Buzz
Credit: Kamlesh Parate/Getty ImagesWhether you're browsing Instagram or flipping through the latest design magazines, certain trends seem to dominate. Open shelving in kitchens has become ubiquitous, and shades of sage green are popping up in countless renovation projects.
If you feel these trends are overhyped, you're in good company. Interior designers share their perspectives on the most overrated design trends. Below, discover their top six picks.
White Boucle
Walking into any home decor store or showroom, it’s nearly impossible to miss the prevalence of white boucle. Madelaine Mayer, founder and design principal at AD:ROIT Architecture and Interior Design, points out that its omnipresence is the issue.
“While this texture might have seemed innovative five years ago, it now appears overused and worn out,” Mayer explains. “It’s also susceptible to snagging, so if you have pets, opting for a more durable fabric like velvet or chenille is a smarter choice. These alternatives offer similar softness and luxury but with greater longevity.”
Faux Wall Molding
Adding a touch of old-world elegance to a room can be appealing, but it doesn’t always work out as planned.
“Although we adore custom millwork and frequently use it in our projects, we believe faux wall molding and wainscoting are overrated. They often lack the artistry of genuine millwork and can seem like a hasty addition rather than a thoughtful design decision,” says Maythi Perez Garcia, associate designer at Blakeley Interior Design.
She notes that faux molding can appear uninspired and generic, especially when limited to one or two rooms. Authentic millwork is usually integrated throughout a home, making isolated applications feel incomplete and lacking in depth.
Subway Tile
Subway tile remains a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms, but Mayer suggests exploring more distinctive options.
“This trend, once innovative, has become overly common in recent years. There’s a wide array of captivating tiles and vibrant grouts available at various price points,” she explains. “For an all-white aesthetic, consider zellige tile, which introduces subtle variations in color and texture. Experiment with patterns like basketweave, straight herringbone, or windmill instead of the traditional running or stacked layouts. The design potential is limitless!”
Burgundy
Red and burgundy paint colors are everywhere these days. Tara Lenney, founder of Tara Lenney Design, believes this trend is overrated and unlikely to endure.
“Red is an intense, commanding color, and if it’s been a lifelong favorite, then absolutely, go for it,” she says. “However, this sudden popularity of red and burgundy, particularly on permanent fixtures like entire kitchens, makes me skeptical about its staying power in the design industry.”
Can Lights
Isabel Ladd of Isabel Ladd Interiors argues that it’s time to move away from using can lights in kitchens. She explains that they create a cold atmosphere rather than fostering the warm, inviting feel a kitchen should have.
“Kitchens aren’t operating rooms, so ditch the can lights and choose lighting that fosters conversation and creates ambiance,” Ladd advises. “Pick a fixture that could easily fit in a living room or entryway, and always, always use bulbs with a warm glow. If task lighting is essential, tuck them discreetly under upper cabinets.”
Stainless Steel Appliances
Designer Elizabeth P. Lord believes both homeowners and designers have been limited by the default choice of stainless steel appliances in kitchen designs.
“For years, stainless steel was the industry norm with no real alternatives,” she explains. “Now, as appliances are increasingly seen as statement pieces, they must be intentionally integrated into the design to serve as a focal point.”
She highlights options like CAFÉ Appliances, which offer customizable finishes such as forest green with brushed brass hardware. “We no longer have to ‘settle for stainless,’” she adds.
