7 trends to swerve that will quickly date your home, according to design experts

It's no secret that some home decor trends come and go almost as quickly as they became trendy, and while we choose to bank on some of our favourites to be timeless classics, there are some that may simply not stand the test of time.

Unless you're intentionally embracing vintage living room ideas, here are some styles to be wary of using in your living room, kitchen, or bedroom if you're after timelessness.

7 trends going out of style that will quickly date your home

From textures to paint trends to follow, there are a couple of trends and stylistic choices that may be worth avoiding as design experts predict they're quickly going out of style.

1. Popcorn ceilings

This is likely a common interior trend that many of us lived through in our childhood homes or similar, and indeed, one that many of us can attest to has got to go.

'Popcorn ceilings, also called stucco or acoustic ceilings, grew popular in the late 1950s and were installed into homes as it was not only time and cost-effective but also helped absorb sound and cover up imperfections in the ceiling,' explain interior design experts at Hovia.

'Multi-Trade Building Services claim that this is their most requested quote is to remove the stucco or popcorn off ceilings.'

2. Mirrored wardrobes

This one might come as a surprise to some. 'The mirror wardrobe was very popular for many years. Plus, it was space-saving and functional. But sadly, mirrored wardrobes are no longer stylish,' says Sarah Lloyd, interior and paint expert from Valspar.

'Instead, go for a textured wood or a warm-tone colour for the wardrobe. Something neutral and natural works best. Then, add a mirror as part of the decor of the room.'

3. Minimalist kitchens

The all-white minimalist look might be a kitchen trend set to retire.

'Organisation when cooking is ideal, and making sure your kitchen looks hygienic is a no-brainer. However, sleek, glossy kitchens with plain cabinets and no bowls, cutlery, glasses or utensils of any kind in sight can leave them feeling slightly devoid of character,' says Sarah Lloyd at Valspar.

'Instead of a shiny, cleared-out kitchen, hanging plants, books, pots and pictures create a warm, lived-in feel, and warm lighting and paint colours are much more appealing.'

4. Boucle fabric

Don't get us wrong, we love the boucle furniture trend, however, Valspar's Sarah Lloyd says it's becoming slightly overused and only works well alongside certain interior colours and room layouts.

'For a small, rounded sofa or cosy chair by the fireplace boucle stands out nicely, but too much can make a room appear 'busy' and take away the distinctive, arty element that reminds us of a piece of architecture rather than furniture. Use it sparingly!'

5. All-grey everything

'We are moving away from the all-grey colour schemes that have reigned the last decade, with warmer neutrals becoming more popular,' says Harriet Pringle, founder of Narchie. 'They are also easier to work with when introducing pops of colour, so you don't have to be an expert to style them.'

'We understand why this one was so popular; grey goes with everything, it comes in a multitude of shades, it appears different in various lighting, and it’s very non-offensive. However we feel that 2023 is the year to be braver with our interior colour palette, and insert some splashes of colour into our home decor,' adds Sarah Lloyd at Valspar.

'Vivid colours like Valspar’s 'Moroccan Resort' and 'Emerald Temple' invoke feelings of cosiness that are perfect for living spaces, and brightening shades such as 'Peach Rose' work wonderfully in smaller entryways or rustic kitchens.'

6. Green ferns, everywhere

Sarah Lloyd at Valspar says, 'Plants inside your home can be charming, and the occasional green hanging fern gives a cute, bohemian vibe. However, green ferns are taking over indoor living spaces and brighter, colourful plants needn't be tossed aside to make room for them!'

'Placing a radiant pink orchid on your coffee table, or a handful of daffodils on the kitchen windowsill incorporates a splash of colour into your plant decor, and is a great way to inject your personality into a room.'

7. Following only one particular 'aesthetic'

'The cookie-cutter design approach following one particular aesthetic has the increasing potential to make a home look dated,' says Tala Fustok, designer and founder of Tala Fustok Studio.

Sarah Lloyd at Valspar adds, 'As an Instagram trend, white walls with white furniture, white rugs, white coffee table books and the odd vibrant plant or accent thrown in looks fantastic. However, not only is it impractical – those with children or pets will agree with us here – but it also lacks personality.'

Tala Fustok says, 'The eclectic nature of fusing various styles has a much more forward-thinking design dynamic and keeps a home looking current and fresh. Stark whites still have their moment in the world of design, however, unless packed with a punch (such as a splash of gold or integrating varying textures), this can look done.'

What you should do instead, according to experts

Harriet Pringle at Narchie adds, 'Mixing different designs, styles and eras is an easy way to stop your home from looking outdated.'

'Decorating with resale homeware and furniture gives the opportunity to reflect a personal style and also doesn't dictate like trend-led pieces that come and go.'

As always, despite us sharing some trends going out of style that may quickly date your home, if you like something, then at the end of the day, who cares what the trend cycle says?

Tala Fustok advises us to try to stay away from new trends – which will eventually go out of fashion – and encourage us to stay true to ourselves so that the resulting design is more personal, therefore always timeless.