To ensure your home remains stylish and contemporary, there are several updates you might consider. These range from replacing outdated kitchen lighting to choosing timeless furniture. Importantly, you’ll also want to evaluate your flooring, as it significantly influences the ambiance and theme of your space. Given that new flooring is a significant investment, it’s crucial to avoid installing styles that are considered outdated and may soon date your home.
To guide us through outdated flooring trends to avoid, we’ve consulted five home and design experts. Here, you’ll find their exclusive insights shared with Onions Australia, helping you identify trends to move away from. We’ll also provide tips on how to refresh your floors on a budget.
It’s time to stop mixing different flooring materials in one space
In many homes, the main level features a mix of flooring types, like hardwood or carpet in the living room and tile or vinyl in the kitchen and entryway. Terri Brien, owner of Terri Brien Interiors, explains to Onions Australia that this trend was popular due to concerns about wood’s durability in kitchens. “Clients worry about wood failing in the kitchen or sustaining water damage, so they transition to tile or stone,” she says. However, Brien believes this trend is outdated, as changing materials mid-space can compartmentalize the home, making it feel smaller and less cohesive.
Brien advises using the same flooring material throughout the main level. “Historic homes and museums in Europe have had the same wood floors for centuries, proving wood’s durability with proper care,” she notes. While selecting hardwood for your kitchen, consider that some woods are more durable than others. Choices like hickory, brown maple, and white oak offer durability, while engineered hardwood with a waterproof barrier can address moisture concerns.
Using small floor tiles in small bathrooms can disrupt the flow
If your bathroom floors are covered with small tiles, it might be time for a change. Brien suggests moving away from this outdated design choice. “The belief that small bathrooms require small tiles is outdated. Don’t disrupt the flow by switching to smaller tiles in compact spaces,” she advises. Instead, choose larger tiles for a seamless and modern look, even in small bathrooms. Larger tiles reduce grout lines, creating a more spacious appearance, and continuing tiles up the walls can enhance this effect.
Hand-scraped wood flooring doesn’t vibe with modern design trends
Hand-scraped wood flooring, once trendy, is now considered outdated. These floors feature manually scraped planks to add texture, but Brien points out that this look is dated and lacks the refinement of today’s finishes. “Hand-scraped wood flooring screams early 2000s,” she says. Instead, consider matte brushed options, such as wire-brushed wood, which offers a modern and forgiving finish.
Keep in mind that wire-brushed floors may require more effort to clean due to their textured surface, but they provide a stylish and durable option for your home.
It might be time to replace that gray, muted flooring
While gray has been a classic color in interior design, its overuse has led to a stale and dated appearance, especially in flooring. Brien explains that overly muted gray flooring, including wood, laminate, vinyl plank, and wood-look tile, is out. Instead, she recommends warm tones like honey or soft brown wood. These colors offer a timeless appeal and can be a great alternative to gray flooring.
If replacing your gray floors isn’t an option, consider using complementary wall paint colors or large rugs to shift focus away from the gray and modernize your space.
Imitation distressed and reclaimed wood floors have had their moment
Imitation distressed and reclaimed wood floors were popular for achieving a rustic look, but Brien notes that these styles can date a home. Instead, she suggests using authentic reclaimed wood flooring, which adds character without appearing themed or outdated. Working with a reputable flooring company can help you achieve this authentic look.
Genuine reclaimed wood offers unique patterns and imperfections, unlike mass-produced imitation options. If a full installation isn’t feasible, consider incorporating distressed wood in furniture or accent walls for a rustic touch.
Glossy finishes are being replaced with matte, satin, and textured options
Glossy flooring, once popular for its light-reflecting properties, is falling out of favor due to its tendency to show scratches and dust. Instead, experts recommend matte or satin finishes, which offer subtle elegance without overwhelming the space. Textured flooring is also a great option for a natural look and improved grip.
Consider styles like tumbled stone or encaustic tiles with matte finishes for a contemporary update that enhances the overall aesthetic of your home.
It’s time to replace that old laminate flooring to update your space
Laminate flooring, once a budget-friendly staple, is now considered outdated compared to options like hardwood or vinyl plank. Bertha Sanchez suggests luxury vinyl planks (LVP) and tiles (LVT) as modern alternatives, offering a high-end appearance at an affordable price. Vinyl’s water resistance and sustainability make it a great choice for various spaces.
All-white or stark black tiles have got to go
Solid black or bright white tiles, once seen as luxurious, can now feel harsh and uninviting. Laura Brophy recommends opting for softer, nature-inspired tones like warm taupe, creamy beige, and muted terracotta. Consider using materials like limestone or travertine for an organic and welcoming atmosphere.
If a full replacement isn’t possible, temporary options like peel-and-stick tiles can provide a budget-friendly update.
Wood-look tiles aren’t as appealing as the real thing
While wood-look tiles offer low maintenance, they often lack the warmth and charm of real wood. Bryonie Brooks suggests considering natural wood or cork flooring as eco-friendly alternatives. These materials offer sustainability and comfort, making them ideal for various living spaces.
For moisture-prone areas like bathrooms, Brooks recommends sustainably sourced engineered wood or eco-friendly luxury vinyl that mimics wood with a lower environmental footprint.
