Home decor mistakes: 8 done-to-death home design trends that give us the 'ick'

Outdated interior design ideas: Grey was once the darling of modern interiors, praised for its versatility and neutrality. However, the overabundance of grey tones has led to monotonous and dreary interiors (Image: Canva)

In the ever-evolving world of interior design, certain trends come and go, but some linger far longer than their welcome. While some styles become timeless classics, others quickly wear out their novelty, leaving many homeowners and design enthusiasts cringing at their overuse.

Here are some home design trends that need to retire now:

Overdone open shelving

Open shelving was once hailed as a modern, airy solution for kitchens and living spaces, offering a chance to showcase beautiful dishware and décor. However, this trend has now saturated the market, leading to cluttered, impractical spaces. The constant need to keep shelves perfectly styled and dust-free becomes a tedious chore. Moreover, in smaller homes, open shelving can make spaces feel chaotic rather than organised.

Shiplap overload

Shiplap, popularised by farmhouse chic enthusiasts, has become synonymous with rustic charm. Yet, its overuse in every room of the house has made it feel less special and more like a cliché. The constant presence of horizontal wood panels can overwhelm the senses and make spaces feel less sophisticated. It's time to let shiplap take a backseat and explore more refined wall treatments.

Excessive use of grey

Grey was once the darling of modern interiors, praised for its versatility and neutrality. However, the overabundance of grey tones has led to monotonous and dreary interiors. Entire rooms drenched in various shades of grey can feel cold and uninspired. Designers are now advocating for a return to warmer, more inviting colour palettes that bring life and personality to spaces.

Industrial everything

The industrial design trend brought us exposed brick walls, metal piping, and raw, unfinished surfaces. While it offers a unique, edgy aesthetic, its ubiquity has caused it to lose its charm. Too many spaces have adopted the industrial look, resulting in homes that feel impersonal and harsh. A more balanced approach, incorporating softer elements alongside industrial features, can create a more harmonious and inviting environment.

Chevron everywhere

Chevron patterns had their moment in the spotlight, adorning everything from rugs to walls to furniture. However, their ubiquity has led to design fatigue. When overused, chevron can become visually overwhelming and dated. Designers now advocate for more subtle and timeless patterns that can withstand the test of time.

Faux finishes

Faux finishes, such as fake wood and stone, were once considered a cost-effective way to achieve a high-end look. However, their widespread use has led to interiors that feel inauthentic and cheap. The proliferation of faux materials has made it clear that quality and authenticity should be prioritised over convenience. Real materials, with their unique imperfections and character, bring a sense of genuineness to a home that faux finishes simply cannot replicate.

Word art overload

Inspirational quotes and word art have adorned walls in homes across the globe, aiming to add a personal touch and motivational spirit. However, the excessive use of generic phrases has made them feel trite and overbearing. Instead of plastering walls with mass-produced words, homeowners should consider more meaningful, unique pieces of art that reflect their personality and taste.

Overstaged minimalism

Minimalism, with its promise of a clutter-free, serene environment, has been embraced by many. Yet, when taken to extremes, it can result in sterile, uninviting spaces. Overstaged minimalism, where every item feels meticulously placed and overly curated, strips a home of its warmth and character. True minimalism should balance simplicity with comfort, allowing for lived-in elements that bring soul to a space.