Aurelia Butler

While there are plenty of vintage design trends on the rise, there are some design pros feel should stay in the past.We spoke to several interior designers on the outdated design features they do not want to see make a comeback. Patterned wallpaper, antique mirrors, wooden accents—vintage design features are making a comeback in homes everywhere. Gone are the days of the all-white kitchen and the finely curated minimalist living room. Homeowners are embracing the “lived-in” look, and designers are loving it. While the resurgence of trends from decades past is an exciting opportunity to blend the old with the new, there are certain features designers say should not be brought into the modern home. So before you hop on the vintage train, read on for 9 outdated design features pros believe should stay in the past.Overly Coordinated SetsJuan Maria Coy Vergara//Getty ImagesOne or two pieces of vintage furniture can add charm to any room, but when there’s a few too many, the space might end up feeling outdated.”I love vintage ‘brown furniture,’ especially heirloom pieces that tell a story. But what I don’t love are overly coordinated sets—like a dining table, chairs, sideboard, and china cabinet all in the same finish, or a bedroom with a bed, nightstands, and dresser that perfectly match. A single vintage piece, or even two, can anchor a room beautifully and add character. But when everything matches, it quickly feels overdone and visually heavy,” says Meghan Jay of Meghan Jay Design.Tiled CountertopsHomeowners are embracing unique patterns and bold hues, making colored tiles an exciting choice. While they might be visually appealing on walls or floors, they might not be as practical on other surfaces, particularly countertops. “I’ve heard whispers of them making a comeback, and maybe—just maybe—they could work in a small powder bath. But in kitchens and full baths? They’re a cleaning nightmare. I lived with them in a house after college and can confirm: grout lines and daily use do not mix,” says Peggy Haddad of Peggy Haddad Interiors. Related StorySponge Paint Sure, we may have collectively taken a step back from the bland gray and white color scheme when it comes to home design, but if you’re hoping to embrace a new hue, stay away from sponge paint. “Faux finishes from the ’90s can stay in the archives. If you want texture and depth, limewash, plaster, or other artisanal wall treatments create a much more elevated look,” says Haddad.Popcorn CeilingsGarrett Unno//Getty ImagesPainted ceilings? In. Popcorn ceilings? Out—permanently. “Popcorn ceilings never make a comeback, and for good reason. They trap dust, flatten light, and lower the perceived value of a home the moment you walk in. Smooth, clean ceilings open up a room and let every design choice shine,” says Lauren Saab of Saab Studios.Related StoryCarpeted Bathrooms Rugs in all sorts of patterns and textures are welcome in a vintage-inspired home. However, carpet, especially in this space, is a no-go. “Carpet in bathrooms should stay firmly in the past. It holds moisture, traps odor, and never feels truly clean. Tile or stone brings the same softness underfoot when paired with a rug, without the hygiene headache,” says Saab.Maximalist BedroomsMaximalism is taking over home design—trends like dopamine decor and grandmacore even stem from the larger interior design style. Homeowners are craving a personalized space, but designers warn against going full force when it comes to the bedroom.”I have found that many clients seek peace, serenity, and a quiet place to rest in their primary suites. While the ‘more is more’ approach works in spaces that are meant to be dynamic and bold, bedrooms covered in wild patterns and loud colors are antithetical to getting sound, recuperative sleep,” says Andy Yates of Andy Yates Design.Glass BlocksJodiJacobson//Getty ImagesThey certainly look vintage, but glass blocks are not the natural light solution they once were. “Glass blocks had their moment, but let’s be honest—they rarely add beauty to a space. They end up feeling more like a dated, utilitarian fix than a design choice. Today, there are far more elegant ways to bring in natural light while maintaining privacy and safety,” says Jay. Shiny Yellow Brass Designers agree: shiny yellow brass instantly dates a home. “Brass itself is classic, but that overly yellow, lacquered version? It doesn’t need a revival. Unlacquered, aged, or burnished brass feels timeless instead. Say yes to patina,” says Haddad.”Instead of adding character, it makes a room feel stuck in the past. Warmer finishes like unlacquered brass or matte bronze bring in the same metallic interest without ever looking out of style,” adds Saab.Orange Polyurethane Oak Floors Wood tones and accents, whether used for flooring, furniture or simply decor, are on the rise. Still, that doesn’t mean all tones bring that same vintage feel. “I love that warm oaks are trending again, but the orange-red polyurethane finish? That one should stay firmly in the past. Matte, natural stains highlight the beauty of oak without the heavy orange cast,” says Haddad. Related StoriesLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates.  More

While it’s common to make your bed right after waking up, experts actually recommend giving your bedding time to air out.Our Good Housekeeping Institute cleaning expert shares why and reveals how long you should wait before making your bed.As a home editor, it’s no surprise I take home organization and cleanliness pretty seriously. And there’s one thing I absolutely cannot stand—an unmade bed. Once I’m up, the first thing I do is neatly straighten out my sheets and comforter, fluff my pillows, and move on with my day. It’s almost automatic at this point. When I heard that you actually shouldn’t make your bed immediately, I took it hard. What do you mean I’m supposed to leave the room with an unmade bed? Skeptical, I reached out to our cleaning expert at the Good Housekeeping Institute for backup. Read on for the reasoning behind why you shouldn’t make your bed right away, how long you should wait, and more mattress cleaning tips. Why You Should Wait to Make Your Bedsalez//Getty ImagesIt’s normal to sweat throughout the night, which leads to moisture buildup on your sheets and pillows. When you make your bed right away, you’re not giving your bedding any time to air out. “If you sweat at night, there’s dampness there and the bedding is warmed from your body heat, so you want to give it a chance to dry out and cool off before making the bed. Allergens, like dust mites, and germs, like bacteria, thrive in warm, moist conditions,” says Carolyn Forté, executive director of the GH Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab.How Long Is Long Enough? If you make your bed right away (like me), the good news is you don’t have to change your morning routine too much. By the time you’re done with your morning cup of joe, it should be okay to resume your bed-making habits.”Pull down the covers a bit and remove and fluff the pillows. Then in about 30-60 minutes, it should be good to make. You can always give the sheets a feel to make sure they’re dry,” says Forté. “Making the bed everyday is an important step to keeping your home organized and tidy and a good habit to get into.”Related StoryHow to Keep Your Mattress CleanWhile airing out your bedding every morning will help you avoid excess moisture buildup, there are a few other tactics you can try as well. “To keep the mattress and pillows clean and dampness free, I recommend using pillow liners and mattress pads for extra protection,” says Forté. “Some are even moisture-resistant.”Regardless of how you make your bed or the type of bedding you use, you should still clean your mattress regularly. That means using the upholstery tool on your vacuum cleaner to remove any dust, steaming it with a garment steamer to kill dust mites, and spot-cleaning stains throughout.Related StoriesLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates.  More

Grandma’s house is full of vintage charm, especially when it comes to the kitchen.Designers reveal the antique items hiding in grandma’s kitchen that may be worth a lot of money. A trip to grandma’s house typically involves a home cooked meal in the heart of the home: the kitchen. While it might be difficult to keep your eyes off the main course, you should take a closer look at the surrounding china and decor. Whether it’s vintage glassware, embroidered linens, or cast iron cookware, there are probably a few items hiding in grandma’s kitchen that are worth a lot of money. Ahead, designers reveal the valuable antique finds and collectibles you might not even know are there. Read on for 14 hidden gems to keep an eye out for next time your munching on grandma’s homemade cookies. Cabbageware ChinaQuirky cabbageware china is having a moment. “These colorful, highly detailed ceramics are increasingly collectible. Majolica pieces from the 19th century can go for high prices, while Bordallo Pinheiro’s whimsical designs have surged in popularity, especially among younger collectors. Dodie Thayer’s cabbageware is especially prized—handmade and harder to find, her pieces can command significant sums at auction and from collectors,” says Liz Williams, founder and principal designer of Liz Williams Interiors.Related StoryVintage PyrexJennifer Tabb//Getty ImagesStill a household name today, it’s no surprise older Pyrex pieces can be worth hundreds. “Mid-century Pyrex in patterns like ‘Butterprint,’ ‘Gooseberry,’ and ‘Pink Daisy’ have a cult following. A complete nesting bowl set in great condition can go for $250–$600, and some rare Cinderella casserole dishes have sold for over $1,000. Bonus points for lids and anything in turquoise, pink, or limited runs,” says Heather French of French & French Interiors.Jadeite GlasswareIf grandma loves colorful design, chances are she might have jadeite glassware lying around. “These iconic green mixing bowls were once a staple in Americana kitchens, and some pieces in pristine condition fetch hundreds. We love their cheerful color, which evokes a playful yet timeless feeling, and of course reminds us of being in our grandmother’s kitchen,” says Sara Hillery of Sara Hillery Interior Design. Sterling Silver FlatwareWirestock//Getty ImagesWhile it definitely depends on the brand, grandma’s vintage sterling silver flatware shouldn’t be overlooked. “That fancy silverware pulled out only on holidays? It could be worth its weight in, well, silver. Brands like Gorham, Wallace, and Towle can fetch $800–$8,000+ for full sets, depending on the pattern and weight. Even mismatched pieces can bring $30–$80 each,” says French.Related StoryPancheonsA pancheon—or a wide, shallow mixing bowl—is another hidden gem to look out for. “Originally used for bread-making or separating cream, these weighty earthenware bowls are both practical and sculptural. With their rich glaze and gentle wear, they make striking centerpieces,” says Kate Cox of HÁM Interiors. Valencia Culver GlasswareBest known for their decorative glassware, Valencia Culver is a classic. “Valencia Culver glassware has seemed to maintain its popularity throughout the years and can definitely fetch a pretty penny. Again, it is most valuable if it comes in mint condition, and in full sets,” says Kate Pearce of Kate Pearce Vintage.Vintage LinensStefania Pelfini la Waziya//Getty ImagesThat decorative doily or table runner could be worth more than you think. “Hand-embroidered tea towels, aprons, and tablecloths in good condition can sell for $20–$100 each, and full sets or pristine pieces go even higher. Stylists and collectors snap them up fast. I’ve been collecting these since I was a teenager, and not only are they worth more, but the quality of the fabric is just better for the day-to-day in a kitchen,” says French. Milk GlassTypically white or off-white in color, milk glass is often used for tableware and other decorative items. “Produced in the late 19th and 20th centuries by companies like Fenton, Westmoreland, and Anchor Hocking, milk glass pieces—especially hobnail vases, cake stands, and covered dishes—are now highly collectible. Rare patterns and well-preserved sets often sell well above their original prices,” says Williams.Related StoryCopper MoldsVoisine//Getty ImagesUsed to bake cakes and make Jell-O, copper molds were a go-to back in the day. “Copper molds and pans are also worth keeping on your radar. Whether hanging from a rack or styled on a shelf, they’re as decorative as they are practical,” says Cox.Jean Roger FrogsWhether placed on the windowsill or used as a charming centerpiece, Jean Roger’s frog planters are certainly eye-catching. “Jean Roger’s whimsical ceramic frog planters, especially mid-century pieces made in Paris, are beloved by collectors for their playful designs and artistry. They come in many different colors and sizes and have become highly sought-after decorative accents, often fetching impressive prices at auction or in antique shops,” says Williams. Antique Dough BowlsOften handcrafted from a single piece of wood, antique dough bowls are typically used for mixing dough and letting it rise. “These seemingly simple, hand-carved bowls are highly sought-after and will never go out of style. They are especially popular at the moment, as they fit into nearly any design style from minimalist to eclectic to farmhouse, and add such a great organic vibe to the kitchen,” says Pearce.Cast Iron CookwareVICUSCHKA//Getty ImagesCast iron cookware is undeniably charming, even if it requires a bit more scrubbing to keep clean. “An ultimate cooking pan, if by certain brands like Wagner or Lodge (made in the beginning of the 20th century), is more superior to the ones made today and is not only valuable, but also cooks better,” says Evan Krenzien and Pierce Jordan of Shane & Pierce.Depression GlassIronically, depression glass—once made to be inexpensive—is now considered a valuable collectible. “Despite its humble origins, originating in the Depression Era, this colorful glassware is beloved for its nostalgia and historical significance. These very collectible pieces come in a variety of colors, with specific rare patterns and colors which can surprise in value,” says Hillery.Crystal StemwareCyndi Monaghan//Getty ImagesDepending on the condition, crystal stemware—especially as a full set—can sell for quite a bit. “Traditionally speaking, when couples got married in the past, it was time to give them items like crystal stemware. It’s strictly for entertainment purposes, and many of these items have a very high value,” says Alexandra Azat of Plaster & Patina.Let’s Go AntiquingLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates.  More

Interior designers have been saying it for a while: Minimalism is out and colorful, lived-in interiors are taking over. That’s why lately creators on TikTok are embracing the “Messy Girl” aesthetic, a home style that prioritizes personal expression, imperfections and curated clutter. The trend contrasts the ultra-polished “Clean Girl” aesthetic, where minimalist and uncluttered interiors reign superior. The “more is more” philosophy is all about intentionally layering colors, patterns and textures. The rise of messy girl aesthetic follows the resurgence of ’90s fashion and home trends, with many comparing the chaotic home style to iconic characters like Friends’ Phoebe Buffay and Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw.”The messy girl aesthetic—it’s effortlessly stylish, a little disheveled, and completely captivating,” says Carla Royder, an interior designer. “It’s the vibe that says you’ve got better things to do than obsessively fluff pillows. It’s about harnessing the allure of lived-in spaces without teetering over into full-on chaos.”To learn more about the messy girl aesthetic, I tapped content creators who have gone viral for embodying the trend, plus interior designers to get their advice for pulling off the look. What is Messy Girl Aesthetic? The messy girl aesthetic is a viral trend that romanticizes an imperfect, carefree lifestyle. The popular design style is similar to maximalism, where individuality is expressed through layering bold colors, patterns and textures. “I’d describe it as a collection of memories, passions, and personal interests, like a living museum of yourself,” says Melody Verkerk, the content creator behind @SaltyyMelody. “It’s less about following trends and more about surrounding yourself with things that tell your story.” Think curated clutter, like eclectic trinkets scattered around a room, a colorful gallery wall or one too many crochet pillows on the bed. “It’s a junk journal come to life,” says content creator Susie, whose most viral videos are showing her “messy” bedroom. “Everything has been collected or created over time and every item has a memory attached — from a market stall on holiday, foraged from a flea market, handmade long into the night, handed down from beloved grandparents, or picked up on a beach.” @sus.ie@sus.ieWhy Are People Embracing Mess?People (and design experts) are ditching minimalist interiors and leaning into personalized spaces. A curated collection of home decor items—what some may call “clutter”—makes a space feel inviting and cozy. “People want to express individuality more than ever,” says Verkerk. “The messy girl vibe offers warmth and personality. For me, it brings joy. I love admiring my things—rearranging them, flipping through books, picking up a perfume bottle just to smell it. Everything has a story, and that creates such a sense of home.” “There is joy in individualism,” agrees Susie. “We are bombarded with posts on the value of being ‘your authentic self’ in terms of looks and self-expression—and it’s extended into our homes. We are no longer made to feel that minimalism is the gold standard, but that creating a home that reflects our personalities and captures the stories of our lives is important.” @ saltyymelodyHow to Pull Off the Messy Girl AestheticThe golden rule of the messy girl aesthetic in one word: Intentionality. “This look may be carefree, but it’s not careless,” says Royder. “If your space is drowning in last night’s takeout containers, streaked with abandoned coffee mugs, or has tissues scattered like fallen leaves, that’s not messy girl chic—that’s just messy.” Follow this expert advice to craft a messy girl space that is perfectly imperfect: Rely on stylish trinket dishes and trays. “It’s about making clusters of clutter around your room,” says Susie. There’s a difference between untidy mess and aesthetic mess—and you should be able to find things when you need them.Make the bed. “Your bed can be slightly undone, but you still need to set the scene,” says Royder. “Toss a lovely throw blanket over it and fluff the pillows just enough.”Try linen bedding. “Linen is the queen of the casually luxurious look,” says Royder. “Its naturally wrinkled texture is more charming than a perfectly pressed sheet set.”Hang oversized art. “One large, dramatic piece of art can anchor your room and draw the eye, especially if it features bold, surprising colors. Prop it against the wall rather than mounting it—effortless, remember?” says Royder. Mix patterns with purpose. “Combine stripes, florals, and geometrics, vary the scale and keep one shared color running through,” says Lauren Saab, founder of Saab Studios. Don’t overthink it. “Whatever you’re drawn to, whether or not it matches, will naturally come together because it reflects you,” says Verkerk.What’s Trending in Home DesignAlyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries. More

You’ve seen countless homes with a simple tiled kitchen backsplash, a tiled bathroom floor or even a tiled fireplace surround. But now? Homeowners are thinking a bit more outside of the box. They’re embracing unexpected tile applications, and the latest example is tile drenching. The concept is simple: Cover or “drench” a room (or most of the room) in tile for a dramatic effect. You can pick the same tile or a few different tiles with similar colors or patterns. Imagine a bathroom with floor-to-ceiling tile or a kitchen backsplash that extends all the way to the ceiling. “Drenching a space in tile creates architectural coherence in a way that feels both effortless and grand,” says designer Erin Williamson of Erin Williamson Design. “From an aesthetic perspective, simplifying materials unifies a space and lends a sense of permanence because it presents a single, definitive point of view.”Amy Courtney Design; Photo: Alexander Severin“In this bath, seafoam green tile with ship motifs wraps the ceiling and tub surround for a fully immersive feel,” says designer Amy Courtney. Photo by: Alexander SeverinWhy Is It Popular Now? So why is this specific design trend all the rage now? For one, it’s about practicality. It removes the frustration that comes along with choosing multiple materials. “Repeating the same tile greatly reduces the number of choices needed when designing a space – it’s almost impossible to make a mistake since every choice coordinates with itself,” says Williamson. Plus, any room can benefit from the eye-catching look, according to designer Aimee Meisgeier of AM Interior Design. “Tile drenching works in both large and small areas,” she says. It’s also in line with similar buzzy design trends, including color and pattern drenching, Meisgeier adds. “It provides the same opulent and stylish look that the latter two trends achieve in a space, both which have proven to be so well liked in recent years,” she says. “It was only a matter of time before tile drenching followed suit as well!”How to Nail the TrendHere, pros share some tips to keep in mind when putting the tile drenching trend to the test in your own space. Choose your tiles wisely. “The key is selecting a tile with tonal variation or texture, like a hand-glazed or embossed finish, to avoid a flat effect,” says Courtney. Meisgeier agrees, sharing that if she’s using multiple tiles in a space, she picks the dominant one first: “I start to conceptualize a tile drenching design by finding a tile that I know I want to use as the main focal point in the space,” she says. “Once that has been determined, I look for other tiles that have complementary colors to achieve balance.”Don’t overlook durability. “Because it’s being permanently installed on multiple surfaces, it’s critical to ensure your chosen material is rated for use on all of them. For example, a significant amount of wall tile can’t be used on floors. Likewise steam showers, outdoor spaces and materials that transition to countertops, all require special consideration,” says Williamson. “If you’re designing a bathroom or kitchen, steer clear of porous or highly textured stones that can be hard to clean or absorb moisture. Beautiful design should always live hand in hand with how a space is actually used,” says Britany Simon of Britany Simon Design.Related StoryPick the right space. “The tile drenching approach works best in contained spaces like powder rooms, showers and bath niches, where you can lean into bold design without overwhelming the space,”says Amy Courtney of Amy Courtney Design.Think floor-to-ceiling. “Using a decorative tile floor to ceiling is one of my favorite ways to make a small space feel more intentional and visually cohesive. It draws the eye upward, creating the illusion of height while also adding that extra layer of design detail that makes the space feel thoughtfully styled and complete,” says Simon. Highlight a room’s quirks. “Unusually shaped rooms with low sloped ceilings or dormers are a great opportunity to transform an awkward space into something special,” says Williamson. “It seems counterintuitive, but a lack of contrast between materials can actually create the perception of a larger space by blurring the edges and contours of the room.”Aim for a “jewel box” treatment. “If you’ve ever worried about going too dark or fanciful in a highly visible space, a small enclosed room is the perfect place to go bold and create an immersive jewel box moment. After all, who doesn’t love opening a door to a grand and unexpected surprise?” says Williamson.More Design TrendsMonique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand’s home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, “What’s in My Cart.” More

The formal living room is an elegant space for entertaining, often filled with high-end furniture, artwork and lighting to create a welcoming first impression. Your grandma’s house—with plastic sofa covers and fragile knick-knacks—might come to mind. While the family room is for casual everyday use (think watching movies or playing board games with the kids), the formal living room is typically reserved for adult-only gatherings or special holidays. Formal living room design has evolved—many have become more flexible and multifunctional to accommodate modern lifestyles, but interior designers still advise clients to rethink this outdated room. I recently asked over 15 interior designers to share their honest take on the rooms that are most overrated, and the majority of them agreed: Formal entertaining spaces are rarely used. “Formal living rooms are at the top of the list — beautifully furnished, barely touched,” says Olivia Botrie of Dart Studio. “In most homes, they become museum spaces that gather dust.””The room that’s often the most expensive to decorate beautifully—and the most underutilized—is the formal living room,” agrees Nancy Davilman, principal designer of ND Interiors. “The formal living room is a holdover from our parents’ era, when it was the most cherished and protected room in the house.” Designers Are Ditching These Popular Home FeaturesWhile formal entertaining spaces might look beautiful, they get very little use unless you’re frequently hosting large events. Even during holidays or small family gatherings, people tend to avoid these overly formal setups. “Most families gather in kitchens, around islands, or in more casual great rooms,” says Cathleen Gruver of Gruver Cooley. Still, interior designers often receive requests for formal living rooms. “Clients with young kids often say they want ‘an adult space,’ but when it comes down to it, they rarely leave the kitchen or family room to use it,” says Davilman. “Now that we live in a more casual society, the days of the formal living room are largely behind us, unless the room features something special, like a great bar or pool table, that actually entices people to gather there.” Just because the formal living room has become obsolete, doesn’t mean you can’t design two distinct living areas. Rethink these formal spaces. Instead, consider crafting practical rooms that can be used on a regular basis.Vostok//Getty ImagesEmily Rand of Emily Rand Interiors tries to steer clients in a different direction. “Converting these extra rooms into more functional areas like a bar room, cozy den, or game room tends to serve homeowners much better.”Think of multifunctional spaces that are arranged with flexibility in mind. “Spaces that can evolve—like a media lounge that doubles as a guest room—tend to get the most real use,” says Botrie. Related StoriesAlyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries. More

Client Challenge

JavaScript is disabled in your browser.
Please enable JavaScript to proceed.

A required part of this site couldn’t load. This may be due to a browser
extension, network issues, or browser settings. Please check your
connection, disable any ad blockers, or try using a different browser. More