Home additions and upgrades are often driven by online trends, but not every design idea is built to last. What looks beautiful on social media doesn't always hold up in real life or in your budget. The best rooms feel timeless, personal, and functional and aren't filled with expensive features that will become outdated or impractical in a few years.
Designers say it's worth thinking twice before committing to certain design trends that promise an instant wow factor but don't add lasting value. Here are some popular home additions you wouldn't mind making, and what you can do instead if you want your investment to pay off.
Curved sofas
They can be found everywhere lately, from living rooms to design showrooms. Curved sofas make a bold statement, but this sculptural look comes at a price, both in terms of comfort and durability.
“Curved sofas are everywhere right now, but they're extremely trendy and will definitely be outdated in a few years,” says Emily LaMarque, founder and CEO of Emily LaMarque Design Studio. “While they often look architecturally impressive and add a lot of personality to the room, they are not particularly comfortable, cozy, or nap-friendly, and they will likely be one of the first pieces to be replaced.”
Cheap prefabricated vanities
It's easy to save on bathroom costs, but inexpensive prefabricated vanities often show their price over time. The materials and workmanship rarely withstand daily use.
“Cheap and generic prefabricated vanities can be tempting as a way to keep costs down on a small bathroom renovation, but often you get what you pay for,” says LaMarque. “There are many affordable prefabricated vanities that are both beautiful, functional, and decently made, and will both look and function better in the long run. But you can always opt for a pedestal sink or a good vintage cabinet and turn it into a vanity.”
Overlap walls
Shiplap has long established itself as a popular feature for adding character, but designers say it's one of those elements that's starting to get tired. Installation is also surprisingly complex – and expensive.
“Shiplap is an architectural element we've seen a lot of in recent years, and while it can definitely add character, charm and layers to a room, it can be costly to install and paint properly,” says LaMarque. “The lap needs to be perfectly flat, the wall behind it needs to be reasonably flat, and it should definitely be sprayed with an extra smooth finish to get it looking right. If the cost of installing it correctly is out of your budget, consider skipping the lap and opting for a more creative color, a unique piece of art, or even wallpaper with a great print or texture.”
Decorative bows
From furniture pieces to entryways, arches have been popping up everywhere, adding a soft, sculptural touch to spaces. But not the architecture of every house can naturally support the appearance.
“Arches are something we're seeing a lot these days — arched doors, arched cabinets, arched furniture pieces and decorative arched details,” says LaMarque. “While some architecture, such as 1920s Spanish Colonial homes, feature continuous arches as a consistent style feature, trendy arches can quickly become a visual highlight that elevates your home in time. Classic lines with subtle details that are timeless will withstand time and age more effortlessly.”
The “Instagram Pantry”
Perfectly labeled jars, color-coordinated baskets, and rows of decanted cereal may look satisfying, but these pantry items require serious maintenance. Designers say the look doesn't always reflect most people's everyday lives.
“I would say that the 'Instagram pantry' – the hyper-organized type with glass jars everywhere – is a trend that doesn't always justify the cost,” says Lesley Myrick, CEO and lead designer of Lesley Myrick Interior Design. “It looks great in photos, but requires constant care and isn't realistic for most families. A well-designed pantry should focus on smart storage (yes, it can still be pretty!) and workflow first; beauty naturally follows when function is chosen.”
Oversized lavish bathtubs
Large freestanding bathtubs look luxurious in photos, but don't always fit into everyday life – or into the bathroom.
“Another addition to my home that I would skip is the oversized state bathtub that rarely gets used,” says Myrick. “They look luxurious, but most customers admit that they end up being more decorative than functional. I always advise my customers to invest in what they use regularly, like a spacious walk-in shower or a custom vanity that will enhance everyday life. However, if you're a tub lover, just install this beautiful freestanding tub and enjoy it.”
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