Which 5 Living Room Styles Going Out of Style, According to Designers in 2025

Living room styles, much like fashion, are always evolving, with each year bringing fresh trends and phasing out old ones. Although certain looks may be falling out of favor, it’s important to remember that design is ultimately about personal preference. Trends serve as inspiration rather than strict guidelines, and what matters most is creating a space that feels uniquely yours.

Here, we dive into five living room trends that designers believe are on their way out—and why.

1. All-Gray Interiors

Gray was everywhere in recent years, especially after Pantone crowned “Ultimate Gray” as the 2021 Color of the Year. Gray-on-gray interiors became the go-to choice for minimalist, modern spaces. However, designers now see a shift away from these monochrome schemes, which many find too cold and one-dimensional.

Amy Leferink, founder of Interior Impressions, explains, “Gray is versatile, but people are moving towards warmer tones and bold colors that add life.” Interior designer Rashmi Patel adds, “While gray has its place, entire gray spaces can feel flat and lack warmth. Adding color can make a space more inviting and dynamic.”

2. Midcentury Modern Overload

Midcentury modern design has become a staple for its clean lines, retro charm, and simplicity. It’s still widely loved, but designers are seeing a decline in its popularity as it’s now so pervasive it’s beginning to feel predictable.

“Midcentury modern is iconic, but it’s become a bit formulaic and feels less special as everyone is using it,” says Christiane Lemieux, a design historian and owner of Lemieux Et Cie. However, Leferink notes that the style’s versatility might help it see a comeback in the future. “Its simplicity can pair well with contemporary updates,” she says.

3. All-Neutral Palettes

Neutrals have long been favored for creating calm, serene spaces, but entirely neutral palettes are becoming less appealing as people crave a bit more personality in their homes. Patel encourages homeowners to move away from strictly neutral tones and add more moodiness and depth.

“Muted, moody colors bring warmth and character,” Patel says, recommending a blend of neutrals with deep hues to achieve a balanced look. “A home should reflect who you are, so don’t be afraid to incorporate colors that tell your story.”

4. Exaggerated Farmhouse Style

The rustic, shabby-chic farmhouse style became a sensation in the early 2000s, largely thanks to design icons like Joanna Gaines. However, highly distressed wood, burlap accents, and ultra-rustic elements are now less in vogue. The “overdone” farmhouse aesthetic can feel out of place in modern homes, according to designers.

“Modern farmhouse has refined itself, blending rustic touches with contemporary elements,” Leferink explains. “Heavy rustic styles can feel dated, so pairing them with cleaner lines or minimalist decor can create a fresher, more balanced look.”

5. Overly Curated Finishes and Faux Luxuries

Design trends in the ‘90s featured sponged walls and Venetian plaster, both of which fall into the category of faux finishes that designers are ready to see left in the past. Additionally, overly ornate furniture and overly curated finishes that aim for a sense of opulence can end up feeling excessive rather than elegant.

Instead, Lemieux advocates for a more personal approach to design, saying, “True elegance comes from rooms that feel like they’ve grown organically, filled with items that hold meaning rather than fitting perfectly into trends.” Creating a space that looks lived-in, with memories embedded in the decor, adds a timeless appeal that can’t be achieved with fleeting design trends.

Final Thoughts: Personalize Your Living Space

While some trends may be fading, the beauty of design is that it can be whatever you want it to be. Use these insights as inspiration, but focus on creating a living room that feels like home. Whether you’re updating to warmer tones, experimenting with muted palettes, or blending rustic elements with modern decor, remember that your space should ultimately be a reflection of you.