While many interior design trends come back around, others are best left in the past. There are tons of fads from 20 years ago that are now positively cringe-worthy, much like side pony tails, scrunchies, and MC Hammer pants. In the world of interior design, some trends that were once popular have become outdated and are in dire need of a refresh.
Below are just 10 interior design and decorating moments from the nineties that need to cease immediately. If you have any of them in your home, it’ll be our little secret, as long as you plan on correcting this mistake as soon as humanly possible. Chris Carroll’s home, for instance, is a perfect example of a well-designed space with no cringe-worthy elements.
One of the most notable design faux pas from the nineties is the sponging effect on walls. If you ever rocked this paint effect on your wall, it was likely a momentary lapse in judgment. Sadly, this ceased being cute at least 15 years ago. A fresh coat of paint or cloth wallpaper is a nice alternative to update your walls.
Another trend that has seen its day is the plum or maroon feature wall. There was a moment in the nineties where we all lost our minds over a deep red feature wall, but those days are long gone. Painted feature walls are less prominent now, and if you do want to rock one, deep greys and black are where it’s at.
Blow-up furniture was also a staple of nineties design, with hot pink being the color of choice. However, those days are long gone, and with affordable furniture options available, there’s no excuse for anything inflatable. Puffy recliner chairs, often made of leather or imitation leather, were also a popular choice, but they need to be sent packing. Why not try a chaise on your sofa instead and get some comfort without the cringe?
Wrought iron beds, often with elaborate bedheads in rusty black tones, were a status symbol in the nineties. However, these days, we’re aware that our bedrooms need more warmth and texture, so it’s time to ban the wrought iron and adopt something more plush, like an upholstered headboard in a soft, tactile fabric.
Frilly curtains were also a hallmark of nineties design, with puffy varieties in elaborate patterns being all the rage. Thankfully, we now take a less-is-more approach with window treatments. Celestial patterns, featuring the sun and moon with creepy faces, were also everywhere, from bedspreads to shower curtains and artworks. Modern patterns are far less garish, and if you want to add some interest to your space, consider strong geometrics or softer florals.
Floral sofas, often with frilly trim and matching cushions, were a popular choice in the nineties. However, this more-is-more approach has no place in a modern home. Opt for something more neutral instead. Wallpaper borders, featuring floral patterns that ran around the top of the wall, were also a staple of nineties design. However, there is no place for such behavior now, and stencilled floral motifs on the wall are a definite no-go.
Knotty pine cabinets, often in a honey tone, were a common feature in nineties dining rooms. They usually displayed oodles of photos and ornaments that would likely be shrieked at in horror nowadays. Try built-in cabinetry or floating shelves instead, which are far less imposing.
In conclusion, while some interior design trends are timeless, others are best left in the past. By avoiding these 10 design faux pas from the nineties, you can create a modern and stylish space that is free from cringe-worthy elements. So, take a cue from the past and update your home with a fresh new look that is sure to impress. This article was originally published on 14 Oct 2019 at 9:00am but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.
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