5 Outdated Interior Design Choices That Make Designers Cringe

Some interior design trends were once the pinnacle of home fashion—but time has not been kind to them. Designers today seek timeless aesthetics, cohesive layouts, and quality craftsmanship. Yet, some outdated trends refuse to fade away, causing designers to wince when they step into a home.

From poorly placed lighting to mass-produced décor, here are five outdated interior design choices that make designers cringe—according to industry experts.

1. Poorly Placed Lighting That Misses the Mark

Though light can transform an entire room, poorly done light can render an otherwise perfectly designed space to feel uninviting.  Whatever it is from a single harsh overhead light to mismatched accessories or shadowed corners, the worst lighting ranks among the top design flaws. "Lighting is more than just visibility; it creates warmth, improves décor, and sets the mood," said Melinda Woodruff, owner of Rogue Home Interiors and an interior designer.  "Inadequate lighting can leave a space looking gloomy and uninviting, while an overly bright fixture can make it feel sterile."

Use layered lighting, which combines ambient, task, and accent lighting, to create balance. Use lamps or sconces to soften dark areas, install dimmable alternatives for flexibility, and replace harsh fluorescents with warm LEDs. Well-considered lighting improves a space in addition to making it brighter.

2. Generic Mass-Produced Wall Art

Large, mass-produced canvas prints and overused word art—yes, we’re looking at you, Live, Laugh, Love—are among the most ridiculed design choices by professionals.

“Wall art should draw the eye in and create a connection, not feel like an afterthought,” Woodruff said. “Generic prints and banners from big-box stores don’t make a room unique.”

Instead of mass-produced décor, consider investing in framed photographs, original artwork, or textured wall hangings that add character and dimension. Even thrifted or DIY art can offer a more meaningful and stylish alternative.

3. Oversized Furniture in Tiny Spaces

Few things disrupt the flow of a room more than furniture that doesn’t fit. Oversized sofas, massive sectionals, and bulky coffee tables can make a small space feel claustrophobic.“Ever walked into a space where the furniture seems to have been chosen for a mansion instead of a modest home?” asked Woodruff. “A royal-sized sofa in a studio apartment leaves no breathing room—literally or visually. Bigger isn’t always better.”The key to a well-balanced space is proportion. Choose pieces that complement the scale of the room and allow for an open, inviting layout. 

4. Rugs That Are Too Small (or Too Big)

A rug can anchor a space, but when it’s the wrong size, it throws off the entire composition. One of the most common design offenses? A tiny rug floating awkwardly in a sea of furniture.“When a rug fails to connect a seating area, it makes the whole space feel disjointed,” Woodruff said. “The rug should tie the room together, not look like an afterthought.”A good rule of thumb: The front legs of your furniture should sit on the rug. If a rug is too small, upgrade to a larger size or layer it over a jute or sisal rug for added texture.

5. Cheap Materials in an Otherwise Luxurious Space

Quality matters, and designers can instantly spot cut corners—especially when budget-friendly furniture is mixed into a high-end setting.“It’s like pairing a Chanel dress with bargain-bin sneakers,” Woodruff said. “There’s a noticeable disconnect when expensive homes are filled with low-quality pieces.”Common offenders include faux wood finishes that peel at the edges, exposed screws, and furniture that looks mass-assembled rather than crafted. Investing in well-made, timeless pieces—whether vintage finds or high-quality modern designs—elevates a home’s aesthetic and longevity.

The Bottom Line

Interior design should evolve with time, but some trends hold homeowners back. If you’re looking to refresh your space, start by replacing outdated elements with modern, thoughtful alternatives.“Design is all about balance, harmony, and thoughtful curation. While a few quirks and personality-driven choices can add charm, there’s a fine line between intentional eclecticism and design disasters that make even the most seasoned designer cringe.” Woodruff said.By focusing on proportion, material quality, and meaningful décor, you can create a home that looks effortlessly stylish—without making designers cringe.