13 Home Renovation Trends That Age Terribly in Indiana Homes

Indiana homeowners are no strangers to weekend projects and renovation shows.

The urge to keep things modern and stylish is strong, but trends can turn quickly. That “wow” feature wall or sleek finish might look tired before the decade is even over.

These are the renovation trends that seemed like a good idea at the time but haven’t aged well at all.

All-Gray Interiors

Gray was once seen as the ultimate modern neutral. It gave homes a sleek, uniform look that felt current and clean.

But over time, many people have found that too much gray can feel cold and lifeless. It lacks the warmth that helps a space feel like home.

As warmer tones return to favor, homes drenched in gray are starting to feel dated.

People now want cozier spaces with more personality and color.

Barn Doors

Sliding barn doors became a favorite feature in renovations, especially during the rise of farmhouse-inspired design.

They were charming, space-saving, and added a rustic flair.

But they don’t always function well. They don’t offer full privacy, they can be noisy, and the sliding mechanism can wear down or get stuck.

If you’re thinking of adding one, consider whether a pocket door or traditional swing door might serve your needs better in the long run.

Overly Open Floor Plans

Tearing down walls to create one big open space used to be the dream for it made homes feel larger and encouraged more light.

But living without clear boundaries can become impractical. Noise carries more, smells spread quickly, and there’s little privacy when everyone is in the same space.

Many homeowners are now looking for semi-open layouts instead.

Adding back features like sliding panels, arches, or partial walls can bring function back without closing everything off.

Vessel Sinks

Vessel sinks had a moment of fame for their bold, sculptural look.

But they’re not as practical as they seem. They splash easily, are harder to clean around, and can be uncomfortable to use depending on the height.

Many designers have moved away from vessel sinks in favor of under-mount or integrated sink styles.

These offer a sleeker look and better functionality.

Faux Wood Tile

Tile that mimics the look of wood took off as a practical alternative to hardwood. It offered durability and water resistance.

But the illusion doesn’t always hold up. Grout lines can break the visual effect, and low-quality prints often look unnatural over time.

As real wood and luxury vinyl plank options improve, faux wood tile has started to feel like a compromise. It rarely delivers the warmth or authenticity homeowners are really after.

For long-term appeal, many are turning to engineered wood or better-quality vinyl that balances realism with resilience.

Shiplap

What started as a charming nod to vintage farmhouse design became a design default in many homes. Shiplap showed up on walls, ceilings, islands, and even fireplace surrounds.

The problem is that it lost its charm through overuse. What once felt rustic and unique now feels repetitive and overly themed.

Shiplap also doesn’t translate well to all architectural styles. In more modern or traditional homes, it can clash rather than complement.

Today’s trendsetters are choosing simpler wall treatments like limewash, panel molding, or textured paint to create visual interest without relying on overdone shiplap.

Accent Walls

A bold accent wall once felt like an easy way to add drama. People painted one wall in a bright color or covered it in wallpaper to give the room a “wow” factor.

But trends move quickly, and what once felt exciting can now feel jarring.

Accent walls can also limit future decorating choices. It’s harder to switch up your look when one wall is demanding all the attention.

If you still want a focal point, consider a more timeless approach like textured paneling or subtle paint variation in the same color family.

All-White Kitchens

For years, white kitchens were the gold standard. White cabinets, white subway tile, and pale countertops gave homes a clean, modern look.

But all that white can start to feel sterile. It shows dirt easily and lacks the warmth that makes a kitchen inviting.

Today, designers favor a bit more contrast. Natural woods, mixed metals, or soft earth tones bring life and texture back into the kitchen.

You don’t have to scrap everything. Even small updates like a warmer backsplash or darker hardware can make a big difference.

Industrial Lighting

When the industrial trend took off, exposed bulbs and metal fixtures became a go-to for a modern, urban look.

But these fixtures often give off harsh light and can make a space feel unfinished. They also don’t blend well with other styles, making them hard to pair with cozy or traditional decor.

Many homeowners are now choosing softer lighting options with natural materials or hidden bulbs. These bring warmth without sacrificing style.

If your current lighting feels too stark, try replacing one fixture at a time to gradually shift the mood of your space.

Faux Finishes

There was a time when faux finishes were all the rage. People sponged, rag-rolled, and glazed their walls to mimic textures like stone or aged plaster.

But most of these finishes looked more like arts and crafts than high-end decor. Over time, they tend to look messy, dated, or even dirty.

Today’s homeowners are leaning toward clean lines and authentic materials. Simplicity now feels more luxurious than a complicated paint job.

If your walls still carry a faux finish from a past renovation, painting over it with a smooth, neutral tone can instantly modernize the room.

Busy Backsplashes

Backsplashes used to be a background feature, but during the renovation boom, many became the main event.

Loud patterns, mosaic tiles, or multicolor glass made a big visual splash.

Unfortunately, these bold choices can quickly feel overwhelming. They often compete with other elements in the kitchen and limit your options for future updates.

Many homeowners are now shifting toward simpler backsplashes that blend in rather than stand out.

Clean lines and neutral tones allow for more flexibility over time.

Concrete Countertops

Concrete countertops became popular as a modern, industrial alternative to stone. They offered a customizable surface and a trendy, minimalist vibe.

But they come with downsides. Concrete is porous and prone to staining. It can also crack over time, especially if not properly sealed and maintained.

What started as a bold design choice can end up feeling like more work than it’s worth. It’s also not as timeless or widely appealing as granite or quartz.

If you’re looking for durability and long-term value, there are other materials that offer the same look with fewer headaches.

High-Gloss Cabinets

High-gloss cabinets once symbolized sleek, modern luxury. They reflected light beautifully and gave kitchens a polished, almost futuristic feel.

But they also show every fingerprint, smudge, and scratch. Keeping them looking clean can feel like a full-time job.