10 Surprising Things That Are Making Your Home Look Dated

There are many design elements that can make it feel like you’re living in a different century; and most of the time, they go unnoticed. Sometimes it’s the smaller details, like light fixtures and window treatments, that make a living space feel dated. Most of these factors are an easy fix and will help you achieve the updated feel you’ve been craving. Here’s my list of 10 things that may be aging the look of your home.

Sarah Baeumler has an eye for all things design. She stars in Home to Win and co-hosts Bryan Inc. alongside Bryan.

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1 / 10

Popcorn Ceilings

Many homeowners are familiar with the dreaded popcorn ceiling. During the 80s, these textured ceilings were a staple in the home. Now, they’re a nuisance, as they give your space an older look. Be warned: it’s a messy process to remove! See here for 10 condo eyesores that are super easy to upgrade.

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2 / 10

Dark Drapery

Nothing makes a home look more dated than over-the-top window treatments. Tuscan-style drapery was a popular feature in the 90s and early 2000s. Now, these dark and heavy drapes make the house feel behind the times. Instead, choose bright and simple window treatments (like the ones pictured here!), which will give your home a modern feel. We loved these 15 design trends in the ’80s (but shudder at them now!).

Lauren Miller

3 / 10

Polished Gold Fixtures

Everyone knows that I love brass fixtures, but there is a very big difference between in-style brass (pictured here) and shiny, polished gold. These types of fixtures, including door knobs and sink faucets, are often a key factor in making your home look dated. Swapping these finishes to chrome or black can help bring your home into this generation.

Zack Tosswill

4 / 10

Clutter

Clutter can also contribute to a dated home. Simplify your space by tidying up everyday items and keeping your coffee tables, shelves and kitchen counters organized. This will give your house a clean and minimalist look. Check out these 10 decorating mistakes that are making your home cluttered!

Bedroom with wood paneling painted white

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5 / 10

Wood Paneling

Wood paneling is a more obvious feature that makes your home feel less like it’s 2018 and more like it’s 1974. The good news: it can be an easy and inexpensive fix. Freshen up that dark wood by painting it a light, neutral tone, as was done here, or swap it out for drywall.

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6 / 10

Carpet

Carpet is still a popular feature in any home. However, wall-to-wall shag has seen its day. If you still desire the feel of carpet, I suggest one that is low-pile and a neutral colour. With that said, the price of laminate and engineered hardwood has become more affordable, making it the more popular option when renovating these days.

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7 / 10

Wood Stain

The addition of wood offers a feeling of warmth that can’t be replicated. While I love wood details, its colour has a dramatic impact on a space. Warm, honey-brown colours will give your home a dated feel. Try updating the look with a darker or more ashy-coloured wood stain (as pictured here). These tones reflect the current trends and will bring your home into this decade.

Zack Tosswill

8 / 10

Frosted Glass Light Fixtures

Update your space by switching out frosted glass lighting for something more contemporary. Light fixtures can be a focal point in any home; and by switching out old fixtures for something new, it will modernize your abode in no time.

Jarrett Ford

9 / 10

Light Switches

The overall feel of your home often boils down to the finer details. Features as simple as light switches can leave your house feeling dated. Updating to Decora light switches will eliminate that out-of-date feel and make whichever room you’re renovating look contemporary.

White trim and blue decorative wallpaper

Jarrett Ford

10 / 10

Decorative Trim

While decorative trim was a popular feature in the 90s, it is now something to avoid. This type of ornate trim will add to the dated look of your home. Simple trim and mouldings will instead lend a more pared-back and sophisticated aesthetic. Here are some tips on which colour to paint your trim.