Bruno Pugh
Boomers had a way of turning everyday spaces into perfectly curated displays of tradition and taste. But as lifestyles and priorities shifted, so did design trends. What was once a hallmark of style or necessity is now seen as outdated—or even downright impractical. Let’s look at some of the habits that have quietly fallen out of favor.
Matching Furniture Sets
Walking into a room where everything’s a perfect match feels like visiting a furniture showroom. Today’s spaces pair things up—vintage finds with modern pieces, unexpected colors, or different textures. It’s less “straight from the catalog” and more personally curated.
Hanging Heavy Drapes and Curtains
The era of dark, heavy window treatments blocking out natural light is fading fast. Sure, some still love those, but current design trends largely celebrate brightness and bring a lot of sunlight in. Simple panels or smart blinds offer privacy when needed without turning rooms into dark caves.
Using Wall-to-Wall Carpeting
Once considered the height of comfort, this flooring choice is not as popular as it used to be. Families with toddlers put them in the bedroom, but otherwise, not so much. Between hidden allergens and impossible-to-remove stains, most modern homes opt for hardwood or luxury vinyl.
Collecting Fine China
Behind those glass cabinet doors sit memories of special occasions that rarely came. Modern entertaining, however, prefers durability and actual use. Practical, dishwasher-safe pieces that work for both takeout Tuesdays and holiday dinners make more sense now.
Having Formal Living Rooms
Remember that room nobody was allowed to use? The one with plastic-wrapped furniture and forbidden sofas? Today’s homes can’t spare the space for a museum-style setup. Every room pulls its weight, whether as a home office, gym, or actual living space.
Excessive Lawn Care
Weekends spent battling weeds and chasing the perfect grass are becoming a thing of the past. Modern homeowners are ditching chemical-heavy maintenance for native plants and natural landscapes. These sustainable yards need less water and support local wildlife.
Opting for Avocado Green Kitchen Décor
That signature ’70s shade haunted kitchens for decades. Today’s approach favors timeless materials and neutral backgrounds that age gracefully. Personality comes through in easily changeable elements, not permanent fixtures in questionable, sharp colors.
Using Overstuffed Recliners
Recliners haven’t gone out of style; they’ve just gone from being throne-sized to compact and portable versions. Contemporary designs prove relaxation doesn’t require a massive scale. New recliners offer the same comfort while playing nicely with other furniture instead of dominating it.
Plastic Covers on Home Furnishings
Remember the sound of peeling yourself off a plastic-covered couch? Thanks to advancements in fabric technology, we no longer need to rely on plastic coverings. Stain-resistant materials mean furniture can handle real life without being wrapped like leftovers.
Hanging Decorative Plates
Somewhere between curating gallery walls and welcoming minimalism, decorative plates lost their spot above the sofa. Modern walls showcase more personal choices. Art that speaks to personal experiences rather than following prescribed, conventional decoration rules.