Overdone minimalism
Ah, minimalism – it's been the go-to trend for a while, hasn't it? But let's face it, sometimes less isn't always more. Overdone minimalism can leave rooms feeling cold and impersonal. Sure, clutter-free is great, but a home needs a touch of warmth to feel, well, homey.
Now, as we look towards saying goodbye to 2023, we should probably be waving goodbye to that extreme minimal look too. A little extra decor, a few personal mementos – that's what turns a house into a home. The new direction? Spaces that are clean yet cozy, minimal yet inviting.
Fast furniture
Fast furniture – quick to buy, quick to break. It's the fast fashion of the furniture world. Many of us have fallen for these affordable, stylish items at some point. But, we've likely also learned the hard way that these pieces don't last very long. Wobbly legs, peeling finishes... the list goes on.
As we look forwards, we should be focusing on more sustainable choices. Yes, they may cost more upfront, but well-made pieces last longer, so can actually save money in the long run. Not to mention, opting for durable furniture is much better for the environment.
All-white kitchens
The all-white kitchen definitely has its merits, but let's be honest, it's a bit like walking on eggshells – literally. One spill, and it's a scramble to clean up before the stain sets. Plus, all that white can sometimes feel more sterile than stylish.
This is a trend we should consider leaving in 2023, embracing kitchens that are not just about looks but also about livability. Injecting some color or adding a mix of materials can really transform these kitchens into spaces that are as warm and welcoming as the meals cooked in them.
Grey overload
Grey has been the neutral go-to for a while, but there's a fine line between stylish and dull. When everything is grey, a home can start to feel more like a gloomy, cloudy day than a sophisticated space. It’s time to ditch this trend and breathe some life back into these spaces with a little bit of brightness.
It's not about going overboard – just a few simple, vibrant touches that can significantly lift a room's energy. Yes, grey is great, but it's all about moderation. And hey, what's a life without color?
Open floor plans
For years, open floor plans were a super popular choice, known for their spaciousness and connected feel. But let's face it – they're not always as great as they sounded. Noise bounces everywhere, and cooking smells don't know where the kitchen ends.
As we reassess our living spaces for 2024, it might be time to leave this trend behind and rethink that open concept, and instead bring back some of those good old-fashioned walls, or even fancy dividers. After all, we all need our own space every now and then, don't we?
Industrial overload
Let's talk about the industrial look. It's got a unique appeal, for sure, but there can be a point where a home can start to feel more like a warehouse than a comfy living space. When there are too many exposed pipes and ducts, it can feel kind of harsh. It's time to move away from that super harsh look and go for a softer blend instead.
It's not about completely getting rid of this style, but instead making it more suitable for everyday living. Mixing tough industrial features with softer, more homely decor can create that perfect balance – like comfy soft cushions on metal chairs, or warm lighting illuminating concrete flooring.
Strictly matching decor
Every item in a room having to match just right is a trend we are happy to leave in 2023. Why? Well, don't you think that the whole matchy-matchy look can leave a space feeling kind of predictable and unoriginal? It can feel like stepping into a furniture showroom instead of a lived-in home.
It's time to shake things up by mixing and matching different styles and patterns. By doing this, we can really express ourselves and create spaces that feel distinctly ours. After all, maximalism is coming back in a big way!
Faux distressed furniture
As we look at decor trends to leave in 2023, let's talk about faux distressed furniture. You know the kind, the pieces that are meant to look like they've seen a century of wear and tear, but are actually brand new? This 'shabby chic' trend tends to miss the mark on that authentic, lived-in feel and can feel a little overdone.
More and more, people are instead searching for real vintage stuff. They're heading to thrift stores and flea markets to find genuinely old-school pieces rather than these imitation pieces. And the best bit? Opting for authentic pieces is a sustainable choice, reducing waste and promoting reuse.
Non-functional objects
Make room for items that not only add aesthetic value but are also useful. Think beautiful vases that hold fresh flowers, or stylish baskets that double up as storage. If an item can double up as something else, such as a footstool with storage, that's even better. It's all about smart, functional beauty.
Mirrored furniture
For a while, mirrored furniture was the go-to for making rooms feel more open and light-filled. While it does add a sparkle, let's be honest, a room full of glass doesn't exactly say cozy and inviting. If you've got young children or pets, it's a given that an abundance of mirrored furniture can also be dangerous. Plus, the constant fingerprint wiping? No thanks.
As we step into 2024, it's time to reflect (pun intended) on more subtle and lower maintenance ways to brighten our spaces. Let's leave the mirrored furniture trend behind and opt for decor that's a little easier on the eyes - and on the cleaning schedule.
Lack of personal touches
Have you noticed the trend of 'catalogue-perfect' homes? Yes, they may look nice, but really, where's the personality? Rooms that are all style and no substance might look good but they lack the warmth of a lived-in home. In 2024, let's make our spaces more 'us'.
So, forget about trying to create those picture-perfect rooms that mimic what you see in show rooms; it's time to fill our homes with furniture and decorations that are personal to us, like gifts, souvenirs, and family photos.
Velvet furniture
Velvet furniture was once seen as luxurious, but can now often look a bit tacky, especially when used excessively. While it can make quite the statement, the appeal of full velvet setups has definitely gone down. It's also impractical, especially for homes with pets or kids.
Imagine trying to clean a spilled glass of wine from a velvet sofa – a nightmare, right? Still fancy a bit of velvet in your house? Try mixing textures. Combining different materials can create a space that's both stylish and livable, steering clear of the outdated look.
Plastic plants
Ah, plastic plants – the no-maintenance, forever-green solution. But here's the thing: they just can't match the fresh appeal of real plants, or the purity they can bring to the air. It's time to leave your plastic plants in 2023, and swap them out for some real greenery.
Not only do real plants look better, but they also add nature and freshness to our homes, not to mention an abundance of physical and mental health benefits. And don't worry, for those of us who find it a struggle to keep plants alive, there are plenty of low-maintenance options available!
Overstyled shelves
The overstyled shelf trend, where everything is perfectly arranged, is one we can leave behind in 2023. It may look good, but practically speaking, these shelves are more about show than use. Each time you need to move something, the carefully arranged look is disrupted, and let's not forget how this style limits the functional use of storage space.
Instead, let's focus on shelf styling that strikes a balance. Yes, add those standout pieces that have meaning to you, but don't fill every space with them. In that way, our shelves can still be aesthetically pleasing without losing their usability.
Generic gallery walls
Gallery walls are great, but not when they mimic every Pinterest board out there. Those uniform frames and perfectly spaced art pieces? A bit too predictable. Looking forward, it's time to mix up frame styles, add in unique art pieces, and add personal photos that actually mean something special.
The best gallery walls don't just look pretty, they tell a story, and are cohesive in style, theme and sometimes even color. Let your wall be a canvas that is personal and special to you, instead of just another carbon copy.
Overuse of rose gold
Rose gold hit both the fashion and decor scene with a bang, but it's already beginning to feel a bit dated. This trend came about as a fresh alternative to classic metals, but as we know, trends often go as quickly as they arrive, and this is one that's certainly on its way out.
As we move into 2024, opting for more timeless metallics is probably the way to go. Shifting to classic silver, gold, or bronze can add a lasting charm to our spaces. That's right, millennials - it's time to say goodbye to rose gold.
Open kitchen shelving
Open kitchen shelving sounded great at first, offering a modern, airy look for those of us with smaller kitchen space. But really, it often just ends up with lots of dust and clutter. Life's busy, right? And not everyone has the time or the energy to keep those shelves clean and looking perfect all the time.
When we think about redoing our kitchens, maybe closed cabinets or a mix of different storage types would be better. They're easier to manage and keep everything clean and tidy, plus they still look good.
Quotes on walls
Remember when it was a trend to plaster walls with inspirational quotes? Well, it might be time to peel those off and leave them here in 2023. Yes, a little daily motivation is nice, but do we really need it on every wall?
If we're honest, this trend has started to feel a bit cringey - think the infamous 'live laugh love' quote. Opting for artwork or photos that motivate in a subtler way is a better way to go, creating a more visually appealing space without the need for words.
Faux fur overload
Faux fur – it's been everywhere the past years, hasn't it? Cozy, yes, but when it's on every chair, pillow, and rug, it can feel more like a winter wonderland than a stylish home. While a touch of faux fur can add luxury, too much can overwhelm, not to mention it's a magnet for dust and debris.
As we move into 2024, consider balancing it out with different textures. People are opting for a mix, creating spaces that are chic yet comfortable, without feeling like you're living in a fur coat. You can keep your faux fur rugs sure - just maybe limit it to one per room.
Unnecessarily repurposed items
Quirky? Yes. Practical? Not so much. We're talking about those suitcases turned into tables (case in point, the image below - it's not exactly handy to access what's stored inside), or ladders used as bookshelves. It's creative, yes, but often these repurposed items end up feeling out of place and not very functional.
It's all about finding that sweet spot between creativity and practicality. So, while it's great to recycle and repurpose, let's make sure our furniture actually does what it's supposed to do, and your house doesn't just end up looking like you got halfway through unpacking and simply gave up.
Overuse of neon lights
For the last few years, neon lights - especially those in pink, purple or blue - have been the coolest way light up a room. But really, turning our homes into a flashy spectacle can feel over the top. It's time to leave this behind and explore softer, and less overwhelming lighting options.
More people are choosing to go for gentle, warm lights that create a cozy, homely atmosphere, rather than feeling like you're living in a nightclub. A small statement piece on the wall? Great. But let's leave it at that and opt for subtler lighting choices as our primary way of lighting up our rooms.
Overly thematic rooms
Nautical, Parisian, or alpine - thematic rooms have had their moment. Because let's be real, living in a space that feels like a theme park can get old, fast. It's better to go for decor that reflects a range of interests and styles, creating a more balanced, personal feel.
Today, people prefer more eclectic rooms - not just a single theme on repeat. Blending various elements creates a personalised and unique aesthetic that's far more authentic and less, dare we say, contrived.
Excessive farmhouse style
Farmhouse style - often known as cottagecore - has got a nice rustic charm, hasn't it? For years it's been a go-to for many. But when every room screams barnyard, it's a bit much. The preference is shifting to integrating modern elements with the classic farmhouse look, creating spaces that are both timeless and contemporary.
So, if you're thinking of redecorating, consider blending the old with the new for a fresh take on this trend. This way you can combine the comfort of the rustic farmhouse aesthetic with the ease of modern design. Think more Grand Designs and less Grandma's house.
Monochromatic color schemes
Monochrome has a simple, minimalist appeal, but a whole room in one color can feel a little, well, monotonous. In 2024, it's time to leave this trend of uniformity behind and add some variety. Mixing and matching colors can give rooms more depth and character.
People are now choosing palettes that combine complementary colors for a more vibrant, lively home space. This shift towards a more varied color scheme not only brings energy, but also adds some personality - something that is hard to achieve with a monochrome look.
Cluttered bohemian look
Bohemian style, known for its free-spirited and eclectic vibe, is great, but there's a fine line between eclectic and just plain cluttered. As we wave goodbye to 2023, it's time to consider streamlining the boho look. The key is moderation. Opt for fewer, more meaningful pieces instead of overcrowding spaces.
The preference now is towards a cleaner, more organized style that feels open and airy. This refreshed take on Bohemian style keeps its essence alive while inviting a sense of calm - plus ridding your space of the excess dust that the Boho style can so often accumulate.
Excessive mirrors
Mirrors everywhere - yes, they can make a space feel larger, but too many can also make it feel like a funhouse. It's time to reflect (pun intended) on using mirrors more strategically. Instead of lining every wall with them, focus on placing a few larger, statement mirrors to create a sense of space without overdoing it.
More people are choosing to go for balance rather than a mirror maze. This more thoughtful placement of mirrors enhances spaces without overwhelming them with endless reflections. Remember - not everybody wants to stare at themselves constantly. Do your guests a favor and ditch the hundreds of mirrors.
Too much brass
Brass everywhere? It's kind of like when hearing a brass band (yes, pardon the pun) playing the same song on repeat – it gets old. In 2024, we're mixing it up. Think of blending brass with other metals like silver or copper for a cooler, more varied vibe.
It’s about giving spaces a bit of this and a bit of that, not just a full-on brass everywhere. Mixing metals adds character and keeps things interesting, kind of like enjoying a symphony orchestra instead.
Too many statement walls
Statement walls – bold, eye-catching, and once a favorite of decorators everywhere. But lately, they're starting to feel like a little too much. Not every room needs a loud, attention-grabbing wall. It's time to leave this trend in 2023 and explore subtler ways to add character to our spaces.
Consider options like textured wallpapers - they can still add depth and character to a room without being overwhelming. Today, the trend is shifting towards creating a balanced look, where each part of a space complements, rather than overpowers, the others.
Overly dark interiors
There's something about overly dark interiors that can feel gloomy. Yes, dark colors can create sleekness and and a sense of luxury, but too much can make a room feel a little cold, stripping it of the warmth that we want out of a living space.
As we step into the new year, why not brighten things up a bit? Lighter, brighter colors are making a comeback, creating spaces that feel more open and inviting. It's not about going all white, but instead, finding that happy medium that welcomes both light and warmth.
Fringed furniture
Remember when these tasseled edges were everywhere? Couches, cushions, rugs, curtains – you name it. But if we're being honest, nowadays, this kitsch 70s throwback is starting to feel dated and, frankly, they can look a little tired.
As we approach 2024, there's a clear shift toward a cleaner, sleeker aesthetic - think unadorned furniture with no unnecessary embellishments. So, it’s probably time to leave the fringe and the tassles behind and move towards simpler, more modern designs - without all the extra fluff.
Exaggerated rustic elements
Rustic charm is nice, but too much of it, with all the barn doors and mason jars, can be a bit much. It starts to make a house feel more like a barn. In 2024, we're moving towards a more polished style. Why not mix a touch of rustic with modern designs?
This way, you get a cozy, welcoming space that's not over the top. It's about keeping the cozy feel of rustic decor but in a more up-to-date way. Think less old-timey farmhouse and more sleek, modern country. Your long-suffering pottery wheel will thank you.
Excessive shiplap
Shiplap, once a staple in home renovation shows and DIY tutorials, is now overused to the point of cliché. Walls upon walls of shiplap can make a home feel less like a cozy retreat and more like a wooden box. As we move into 2024, it's time to explore other wall designs that still offer texture and interest without the shiplap overload.
People are opting for options like plaster finishes or decorative paneling, and even textured wallpaper that give character to a space in a more updated, less overdone way. After all, nobody wants to live in a house that resembles the poop deck of a ship.
Overuse of pastels
Yes, pastels are pretty and have a soothing feel to them, their overuse can sometimes leave rooms looking more like nurseries more than adult living spaces. In 2024, consider balancing pastel palettes with some richer, deeper tones. It'll add a welcome dose of sophistication to the mix.
Consider going for a blend of hues to create a more layered, interesting look. It's all about getting that perfect blend – a touch of softness from the pastels, a bit of boldness from deeper colors – to avoid that overly simplistic look.
Rattan furniture
Rattan furniture has been a popular decor choice for years, but let's face it – it's not always the sturdiest or the most comfortable. Often prone to wear and tear, rattan pieces can start fraying and breaking over time. And when it comes to comfort, they definitely don't compare to sinking into a cushioned armchair.
As we move into 2024, people are choosing more durable and comfortable alternatives - pieces that not only look good but also stand the test of time. After all, rattan was already a throwback - maybe it's time we retire this trend once and for all.
Lack of functional storage
As we discussed earlier, minimalism has been a popular trend for a while, but it does come with its issues - a significant one being lack of storage space.Functional storage has often been shunned in favor of sleek, uncluttered looks. As we move into 2024, practicality is making a comeback.
It's time to embrace smart storage solutions that don't sacrifice style. Consider options like multifunctional furniture with built-in storage or creative under-the-stairs shelving. These solutions offer the best of both worlds: stylish and tidy.
Word signs
Word signs – you know, those big letters spelling out ‘EAT’ in the kitchen or ‘FAMILY’ in the living room. Cute at first, but now? They're starting to feel a tad overdone. As we say goodbye to 2023, it's time to leave those letters with it and consider more creative ways to express ourselves.
Artwork, photos, or even a tastefully chosen print can add personality without being quite so literal. Today, people prefer decor that is more subtle, rather than spelling it out, literally, for everyone to see.
Cluttered coffee tables
Remember when having a coffee table full of decorations was in? Think stacks of coffee table books, fancy bowls, candles, and vases everywhere. Yes, these items, look great on their own, but put them all together and it's too much. Plus, where do you even put your coffee cup?
It's time to think about cleaner, more practical setups. Choose a few special pieces that add beauty but also keep things tidy. This way, you get style plus room for your coffee – it's a win-win!
Too many accent pieces
Accent pieces should enhance a room, not overpower it. But it's easy to go overboard, isn't it? As we leave 2023 behind, let's also leave behind a few of those accent pieces. The trend now is picking just a few standout items that make a statement without overwhelming the room.
So, in the spirit of a fresh start, let's focus on a few eye-catching pieces – maybe a unique lamp, or a stylish armchair – to give your space that special touch without overdoing it.
Acrylic furniture
Acrylic furniture had its moment, didn't it? It's got that cool, glossy look that seemed super trendy, but let's be real – it can make a space feel kind of cold. As we're moving forward, it's time to bring back a bit of warmth. People are now loving more natural materials, like wood, metal, and soft fabrics.
These things make your place feel more like a home, not a showroom, waiting room or office. So, if you're thinking about a refresh, maybe leave the acrylic behind and pick out something that feels a little warmer and welcoming.
Outdated floral patterns
Floral patterns – they're a classic, but let's talk about those old-school, super busy ones. You know, the kind that reminds you of your grandma's curtains? Yeah, they're not really cutting it anymore. What's in now are florals that are more understated – think simple, not stuffy.
We're talking about flowers that are spaced out and more subtle, not like they just jumped out of an old painting. So, if you're thinking flowers, steer clear of the fussy and old-fashioned.