REAL SIMPLE - 5 Dated Decor Pieces You Should Swap Out ASAP, According to Designers

Do you feel bored with your home or think things are starting to look dated? It could be because they are. If it’s been a while since you refreshed your space with new furniture or decor, your home might just need an update. But what should you replace first? We asked interior designers what they think—here are five things you need to swap out in your home right now.

‍

Word Art

Word art had a moment, but that moment is over now. Contemporary abstract painter Jessie Read advises swapping out your Live, Laugh, Lovesign for chic coastal pieces. “Swap out statement art pieces and give your walls a fresh overhaul with coastal artwork in a combination of calming colors like white, sea blues and greens, and sand. Replace stark white painted walls with blue undertones with neutral colors like grey or beige to make your home feel more serene and welcoming,” she says.

If new art isn’t in your budget, consider having prints or canvases made from those gorgeous photos you took at the beach on your last vacation. It doesn’t have to be professional, as long as you choose something meaningful to you.

Not into the coastal vibes aesthetic? Does it not quite work with your home? Amanda Leigh at House of Rolison suggests textured paintings as a unique replacement for statement art.

Cold Neutrals

Alex Mutter-Rottmayer and Austin Carrier from Hommeboys Interiorssay we’ve all been playing it safe with cold neutrals, and it’s time for something a bit different. “Think lots of cool and cold neutrals, a lot of grey, subtle if any print. Homes are really craving the warmth they have been missing! Time to swap the grey and greige paints and finishes for warmer neutrals and richer colors.”

Whether it’s paint on the wall, bedding, pillows, or furniture, even changing up just a few neutrals in your home can make the entire space feel fresh and updated.

9 Beautiful Neutral Paint Colors That Aren't Plain White

Unlacquered Brass

Like most gold hardware, unlacquered brass has been on-trend for several years now. While Mutter-Rottmayer and Carrier say this finish is beautiful, if you’re looking to level up, your home might benefit more from unique finishes like verdigris. Verdigris has an aged, antique look that gives cabinetry or desks a vintage, historic feel.

Keep in mind this doesn’t mean you have to search your local antique shop or visit an estate sale. (Who has time for that?) Many stores that sell hardware, like Perigold, have accessible and affordable options.

Neutral Furniture

Mutter-Rottmayer and Carrier suggest it’s time to swap out your neutral linen furniture pieces. “Try a deeply hued mohair or printed jacquard for a moodier, cozier interior,” they advise. If you still love your current furniture and it's in good condition or have a limited budget, reupholstering could be a good option.

We Asked an Expert: How Much Does It Really Cost To Reupholster a Couch?

Angled-Leg Furniture

Unless a piece is authentically mid-century modern, angled-leg tables and chairs can look dated and uninteresting. Swap out those pieces for something with a beaded leg instead. Beaded legs add texture and a sense of sophistication. They’re an ideal way to add a traditional touch to contemporary rooms.

‍