When it comes to home design, trends often sweep through social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, captivating our imaginations with their aesthetic appeal. From bold wallpaper patterns to statement furniture pieces, these trends promise to transform any space into a stylish haven. But here’s the catch—what looks good online doesn’t always translate well into real life. As someone who has spent years exploring interior design, both personally and professionally, I’ve come to realize that many of the most popular design choices are more about creating visual impact than practicality or comfort. And guess what? Even professional designers steer clear of some of these trends when designing their own homes.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into six trendy design choices that have gained immense popularity but are often avoided by designers for their personal spaces. We’ll explore why these trends fall short in real-world scenarios, what alternatives exist, and how you can make informed decisions for your own home. So, let’s get started!
1. Open Shelving in Kitchens: The Illusion of Perfection
Open shelving has been all the rage in recent years, especially in modern kitchens. It’s easy to see why—it creates an airy, minimalist look and allows homeowners to display their beautiful dishware or decorative items. However, if you ask any designer whether they’d install open shelves in their own kitchen, chances are they’ll say no.
Why Designers Avoid It:
For starters, open shelving requires constant upkeep. Dust, grease, and fingerprints quickly accumulate on exposed surfaces, making them high-maintenance. Additionally, not everyone owns perfectly matching dish sets or pristine cookbooks to create that magazine-worthy look. In reality, most of us have mismatched mugs, random gadgets, and clutter that don’t exactly scream “Instagrammable.”
What They Choose Instead:
Designers tend to opt for closed cabinetry with glass-front doors as a happy medium. This approach offers the same sleek appearance while keeping everyday messes out of sight. If you’re set on open shelving, consider limiting it to one wall or pairing it with strategically placed cabinets to balance functionality and style.
2. All-White Interiors: The Myth of Timelessness
The idea of an all-white interior is often marketed as timeless and elegant. White walls, white furniture, white rugs—it’s supposed to evoke a sense of calm and simplicity. While there’s no denying that an all-white room can feel spacious and serene, it’s not without its drawbacks.
Why Designers Avoid It:
Let me tell you from experience—keeping an all-white space pristine is practically impossible. Kids, pets, and even regular foot traffic can turn those crisp whites into dingy grays within weeks. Plus, an overly monochromatic palette can sometimes feel cold and impersonal, lacking the warmth and character that make a house feel like a home.
What They Choose Instead:
Instead of going full-on white, designers prefer incorporating subtle pops of color and texture. A neutral base paired with warm wood tones, soft textiles, and layered accessories adds depth and personality to a space. For example, swapping out a stark white sofa for one in a light beige or taupe can achieve the same airy vibe without sacrificing practicality.
3. Statement Ceilings: When Drama Overwhelms Functionality
Statement ceilings—whether painted in bold colors, adorned with intricate moldings, or covered in eye-catching wallpaper—are another trend that has taken the design world by storm. These features certainly grab attention, but they aren’t always practical.
Why Designers Avoid It:
While a statement ceiling might work in a formal dining room or entryway, it can overwhelm smaller or multi-functional spaces. Imagine trying to relax in a bedroom with a ceiling covered in floral wallpaper or metallic paint—it could feel more chaotic than calming. Moreover, such elaborate designs can date quickly, leaving your space feeling outdated in just a few years.
What They Choose Instead:
Rather than going overboard, designers recommend enhancing ceilings with subtle details like crown molding, coffered panels, or a fresh coat of paint in a complementary shade. These touches add interest without overwhelming the overall design scheme.
4. Overstuffed Sectionals: Sacrificing Style for Comfort
Sectionals are a go-to choice for many homeowners because they offer ample seating and a cozy vibe. However, oversized sectionals with chunky frames and excessive cushions can dominate a room, leaving little space for other essential elements.
Why Designers Avoid It:
From my perspective, sectionals often sacrifice proportion and flow for sheer size. A bulky sectional can make a small living room feel cramped and disrupt the natural movement within the space. Plus, overstuffed cushions may lose their shape over time, resulting in a saggy, uninviting piece of furniture.
What They Choose Instead:
Designers lean toward modular sofas or tailored sectionals with clean lines and compact dimensions. These options provide flexibility and adaptability, allowing you to rearrange or expand your seating arrangement as needed. Pairing a smaller sofa with a couple of accent chairs also creates a balanced and inviting seating area.
5. Trendy Backsplashes: Flashy Patterns That Date Quickly
Bold backsplash tiles, such as geometric patterns, vibrant hues, or intricate mosaics, have become a staple in contemporary kitchens and bathrooms. They’re undeniably striking, but they come with a significant downside.
Why Designers Avoid It:
The problem with trendy backsplashes is that they can easily go out of style. What feels fresh and exciting today may look dated in just a few years, requiring costly updates down the line. Furthermore, busy patterns can clash with other design elements in the room, creating visual chaos.
What They Choose Instead:
A classic subway tile in a neutral tone remains a favorite among designers for its versatility and longevity. If you want to add a touch of personality, consider using a unique material like marble or experimenting with a simple herringbone pattern. These choices strike the perfect balance between timeless elegance and subtle flair.
6. Shag Rugs: Cozy Vibes with Hidden Challenges
Shag rugs exude coziness and retro charm, making them a popular choice for bedrooms and living rooms. But beneath their plush surface lies a host of maintenance challenges that designers know all too well.
Why Designers Avoid It:
As much as I love sinking my feet into a soft shag rug, cleaning it is a nightmare. Dirt, crumbs, and pet hair embed themselves deep within the fibers, requiring frequent vacuuming and professional cleaning. Additionally, shag rugs can pose tripping hazards in high-traffic areas and may not hold up well under heavy use.
What They Choose Instead:
For a similar cozy effect, designers recommend opting for low-pile rugs made from durable materials like wool or jute. These rugs are easier to maintain and offer better durability without compromising on texture or warmth. Layering a smaller rug over a larger one is another clever trick to add dimension and interest to your space.
Final Thoughts: Striking the Right Balance
At the end of the day, designing a home is about finding a balance between aesthetics and functionality. While trends can inspire us and push creative boundaries, it’s important to consider how they’ll fit into our daily lives. By learning from the insights of professional designers, we can make smarter choices that reflect our personal style while standing the test of time.
So, the next time you’re tempted to jump on the latest design bandwagon, take a step back and think critically about whether it truly aligns with your needs and lifestyle. After all, your home should be a reflection of who you are—a place where beauty meets practicality in perfect harmony.
