Whether you’re planning to refresh your living space or preparing to sell your home, staying up to date with interior design trends can make a big difference.
Certain styles that once felt fresh and modern are beginning to feel outdated, and making a few small updates can help your home feel more current and potentially more appealing to buyers. In this guide, we’ll explore which home décor trends are on their way out, what to replace them with, and how to decorate with confidence (and on a budget).
Finance a home of your own with GO Mortgage.Why staying current with home design matters
Interior design is about more than personal taste—your choices can also impact your home’s value and marketability.
Buyers often associate outdated trends with deferred maintenance, while fresh, neutral styling can help them picture themselves living in the space.
Even if you’re not looking to sell soon, refreshing your home with timeless touches can help you enjoy it more and avoid costly design choices that might not hold up.
Say goodbye to farmhouse décor (especially shiplap)
Once beloved for its cozy charm, farmhouse décor—especially shiplap—has started to lose favor among interior designers.
While certain elements, such as barn-style doors and rustic wood finishes, may persist, much of the aesthetic is evolving toward a more refined, less kitschy version.
Outdated farmhouse features include:
- Faux-distressed furniture
- Overly thematic signage (“Farm Fresh Eggs,” “Gather”)
- Overused black metal accents
Instead, opt for:
- Authentic vintage accents, like antique pottery or landscape oil paintings
- Textured elements that align with your home’s architecture
- Warm neutrals and organic finishes that add character without feeling staged
Remember: if you still love farmhouse elements, it’s okay to keep them. The key is moderation and context.
Are accent walls outdated or evolving?
Accent walls aren’t necessarily gone, but the way we use them has changed. Bold, contrasting paint colors on a single wall can create a harsh or disconnected look. Instead, modern accent walls favor texture, subtle color shifts, or architectural interest.
Tips for tasteful accent walls:
- Use wallpaper with tone-on-tone designs or natural materials
- Choose the first wall you see when entering a room, or one with built-in features like a fireplace
- Consider the ceiling as a statement element
A well-placed accent wall can still provide drama or focus—it just needs to feel intentional and cohesive.
The decline of rose gold
Rose gold surged in popularity over the past decade, appearing in everything from tech accessories to kitchen fixtures. While it offered a blend of modern elegance and romantic flair, many designers now consider it overused.
Design alternatives that feel more timeless include:
- Brushed nickel or matte black hardware
- Warm copper or brass tones with a natural patina
- Bolder pinks are used strategically, such as in textiles or art
If you’re drawn to rose gold, try using it in small doses, such as a vase or picture frame, rather than in large, permanent fixtures.
Other fading trends to watch
Here are a few more styles that are being swapped for more timeless or versatile alternatives:
- Gray-toned wood floors: Once considered sleek and modern, gray wood can feel cold or artificial. Natural wood tones—especially white oak and walnut—are making a comeback.
- Bright brass: Glossy, bright gold finishes are being replaced by unlacquered brass, which ages naturally and pairs well with mixed metals.
- Location-inappropriate design: A farmhouse in the middle of the city or a tropical look in the mountains can feel out of place. Let your location and architecture guide your choices.
- Maximalism: Layered rugs, heavy drapery, and lots of accessories can feel overwhelming. Many homeowners are embracing a simpler, more intentional aesthetic.
As HGTV star Shay Holland puts it, “Most people want to simplify life…not in a severe minimalist way, but in ways that bring ease to daily rituals—like being able to sit on the sofa without removing six throw pillows.”
How to find your personal design style
Even with trends changing, the most important thing is to create a space that reflects you. Not sure where to start? Gather inspiring images to build a mood board, whether on a digital platform or with physical materials.
Include elements like:
- Paint colors and swatches
- Furniture or architectural features
- Textiles, wallpaper, or flooring samples
- Art and accessories that speak to your personality
Your style doesn’t have to fit a single label—it’s about finding what you love and building your space around it.
Budget-friendly tips for decorating over time
Redesigning your home doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, taking your time often leads to better results and fewer regrets.
Here’s how to update your décor without overspending:
- Set a monthly budget specifically for décor purchases
- Prioritize high-impact updates, like lighting or paint
- Look for unusual finds at thrift stores or estate sales
- Invest slowly in pieces you love, rather than rushing to fill space
Over time, your home will come together in a way that feels layered, thoughtful, and truly yours.
Making your space—and your mortgage—work for you
Whether you’re refreshing a room or buying a new home, creating a space that supports your lifestyle starts with smart financing.
At GO Mortgage, we’re here to help you explore your options, understand your budget, and find a loan that fits your goals.
Start your homeownership journey with style and smart financing today.Want to explore more home design and finance tips?
- Steps for buying a house
- How to furnish a house
- Mortgage payment calculator
Your home should reflect who you are—and we’re here to help you make that happen, inside and out.
Check your mortgage options and bring your dream home to life.