You’ve probably been spending a lot of time in your home lately, and if it seems tired-looking to you, it’s for a good reason. You don’t have to remodel your interior completely, but some details are probably giving your rooms a distinct last-century vibe. Look around for the things that make your house look outdated and try some fast fixes to freshen them up.
White Appliances
It’s hard to believe that simple white appliances can offend, but a white dishwasher is a dead giveaway that your kitchen is on the wrong side of 2020. Stainless steel has been the default for a couple of decades, although bored designers are pushing for new finishes such as slate. If you have more creativity than funds, you can update your refrigerator with DIY tricks such as peel-and-stick stainless steel wallpaper or chalkboard paint to mimic matte black appliances, which are even more modern than stainless steel.
Valances
Take them down. The window toppers that once looked polished now just look fussy, and they block light. Your new curtains should preferably be sheer, and raising the curtain rod a few inches above the window can elongate it. Short curtains are no-nos; now it’s chic to let them pool a bit at the floor. Even your mini-blinds can give away the age of your décor, and they’re nightmares to wrestle with, anyway. Update them with sleek fabric treatments such as roller shades, and your home will look modern and expensive.
Frosted light fixtures
Giving up on the frosted trend has two benefits: your house will immediately look fresher, and you’ll get more light in the room with classic clear-glass fixtures. If you want to get more adventurous, geometric shapes are having a moment, and you can have fun with more playful chandeliers.
Wallpaper borders
Borders are out; entire walls of fearless, gaudy wallpaper are in. However, that will probably get old fast, so stick to basic paint in a muted color if you want to try something new.
“Live, Laugh, Love”
What do designers say are the worst things that make your house look outdated? Wall messages—designers hate them. The mass-produced affirmations have lost all meaning. Written-word decorating is over, even if the words are in French. Take down any wall decals or wooden signs, but if you still like the idea, you can always frame your wedding vows or song lyrics that inspire you.