By Nicola Caul Shelley, Synergy Design & Construction
No one likes to hear that their home is showing its age and showing its age, or that a “must have” decision they’ve made may have served its purpose. But the fact is that interior design trends and aesthetics evolve over time and what was “in” twenty or thirty years ago is now poised for a refresh. So let’s take a look at some common design elements hitting your home – and some ideas on how to update your space.
As with all things design, if you have one of these in your home and you LOVE it, let it be. It’s your home; if it makes you happy, enjoy it. But we bet it’s more than likely that some of these things will resonate with you and you might even have been thinking about swapping them out for a while!
Stair railings and banisters in honey oak/orange
Oh boy. This is debatable as we see this throughout Northern Virginia because so many of the homes in the area were built around the same time. We hate to be the bearers of bad news, but it’s time to give your honey oak staircase a new twist and get your color out!
Replacing the entire floor is one thing, but renovating your stairs is a weekend job that will completely transform your space. Don’t you believe us? Check out the examples below!
Ceiling fans from the 1980s
This one always brings back fond memories of floral wallpaper borders and chintz sofas. For us, it’s all about the details and nothing stands out more in a modernized space than an outdated ceiling fan. Even worse? If you didn’t manage to replace the failed bulb or the chain broke and no longer serves a purpose.
There are SO many options now at really reasonable prices in major department stores and online. But with so many options, how do you know which one to choose? You don’t have to have contemporary tastes to get one you like. As a rule of thumb, the less busy, the better. We think this is an easy fix to add to your list NOW!
glass blocks
Guilty! This has been such a popular look (especially in bathrooms) for so long that it’s hard to let go. However, it is time to move on! Today, large clear glass shower enclosures and uncomplicated, streamlined, modern finishes are the way to go.
Removing glass blocks may not be an easy change. If budget allows and it’s an exterior window, replacing it is a good investment. If that’s not in your budget, hang a sheer curtain over the glass block window to filter the light and soften the look. If you have a glass block shower or accent wall and want to take it down, you’ll likely need professional help. Put it on your wish list when it’s time for a makeover!
Tuscan-inspired beige and overly saturated color
Not all shades of beige are the same! The days of Tuscan-inspired beige are over. Also gone? Sponge painted/textured walls. Instead of beige, think white with grey, blue and green undertones. You won’t regret paying for paint. This is a simple change that a GIGANTIC difference to your room.
While we’re on the subject of paint, even highly saturated colors like ‘Hunter Green’ from the ’90s are out. We’re all about color and LOVE beautiful colors to add personality to a room, so it’s not about everything being neutral. Our advice? If you’re looking for an update, consider “moody” colors instead.
Read Paint Inspiration Had Landed and watch this space for when paint manufacturers release their 2023 color choices!
Large ornate kitchen lights with frosted tones
We all had these. It was definitely a “thing” but nothing more! Frosted shades make rooms appear darker than they are and can cast an odd light. Large ornate kitchen faucets with frosted hues are replaced with more linear and modern lighting.
The great thing about changing bulbs is that replacing them is usually pretty easy. You don’t have to spend a fortune updating your lights if you can’t get replacement shades – there are SO many affordable options on the market, now you’re spoiled for choice!
Arched cabinet doors with raised panels
There was a time when every kitchen seemed to have this type of cabinet door. Most of the customers we work with are willing to change things up and replace this style. Shaker doors are still the most common request, but we also have many more modern customers who want a more contemporary look and prefer panel fronted (ie flat) cabinets.
Replacing your closet doors is a more complicated solution that may not be as easy as you think depending on the closet line and how long they have been installed in your home. However, the end result will transform the look and feel of your kitchen.
In the example below, our clients had a beautiful split level home with lots of space, but the curved glass wall cabinets and peninsula blocked the kitchen into a small space in the middle of their main level. Although this remodel went beyond just swapping out the closet doors, it’s a great example of what can be achieved with the right design help in your existing space!
Polished brass fittings/door handles
Mixed metals are definitely in, but polished brass is definitely out. From handles to faucets and everything in between, polished brass has served its purpose. This is a fairly simple fix and it’s amazing what a difference replacing your polished brass hardware can make to your space. Here’s a great example from one of our recent projects.
As a local home remodeler, we are all about creating beautiful spaces that transcend design fads and stand the test of time. Are you ready to transform your home? Get in touch! Our consultations are FREE and we’d love to help you get started on your remodeling journey!