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7 Design and Furniture Trends That are Out of Style

Updated: Aug 19


If you’re here, you probably like reading about trends. 


I mean, I love trends. And, well, who doesn’t?


Following the latest trends helps you keep your home feeling fresh and inspiring. I like them for their oooh, this looks good quality and their what a trainwreck quality, too! Today, we’re here for the latter.


So, let’s chat about the design and furniture trends that are out of style. Remember, what may have felt trendy yesterday may be making its way out of the door today. And for a classic home that goes big on design, it’s a good idea to steer away from these.


Let’s get started!


Matching Furniture Sets



If you’ve been in the design industry for quite some years, you’d know matching furniture sets were once the cornerstone of traditional interior design. This didn’t only apply to the furniture in a single room. From the living room to the bedroom, people made sure there was coherence in the furniture throughout their home.


But, today, this is decreasing in popularity. This is because a matching set lacks personality. It creates a very generic atmosphere… one that lacks character and individuality. Also, these sets give you limited flexibility. If you need to replace a piece — you’d struggle with finding a new matching one.


What we see instead: Combining pieces from different styles and color palettes is making its way into the design world. Think a gray sectional with an glam yellow accent chair and wooden coffee table.


Price: $849

Shop: Homary


All-White Palettes



White has ruled the color palette across homes for quite some time. Rightfully so, thanks to its clean and minimalist aesthetic. And you may be surprised to know — it is now on its way out. 


This is because people have begun to realize that an all-white room can feel sterile. It also comes with visual monotony. You know, one plain color throughout. White surfaces are more prone to showing stains, so they’re harder to maintain as well.


What we see instead: If you love a white aesthetic, you can still stick to it! Just be sure to add pops of color through artwork and accessories. I love a travel print from Morocco, like the one featured below. Additionally, embrace natural materials, such as light oakwood floors. Layering textures also helps; think pairing a boucle armchair with velvet curtains.


Price: $599


Glass Coffee Tables



For years, glass coffee tables often defined modern living rooms. After all, they have a sleek appearance that can add to the contemporary vibe.


However, today, they are frowned upon for their uninviting feeling. They add practically zero warmth to the space — which is important even in modern spaces.


Before heading to the latest trends, we’ve got an exception, though. If you have a compact living space that’s short on space, a glass coffee table can work well. This is because glass allows light to pass through and creates the illusion of more space.


What we see instead: Wood coffee tables, period. These add so much warmth to a modern space, making it inviting. If you want a more contemporary look, a metal table is the way to go (see below for my top selection). And for endless luxury, look no further than a marble masterpiece.


Price: $3,415


Gold/Rose Gold Hardware



Gold and rose gold hardware has been adored for the luxurious look it brings to spaces. You may have noticed simple gold hardware in the kitchen taking it a notch up in terms of luxury. But the scene is now changing.


Designers are saying rose gold is totally out. And gold is slowly boating out of the trend harbor, too. Rose gold is declining in popularity because its undertones don’t work with a lot. So, they’re not flexible. Gold hardware, however, is a classic — and can stay around for a few more years. If you still love it, don’t be afraid to flaunt it until it’s completely out of trend.


What we see instead: A shift towards cooler and more understated finishes. For example, the timeless appeal of matte black hardware. Or the enduring charm of brass accents.


Price: $13


Animal Prints



The OGs know the moment animal prints once had. They were a staple in glamorous decor, and were loved for the visual intrigue they brought to interiors. But, now, we’re watching the tides turn.


Animal prints were so loved that they ended up being overused. You could spot them in every room of the home, from a cowhide rug in the living room to a zebra-printed armchair in the bedroom. This oversaturation gradually brought down their impact. Additionally, as we see a shift towards the “less is more” trend, something as bold as a millennial pink cheetah-printed surely doesn’t seem right.


What we see instead: Anything unique. Decor that says YOU is now on the rise. It sure is time to think of out the box and reach out to botanical prints, geometric patterns, and the like. A floral- and botanical-printed rug, like the one featured below, is a great place to start!


Price: $1,899


Open Kitchen Shelves



Open kitchen shelves have long been used for their practicality and functionality. I mean, you can quickly toss that pepper shaker onto your open shelf as you cook. Nearby, and close to reach next time.


This convenience is actually one reason why open shelving is going away. When you place all your essentials on that nearby shelf, you tend to create clutter in the space. This also means you have to stay on top of cleaning and organizing the area.


What we see instead: Closed cabinetry and drawers are becoming more popular in the design world. If you’re thinking about you will be able to utilize that vertical space without mounting shelves (I know it’s an easy solution), consider installing tall cabinets instead. This may be a bigger investment — but it’ll give you a kitchen that’s in line with the trends + nice and tidy.


Word Art



Have you ever seen those “Home Sweet Home” and “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” signs in homes? We’re leaving them in the past!


This is because word signs look like forced art. You put up a sign saying something about you — very literally. And that’s not the goal when you’re getting creative with design.


What we see instead: Art that says something about you without actually saying it. Think a piece of abstract art that sparks joy or a sculpture that tells a story. You can also put together your travel photos in a collection of frames.


Price: $49


Final Words


As you say goodbye to these 7 design and furniture trends, you want to keep an eye out for the ones that are becoming popular. I’ve put together a list of the top 2024 trends; check them out here to learn what designers are seeing across the world this year!

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