6 Décor Trends Designers Are Tired of Seeing—and What They're Loving Instead

With the influx of TikTok aesthetics and Pinterest boards, trends seem to go big faster than you can say home décor. They also change—or sometimes, completely flip upside down—within just a few years.

Of course, there's no harm if you genuinely appreciate a trend. However, interior designers are among the first to notice décor that's done out of assimilation rather than self-expression. Here, they share the trends that they're secretly tired of seeing—plus, what they suggest doing instead.

Modern Farmhouse Décor

Modern farmhouse style has become so popular in recent years that you can walk into a store and buy pretty much everything you need for your home in one trip. "It often feels more like a preset than a personalized design," says Linda Hayslett, principal designer and founder of LH Designs.

Instead, she prefers a layered approach that travels back in time. "I recommend blending materials, eras, and influences to create rooms that feel collected and authentic, rather than tied to one label," she says.

Light Wood Furniture With Bouclé

Many designers still appreciate bouclé for its softness and texture—but its current use feels overdone.

"Light woods feel out of step with the current movement toward bolder, warmer spaces, and look especially dated when paired with bouclé upholstery," says Madelaine Mayer, founder of ADROIT Architecture & Interior Design. "Bleached oak, ash, and maple [now] feel lackluster compared to richer, darker species, such as walnut and mahogany."

Mayer suggests investing in darker vintage furniture complemented by chenille for a more unique, retro-inspired look. "Try a rich mohair, a velvet, or a thick-textured weave that will still provide that same cozy, sophisticated warmth—without trying so hard to be trendy," says Emily LaMarque, principal and founder of Emily LaMarque Design Studio.

Matte Black Hardware

Matte black became the default finish in new-build homes thanks to its modern touch—but it no longer provides that wow factor.

"When every kitchen and bath reaches for the same flat black pulls and faucets, the look can feel predictable and stark," says Jennifer Cataldo, interior designer and founder of Maison Cataldo. "Using an aged brass or unlacquered brass feels more nuanced. These finishes patina beautifully over time and add depth without demanding attention."

Beige on Beige Décor

Design trends tend to teeter-totter between embracing maximalism and minimalism. In past years, people have favored the latter by opting for monochromatic brown and beige spaces. "Instead, I prefer building depth through varied textures, warm woods, subtle contrast, and tonal shifts that keep the space calm, while still visually engaging," says Hayslett.

Cataldo leans toward materials like linen, wool, and plaster to bring in more depth. "Adding colors like olive or a deep wood finish to a room of neutrals brings richness and contrast," she says.

All-White—Or All-Moody Spaces

Stark white interiors of the 2000s were followed by an influx of dark, moody palettes. However, either end of the spectrum can feel sparse when not properly styled.

"While color drenching is still an emerging trend, it has the opportunity to feel rich and warm, along with moody," says LaMarque. "When spaces are overly minimal and feel exceedingly restrained, they can feel sparse and cold, despite embracing colors and textures."

LaMarque recommends adding a few antique, unexpected pieces; incorporate texture or pattern on the walls, floors, and ceilings. Faced with an all-white kitchen? "A washable rug, enamel small appliances, and vintage ceramics are great ways to begin," Mayer says.

Chimney-Style Range Hoods

Appliances have the ability to make a kitchen stand out or fall flat. Unfortunately, chimney-style range hoods often fall into the second camp.

"Repeating the same focal element in every kitchen can limit creativity and function," Hayslett says. "Instead, I like to explore integrated or custom hood designs—plaster, wood, or panel-ready options feel tailored to the architecture, and allow the overall composition of the kitchen to remain balanced."