Is your bedroom a cozy sanctuary or a time capsule from decades past? Our personal spaces should reflect who we are today, but sometimes outdated decor can make a room feel more like a blast from the past than a restful retreat. If you’re wondering whether your bedroom could use a modern makeover, read on. Here are 20 telltale signs that it’s time to bring your sleep space into the present day.
20. Your Walls Still Boast Bold ’70s Floral Wallpaper
If your walls are adorned with vibrant, oversized floral patterns reminiscent of the 1970s, it might be time for an update. While vintage motifs can be charming, these loud wallpapers can overwhelm a space and make it feel dated. Consider replacing them with a fresh coat of neutral paint or opt for modern, subtle wallpaper designs that add texture without taking over the room.
19. Wood Paneling Dominates Your Room
Once a staple of mid-century design, extensive wood paneling can make a room feel dark and confined. If your bedroom resembles a vintage cabin, think about painting the paneling in a light color to brighten the space. Alternatively, removing it altogether can reveal hidden architectural features and open up possibilities for contemporary wall treatments.
18. Popcorn Ceilings Haven’t Popped Out Yet
Textured popcorn ceilings were popular for their ability to hide imperfections, but today they’re more of an eyesore than an asset. Besides collecting dust, they can make a room look outdated. Smoothing out the ceiling or installing decorative panels can instantly modernize your bedroom and make it feel cleaner and more spacious.
17. Heavy Chintz Curtains Block Your Windows
Thick, floral chintz curtains may have added elegance in the past, but now they often just block natural light and date your décor. Swap them out for sheer drapes or minimalist blinds that allow sunlight to brighten your room. Modern window treatments can enhance your view and create an airy ambiance.
16. Matching Bedroom Furniture Sets the Stage
While a perfectly matched furniture set was once the hallmark of a well-appointed bedroom, it can now make the space feel monotonous. Mixing and matching pieces adds character and a personalized touch. Consider incorporating a statement headboard, eclectic nightstands, or a vintage dresser to break up the uniformity.
15. A Waterbed Still Makes Waves in Your Space
If you’re still rocking a waterbed, it’s a clear sign your bedroom is stuck in the ’80s. Not only are they less supportive than modern mattresses, but they can also pose practical issues like leaks. Upgrading to a memory foam or hybrid mattress will enhance your comfort and bring your bed up to contemporary standards.
14. Shag Carpeting Covers Your Floors
Shag carpeting might evoke a sense of nostalgia, but it can trap allergens and make a room feel outdated. Consider replacing it with hardwood floors, laminate, or modern low-pile carpeting. Adding an area rug with a subtle pattern can provide warmth and style without overwhelming the space.
13. A Bulky Tube TV Sits on Your Dresser
An old CRT television not only takes up valuable space but also dates your bedroom instantly. Upgrading to a flat-screen TV can free up room and offer a sleeker look. If you prefer to keep technology out of the bedroom, consider removing the TV altogether and reclaiming your dresser for decorative or practical use.
12. Brass Bed Frames with Ornate Details
While brass bed frames with intricate designs were once a sign of elegance, they can now make a bedroom feel stuck in a bygone era. Modern bed frames tend to favor clean lines and understated materials. Switching to a wooden or upholstered frame can create a contemporary focal point for your room.
11. Frilly Canopies and Ruffled Bedspreads Adorn Your Bed
Canopy beds draped with lace and ruffled bedding might recall fairy-tale aesthetics, but they can also make a room feel cluttered and old-fashioned. Opting for simple, high-quality linens in solid colors or subtle patterns can create a serene and modern sleeping environment.
10. Your Room is Awash in Pastel and Peach Hues
Color schemes dominated by pastels and peach were all the rage in the ’80s and ’90s. To refresh your space, consider introducing a modern palette—think neutral tones accented with bold colors or earthy shades that promote relaxation. Even a fresh coat of paint can dramatically change the room’s atmosphere.
9. Artificial Plants and Dried Flower Arrangements Decorate the Room
While low-maintenance, artificial plants and dusty dried flowers can make a space feel lifeless. Bringing in real, easy-to-care-for plants like succulents or peace lilies can add a touch of nature and improve air quality. Alternatively, modern sculptures or artwork can provide visual interest without the upkeep.
8. Mirrored Closet Doors Reflect the Past
Once considered a luxurious feature, floor-to-ceiling mirrored closet doors can now seem tacky and outdated. Replacing them with sleek wooden doors or installing frosted glass panels can update the look. If you still want the functionality of a mirror, consider hanging a decorative full-length mirror elsewhere in the room.
7. Ceiling Fans with Ornate Designs and Pull Chains
Ceiling fans featuring intricate designs, brass finishes, and pull chains can date your bedroom’s décor. Modern fans with minimalist designs and remote controls offer improved functionality and style. Some even include integrated lighting options to further streamline the room’s appearance.
6. Knick-Knacks Clutter Every Surface
A collection of trinkets and souvenirs can quickly turn from charming to cluttered. Reducing the number of items on display not only modernizes your space but also creates a more peaceful environment. Select a few meaningful pieces to showcase and store or donate the rest.
5. Lace Doilies and Crocheted Accents are Everywhere
While handcrafted items have sentimental value, an abundance of lace doilies and crochet can make a room feel stuck in the past. Incorporating contemporary textiles like chunky knit throws or geometric-patterned cushions can honor your appreciation for texture while updating the look.
4. An Old Flip Clock Radio is Your Alarm
Flip clock radios might be a nostalgic nod to the ’70s, but technology has come a long way. Upgrading to a sleek smart alarm clock can offer multifunctionality with features like voice assistants and customizable displays, adding convenience and modern flair to your nightstand.
3. Vertical Blinds Cover Your Windows
Common in the ’80s and ’90s, vertical blinds can make a room feel institutional rather than inviting. Replacing them with Roman shades, bamboo blinds, or even motorized window treatments can enhance your bedroom’s aesthetic and provide better control over light and privacy.
2. Bulky Armoires and Massive Dressers Fill the Space
Oversized furniture can dominate a room and make it feel cramped. Consider downsizing to sleeker storage solutions like built-in closets or minimalist dressers. This not only frees up space but also gives your bedroom a more open and modern feel.
1. Faded Art Prints from Decades Ago Hang on Your Walls
Artwork is a reflection of personal taste, but faded prints or outdated posters can detract from your room’s appeal. Refresh your walls with contemporary pieces that resonate with you today—whether that’s a canvas from a local artist, a framed photograph, or even your own creations.
