Most interior designers initially welcomed the “open concept” layout for homes. So free, so open, so much flow is what they thought… and then real life set in.
The truth is that we all need a bit of privacy now and then, and open concept homes make it hard to get a bit of alone time. This becomes even more obvious if you have children or work from home. Another very real issue with open concept layouts is that given the large area required to heat or cool, they’re not the most energy-efficient.
The Tired Accent Wall
An accent wall was used to bring out a single, specific wall in a house. And while this wasn't an entirely bad idea, it was certainly overdone. Besides, people slowly started to realize that the trend of having a single wall covered in snappy wallpaper or painted a different color just seemed tired.
In fact, it almost started to look as if the person couldn't finish the job due to budget cuts or lack of interest. Just do yourself a favor and leave the accent walls in the past.
Let’s Leave the Outside Furniture… Outside
Using rattan (plant material from palms) to create wicker furniture is one of the oldest furniture-making techniques. And while we appreciate the craftsmanship required to create these pieces, they just don’t belong inside.
In the backyard? Fine. On your porch where you sit around sipping sweet tea? Even better. But please do not bring wicker furniture into your home. Let's not even talk about how difficult it is to clean, with dust accumulating in between the weaves. If you grew up in the South, you know exactly what we're talking about!
An End to the Industrial (Design) Age
There was a time when many thought it would be so cool to live in a converted factory or another type of industrial space, complete with exposed pipes, industrial lighting, and even old brick walls. While this design theme can occasionally look really good, it has been overdone.
Architects and interior designers are no longer just converting existing industrial spaces, they’re choosing the style’s distinctive features in newly constructed buildings too. Industrial-style designed homes can also come off as being cold with metal pipes and concrete floors.
No More Home Offices
This entry may be controversial as there are people who will defend the need for having an in-home office. There was a time when many people had what many referred to as a “computer room” with a bulky desk and an even bulkier computer.
Today, however, most computers are smaller and lightweight, giving us flexibility when it comes to where we work. Want to draft that report by the pool? Send that email from the kitchen while you eat? No problem. There's no longer a need to use a room for one sole purpose.