- While there are plenty of vintage design trends on the rise, there are some design pros feel should stay in the past.
- We spoke to several interior designers on the outdated design features they do not want to see make a comeback.
Patterned wallpaper, antique mirrors, wooden accents—vintage design features are making a comeback in homes everywhere. Gone are the days of the all-white kitchen and the finely curated minimalist living room. Homeowners are embracing the "lived-in" look, and designers are loving it.
While the resurgence of trends from decades past is an exciting opportunity to blend the old with the new, there are certain features designers say should not be brought into the modern home. So before you hop on the vintage train, read on for 9 outdated design features pros believe should stay in the past.
Overly Coordinated Sets
One or two pieces of vintage furniture can add charm to any room, but when there's a few too many, the space might end up feeling outdated.
"I love vintage 'brown furniture,' especially heirloom pieces that tell a story. But what I don’t love are overly coordinated sets—like a dining table, chairs, sideboard, and china cabinet all in the same finish, or a bedroom with a bed, nightstands, and dresser that perfectly match. A single vintage piece, or even two, can anchor a room beautifully and add character. But when everything matches, it quickly feels overdone and visually heavy," says Meghan Jay of Meghan Jay Design.
Tiled Countertops
Homeowners are embracing unique patterns and bold hues, making colored tiles an exciting choice. While they might be visually appealing on walls or floors, they might not be as practical on other surfaces, particularly countertops.
"I’ve heard whispers of them making a comeback, and maybe—just maybe—they could work in a small powder bath. But in kitchens and full baths? They’re a cleaning nightmare. I lived with them in a house after college and can confirm: grout lines and daily use do not mix," says Peggy Haddad of Peggy Haddad Interiors.
Sponge Paint
Sure, we may have collectively taken a step back from the bland gray and white color scheme when it comes to home design, but if you're hoping to embrace a new hue, stay away from sponge paint.
"Faux finishes from the ’90s can stay in the archives. If you want texture and depth, limewash, plaster, or other artisanal wall treatments create a much more elevated look," says Haddad.
Popcorn Ceilings
Painted ceilings? In. Popcorn ceilings? Out—permanently. "Popcorn ceilings never make a comeback, and for good reason. They trap dust, flatten light, and lower the perceived value of a home the moment you walk in. Smooth, clean ceilings open up a room and let every design choice shine," says Lauren Saab of Saab Studios.
Carpeted Bathrooms
Rugs in all sorts of patterns and textures are welcome in a vintage-inspired home. However, carpet, especially in this space, is a no-go.
"Carpet in bathrooms should stay firmly in the past. It holds moisture, traps odor, and never feels truly clean. Tile or stone brings the same softness underfoot when paired with a rug, without the hygiene headache," says Saab.
Maximalist Bedrooms
Maximalism is taking over home design—trends like dopamine decor and grandmacore even stem from the larger interior design style. Homeowners are craving a personalized space, but designers warn against going full force when it comes to the bedroom.
"I have found that many clients seek peace, serenity, and a quiet place to rest in their primary suites. While the 'more is more' approach works in spaces that are meant to be dynamic and bold, bedrooms covered in wild patterns and loud colors are antithetical to getting sound, recuperative sleep," says Andy Yates of Andy Yates Design.
Glass Blocks
They certainly look vintage, but glass blocks are not the natural light solution they once were. "Glass blocks had their moment, but let’s be honest—they rarely add beauty to a space. They end up feeling more like a dated, utilitarian fix than a design choice. Today, there are far more elegant ways to bring in natural light while maintaining privacy and safety," says Jay.
Shiny Yellow Brass
Designers agree: shiny yellow brass instantly dates a home.
"Brass itself is classic, but that overly yellow, lacquered version? It doesn’t need a revival. Unlacquered, aged, or burnished brass feels timeless instead. Say yes to patina," says Haddad.
"Instead of adding character, it makes a room feel stuck in the past. Warmer finishes like unlacquered brass or matte bronze bring in the same metallic interest without ever looking out of style," adds Saab.
Orange Polyurethane Oak Floors
Wood tones and accents, whether used for flooring, furniture or simply decor, are on the rise. Still, that doesn't mean all tones bring that same vintage feel.
"I love that warm oaks are trending again, but the orange-red polyurethane finish? That one should stay firmly in the past. Matte, natural stains highlight the beauty of oak without the heavy orange cast," says Haddad.
Laura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC's TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates.
