we get so comfortable in our spaces that we don’t even realize they’ve developed a timestamp. If you’re wondering whether your home might look dated, you’re in the right place. In this post, we’ll explore 10 common things that can make your home feel outdated—and, more importantly, what you can do to refresh it.
Before we dive in, let me say this: this post isn’t about shaming your home or making you feel bad. Think of it like this—if you had spinach in your teeth or toilet paper on your shoe, would you want someone to tell you? That’s the spirit and intention behind this advice: to help you create a timeless home you’ll love for years to come.
And remember, if you’re happy with your home as it is, that’s what matters most. You do you!
For the full episode, please listen to the podcast or read the highlights in this post below—whichever works best for you!
Listen to the Design Your Home Podcast
1.Dated Home Feature: Builder Brass Fixtures
If your home was built in the 1990s or early 2000s, you might still have those shiny brass chandeliers or light fixtures. No matter how updated the rest of your home is, these fixtures scream “1990s.”
What to do instead: Swap them out for more modern options. If replacing the fixture isn’t in the budget, grab a $5 can of spray paint and give it a fresh coat. I did this in one of my homes, and people thought I had a fancy new light fixture! Add some shades or other small touches, and you’ll be amazed at the difference.
2. Dated Home Feature: Dome (aka “Boob”) Lights
You know the ones—those frosted glass dome lights with the little dark tip at the end. They’re everywhere, but they’re not doing your home any favors.
What to do instead: Replace them with flush or semi-flush mount lights. For a sleek, modern look, try a flat, circular flush mount. These are affordable and easy to find at places like Amazon or Costco. If you want something with more style, check out Shades of Light for current options.
3. Dark Ceiling Fans with Frosted Glass and Pull Chains
Another common culprit is dark ceiling fans with frosted glass lights and pull chains. They stand out against white ceilings and can distract from the rest of your room.
What to do instead: Opt for a lighter-colored ceiling fan that blends with your ceiling. I love the Spitfire fan from Fanimation—it’s clean, modern, and comes in lighter finishes like matte white. If you’re on a budget, Home Depot and Lowe’s have great options too.
4. Dated Window Coverings and Drapery
Window treatments can make or break a room. Sheer polyester drapes, grommet panels, or heavy, frilly curtains with fringe are all dated styles that can weigh down your space.
What to do instead: Go for linen drapery panels or linen sheers for a light, modern look. Hang them with rings on a simple rod for a more polished finish. Amazon and Wayfair have affordable options that look high-end.
5. Dated Home Feature: Wallpaper Borders
Wallpaper borders were all the rage in the 1980s and 1990s, but they’ve long since fallen out of favor. Whether they’re floral or geometric, they instantly date a room.
What to do instead: Remove the border and paint the wall a solid color. If you still love wallpaper, consider a full accent wall or a peel-and-stick mural for a fresh, modern look.
6. Wall Decals
Peel-and-stick wall decals, especially in kids’ rooms, and also quotes were trendy 10–15 years ago. But now, they can make a space feel outdated.
What to do instead: Paint the wall or use a wallpaper mural for a more dynamic effect. If you want to add texture, consider a wood focal wall or classic panel molding.
7. Word Signs and Quotes Everywhere
Hobby Lobby-style word signs like “Gather,” “This is Us,” or “Eat” have had their moment, but it’s time to move on. And let’s be honest—do we really need a sign to tell us we’re in the kitchen?
What to do instead: If you love quotes, limit them to one or two meaningful pieces in your home. Otherwise, opt for timeless wall art like landscapes, abstracts, or mirrors.
8. Chevron Fabrics
Chevron patterns were everywhere a decade ago, but they’ve run their course. Drapes, pillows, and picture frames with zigzag stripes can make a space feel stuck in the past.
What to do instead: Switch to solid fabrics with texture or subtle patterns. Linen drapes and neutral throw pillows are timeless and easy to update.
9. Tuscan Style
The Tuscan trend of the late 1990s and early 2000s featured reddish-brown tones, sponge-painted walls, and olive motifs. While it was beautiful in its time, it can feel heavy and dated now.
What to do instead: Lighten up the space with neutral paint colors and remove any overly themed decor. If you have honey oak stair railings, consider painting them for a fresh, modern look.
10. Too Much Carpet
Wall-to-wall carpet, especially in living rooms, dining rooms, or bathrooms, can make a home feel dated—even if it’s a neutral color.
What to do instead ( and yes, I realize this is a more expensice update, but it makes a huge difference): Replace carpet with hardwood, tile, or high-quality vinyl plank flooring. If you’re in a warmer climate, tile can be a great option. For bedrooms, you can keep carpet if you prefer, but updating the main living areas will make a big impact.
Final Thoughts...
Living in a dated home can feel heavy and draining, but making even small updates can transform your home into a place that brings you joy. Start with one or two changes from this list, and you’ll be amazed at the difference.
If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to follow me on Instagram at @nestorations and subscribe to my podcast, Design Your Home. Let’s make this the year you fall in love with your home all over again!
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