Most home trends wax and wane in popularity, but these 5 past trends below are telltale signs your home is outdated.

1. Wallpaper in Large Spaces or Bordering

Believe it or not wallpaper is making a comeback in homes. Selectively using wallpaper as an accent wall or in a small area is fine, but less is more. When used in large open spaces or room wallpaper can make people feel dizzy and overwhelm the senses. It’s important to choose a design that will fit nicely in a space without being too busy.

A wallpaper border in a room also tends to look dated. Accent walls, whether paint or wallpaper, is a better option.

Side note: Wallpaper tends to be a pain to remove, so you want to be pretty sure you’ll like it long term before putting it up.

2. Popcorn Ceiling

This ceiling “trend” was primarily used from 1950-1980. Bumpy and dust-loving, this ceiling style has since become completely outdated. Popcorn ceilings are extremely difficult to paint because of the rough texture. They also requires more maintenance, because you have to work to keep it attractive and put together. It’s actually suggested that you vacuum the ceiling with an attachment to remove dust that collects on it. Luckily getting ride of this outdated feature is fairly simple, soften the ceiling with water and scrape off with a trowel or putty knife.

3. Shiny Brass Fixtures

Nothing screams the 90’s like these shiny, brass fixtures in a home.   The shininess of this yellow brass is outdated and sticks out like a sore thumb in your home. When everything else in a home is updated the fixtures do not go nicely at all! Oiled bronze and satin/brush nickel are the two fixture trends currently. They are modern and up to date while still affordable in a home. Door handles and lights are easily replaceable so if you still have brass finishes we recommend an upgrade!

4. Too Many Collectibles

Current home buyers are looking for homes that offer spacious rooms featuring minimal decor. In the past, it was popular to display a lot of things to fill the space. Now it’s better to have just a few items that help tie your room together. Too many accessories and furnishings can make a room feel smaller and out of date. An accented mirror, throw pillows and a few small decorations are perfect to keep the rooms simple, yet provide some character.

5. Oak Cabinets

Oak cabinets used to be a very popular home feature, the key word is “used.” Oak has since fallen out of favor. Painted (white or gray) or darker stained maple have become the popular choices in cabinetry.  A fairly simple fix to oak cabinets is paint.  A little paint can give them a fresh look that will quickly make your kitchen feel more updated without breaking the bank.