weekly design inspiration: dated designs
Even the most well-intentioned design choices can start to show their age. Trends come and go, and while we always advocate for personal style over chasing what's new, certain design decisions can make your home feel more tired than timeless. The good news? Small shifts can have a big impact. Let’s look at a few key areas where a thoughtful refresh can breathe new life into your space.
matching mishaps
The days of purchasing an entire living room set—sofa, loveseat, and armchair, all in the same fabric and style—are (thankfully) behind us. While it might feel like a safe and easy solution, this approach often flattens the personality of a room. A space full of matching furniture lacks the layered, curated charm that today’s homes call for. Instead, try mixing pieces that complement rather than mirror each other. Pair a sleek sofa with vintage side chairs or blend in different materials like leather, wood, or boucle for added texture. This kind of collected-over-time look instantly adds warmth, character, and a sense of story to your home.
Source: Martina Mondadori
Source: Carley Page Summers
fluid flooring
One of the most noticeable features in a home—but often overlooked—is the flooring. Jumping from tile in one room to laminate in another and hardwood in the next can make your home feel disjointed and dated. Flooring plays a huge role in how cohesive and expansive a space feels. Where possible, opt for continuity. Running the same flooring material throughout main living areas will visually open up the space and create a natural flow. If replacing all your floors isn’t an option right now, consider using rugs to tie rooms together or update trim and transitions for a cleaner, more intentional look.
Source: Arceri Interiors
Source: Heidi Caillier
detailed design
Leaning too heavily into one specific theme—whether it’s coastal, farmhouse, or industrial—can quickly make your home feel more like a movie set than a lived-in space. It’s easy to fall into the trap of going “all in,” but this often ends up feeling one-dimensional and, over time, dated. Rather than fully committing to a single look, take inspiration from it. Pull a few elements you love and blend them thoughtfully with other styles for a more collected, personal feel. You can even carry those details throughout your home to create subtle continuity without overdoing it.
Source: Shane & Pierce
Source: Lauren Sullivan
Design Tip: When you're updating a space, start with one intentional change—like swapping out your lighting or editing your furniture layout—before jumping into a full overhaul. Small shifts often spark the biggest transformations. Let your home evolve, one thoughtful decision at a time.
