Living in an outdated home often leads to feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about where to begin with updates. More often than not, homeowners have a clear sense of what's bothering them—it could be one or two things, or it could be an entire laundry list of dated elements.

For example, you might already know that your lighting fixtures are relics from the past, but what modern alternatives would complement your space? Or maybe you're ready to say goodbye to those outdated red walls in your dining room, but decision fatigue quickly sets in when it's time to choose a new color.

However, sometimes it takes a designer's fresh perspective to pinpoint the less obvious features that are dating your home. As designers, it's literally our job to provide clarity and direction while transforming dated spaces into cozy, stylish, and contemporary havens. If you're curious about what might be dating your home, here are some of the common culprits, along with smart solutions for making updates…

Outdated Element #1: Oak Trim & Cabinetry

If you have a home built in the ‘80s or ‘90s, chances are, you’re living with golden oak. This honey-toned wood was once used everywhere: floors, trim, cabinets, you name it. However, living in a sea of monochromatic wood isn't aesthetically pleasing, and updating these elements can significantly enhance your home’s look and feel.

How to Update: If you’re able to, starting from scratch will give you the biggest opportunity for a fresh start. Look at wood tones you’re drawn to and figure out how to use them strategically throughout the space so you don’t overdo it.

If replacing everything at once isn’t an option, that’s okay! Pick one thing to change — I promise, it will still make an impact on your space. Consider painting your cabinets or applying enamel to your trim and doors. If your floors are in great shape, have them refinished in a lighter or darker wood tone to mix it up.

Outdated Element #2: Brass & Heavy Light Fixtures

It may not be the first element you think of when you consider what’s dating your home, but trust me – dated light fixtures have a bigger effect than you think. Shiny brass and heavy “goopy” traditional lights immediately make your home feel trapped in the past. I can personally attest that changing your lighting is one of the most impactful updates you can make!

How to Update: When choosing new fixtures for your home, the lighter and airier, the better. They will fill your space without feeling too heavy and instantly modernize your home. Remember to scale your fixtures appropriately – believe it or not, most people choose lighting that’s too small.

For the biggest functional and aesthetic impact, adding in different layers of lighting is your best bet. Recessed cans on dimmers, decorative fixtures, and lamps will provide you with the exact level of lighting you need for each space.

Outdated Element #3: Old Carpet

Let’s be honest, there isn’t much that can make a home feel dated like an old, dirty carpet. It’s an immediate sign that the house hasn’t been updated in a while. Carpet definitely has its uses, but if it’s bringing down the vibe of your main living spaces, it may be time for a change.

How to Update: I like to recommend using a solid surface like wood or tile in common areas in a home. In these high traffic areas, they’re your best bet for cleanability, style, and better air quality. Not to mention a fresh, new aesthetic!

Carpet is soft, warm, and quiet, so it’s a perfect option for bedrooms, second-floor hallways that get less use, and as runners on stairs. If you opt for carpet in these spaces, be sure to do your research and select a durable option that can be cleaned easily.

Outdated Element #4: Worn Out Furniture

“This was the first furniture we bought when we got married,” or “This was my college furniture – I just never got around to replacing it.” I hear these stories all the time. Maybe you can relate. Whether you’re living with a fabric, color or style that just isn’t right, or your furniture is simply wearing out, refreshing your furnishings will breathe new life into your whole space.

How to Update: If you have well-made furniture but just don’t love the fabric or color, replacing the cushions and recovering the piece can give it a brand new look. Classic solid and textured performance fabrics are always good choices – they will hold up to life and will still look stylish for years to come.

If your furniture is falling apart, it makes much more sense to replace it. I like to recommend investing in the best quality sofa and chairs that you can. After all, they’re where you spend your time relaxing, so they should be comfortable!

Outdated Element #5: Dated Decor & Accessories

From accessories on shelves and pillows on sofas to hanging artwork and decorative mirrors, the decor we display can make or break our homes in a big way. Think about it — these accessories are everywhere! I will say, changing up your decor is honestly the fastest and most cost-effective way to update your home if you’re not planning to remodel.

How to Update: Start by evaluating your items with a careful eye. Keep the sentimental pieces that you love — those will always be timeless. Treasured family photos can stay, too, but consider updating the frames. Get rid of everything else that’s no longer bringing you joy or that just doesn’t work anymore. If you shop for replacement decor, be sure to think about your home as a whole and how items will work together in a space.

Outdated Element #6: Multiple Paint Colors

Red in the dining room, blue in the kitchen, beige in the living room, and green in the foyer… sound like your home? Painting each room a different color was a thing years ago, and now immediately makes a home feel dated. The good news? Painting is an inexpensive way to give a major visual update to your home.

How to Update: Creating your home’s color palette doesn’t have to be complicated. One of the easiest and most effective options is to choose a “flow color” to use throughout your home. Not only will a single color make the spaces feel cohesive, but it will make the rooms feel bigger since it’s harder to tell where one ends and the next begins.

One exception to this rule is if you’re painting a private room, like a powder room, office or bedroom. These smaller spaces provide a great opportunity to add a little personality by changing the color — or better yet, by adding wallpaper!

Enlisting the Help of a Designer

At the end of the day, you don’t need to completely renovate your home to give it an updated look. There are so many doable smaller projects that you can tackle. Keep in mind, though, that those smaller updates will provide temporary relief and a good feeling in the moment. For a longer lasting impact, you may want to consider working with a designer.

A designer will help you pinpoint precisely what needs updating and bring a fresh perspective to your project. We’re also incredibly resourceful, so if your planned investment doesn’t allow for a complete remodel, we can spot which updates will make the biggest impact.

If you are ready to take the plunge and renovate, a designer should always be your first call. Not only will they be able to help you realize the potential for your space, but they’ll be able to guide you through the entire process and help connect you with the right resources. I’d love to be that person for you. Reach out to me here, and let’s see if we’re a good fit.