Someone had to break the news about outdated home decor trends that will be obsolete in 2024. It's a new year, time to make some tweaks, right?
We love updating our interiors and outfitting our spaces to suit our needs, but that means some things can't stay the same. We spoke to interior designers about the styles and items shoppers should avoid, so here's what you need to know.
As we begin to compile a list of the latest small space interior design trends to try, here's what the pros say you should ditch and what you should consider instead: These improvements are sure to put your mind at ease.
Say goodbye to 5 outdated interior trends
No matter what part of your home you're focusing on in 2024, we've got you covered. From outdated entryway trends to outdated small bedroom trends, every angle of our abodes needs a little extra sparkle every now and then. And don't worry, we've spoken to the pros for a comprehensive rundown of outdated small space decor trends to eliminate and what to replace them with, too.
1. Ditch the single-purpose furniture and try stylish storage options
(Image credit: Getty Images/Josep Gutierrez)
With prices only set to rise, it's important to make every inch of space count in terms of style and functionality.
“With consumers more stretched than ever by the rising cost of living, value-for-money, multi-functional and practical furniture that offers value beyond its original purpose is in vogue,” says Sam Greig, interior designer at Soon. “We expect to see multi-functional furniture take on a more stylish look in 2024.”
Sam is adamant that storage items for tiny homes can be not only practical, but adorable too — you just need to take the time to search and know where to look.
“Think chic ottoman beds with hidden storage, decorative sideboards with extra cupboard space, and attractive bar carts that double as side tables,” he adds. “Functional doesn't have to be tacky.”
Plus, if you're looking for a place where you'd rather save than splurge, make sure to invest in furniture that will stand the test of time. Designers agree that it's best to choose quality furniture. If you're looking for a place to start, we've rounded up the best furniture stores where you can buy durable, chic, and affordable furniture for your apartment.
Painswick Canvas Upholstered Storage Bench
price: $194.99
Dimensions(inches): Depth 16 x Width 47 x Height 20
Alesha Wood Kitchen Island
price: $133.99
Dimensions(inches): Depth 20 x Width 39.76 x Height 36
Sam Greig is an interior designer at Swoon, a leading online design-led furniture brand with a mission to create distinctive designs that last forever.
2. Forget symmetry and combine instead
(Image courtesy of Getty Images/Martin Barraud)
Small space decorating ideas don't necessarily have to follow the rules. Now is the time to vary things up. Don't worry if your items aren't exactly the same; a pro will tell you they shouldn't be.
“Gone are the days when walls had to be super symmetrical or bedside tables had to match,” says Sam. “2024 is the time to embrace natural variation and more relaxed layouts to create spontaneity in any space. Mix and match shapes, sizes, heights and textures to bring variety into your decor.”
No more matching nightstands, matching cushions, etc. Consider this your cue to get a little creative.
3. Avoid bold colors and try softer shades
(Image credit: @thistle.harvest)
Pantone's color of the year is “Peach Fuzz,” and overall, other small space color trends are leaning toward muted tones, including neutrals for Scandinavian design and calming, nature-inspired hues for small bedrooms.
“Embrace timeless wall trends like linen whites, soft neutrals, muted greens and soft blues. Pair them with bold accessories to stay on trend without spending time and money on fresh paint,” says interior designer Nicole Karam, founder of Colour Caravan.
Light walls allow you to play around with rich hues and vibrant patterns in the rest of the room, but designer Artem Khlopovinskiy warns against overdoing it unless maximalism is your thing.
“Use bold patterns sparingly,” he says. “They're great for accent pieces, but too much can be overwhelming.”
But if you really want to incorporate different hues, experts have shared how to use 2024's color of the year without paint. Success!
Nicole Caram is an interior designer, color expert, and professional organizer from Taos, New Mexico. She is the creative founder of Color Caravan, a line of stunning hand-painted wallpapers, textiles, and home décor.
Artem Kropovinsky is an interior design professional and founder of Arsight, an award-winning interior design studio based in New York.
4. Eliminate the dedicated telecommuting area and make it more multifunctional
(Image courtesy of Little Greene)
We're always interested to hear how you can freshen up your small office, but according to Anna Karp, CEO and co-founder of renovation company Bolster, the home office of 2024 will look pretty much the same.
“With the rise of remote and hybrid work, there's a focus on creating flexible spaces that can accommodate different needs throughout the day,” she says. “Instead of allocating square footage to a single use, the emphasis is shifting to multi-functional spaces.”
Think of it as a more natural way to incorporate a corporate mindset into your space without having to completely control one area.
Anna Karp is co-founder and CEO of Bolster, a design and construction company that is disrupting the home renovation industry with transparent project costs.
5. Ditch the uniform backsplash and add a focal point
(Image courtesy of Pluck)
Subway tile is growing in popularity and shows no signs of slowing down, but according to Houzz senior editor Mitchell Parker, subway tile and other types of backsplashes are due for an upgrade in 2024.
“To visually break up the expanse of tile, some Houzz designers are installing stone or quartz slabs behind the stove or countertop, while leaving the surrounding backsplash area tiled,” he says.
Often the slate will match your kitchen countertops, gently drawing the eye to a focal point. And best of all, it's easy to wipe clean. (And if you're interested, here's how to avoid being overwhelmed by small kitchen clutter.)
And if your design brings something that you can't get anywhere else, even better: originality.
“While initially garnering attention at European design shows, custom features and personalized elements are now evident in the most popular U.S. photos on Houzz,” Mitchell added.
Peel and stick gel backsplash tiles metro
Gel peel and stick mosaic tiles
price: Set of 4 $31.43
Mitchell Parker is a Public Relations Specialist at Houzz, specializing in architecture, interior design, and decor. Mitchell regularly speaks with top home building and design professionals on Houzz, reporting on everything from their inspirations to how to most productively collaborate with homeowners using Houzz Pro. He frequently appears on Houzz TV Live, a video series reporting on the latest home remodeling and design trends.
Ready to get started? You're ready!
“With plenty of expert insight on what to avoid in the new year, it's time to say goodbye to outdated interior trends and designs and revitalise your home with a blend of popular design, individuality and classic design principles,” says Sam.
Challenge accepted. So, if you don't mind, can I hand you the toolkit?
FAQ
What are the outdated home decor trends for 2023 and 2024?
Above all, interior designers agree that outdated interior trends result in spending money on furniture that lacks quality and functionality. What's more, trends that stray from organic, individual styles, such as matching furniture sets and pure white colors, are falling out of fashion.
What interior design trends do you foresee for 2024?
According to design experts, we'll see vintage accents, pastel colors, nature-inspired pieces, less intense maximalism, and the use of multifunctional pieces in 2024 interiors.
Once you've got your style figured out, it's time to get organized. We asked experts for their best, most efficient ideas for organizing small spaces so you can make every inch of your home your own. A messy room doesn't make for a stylish space, and that's a big no-no for the coming year.
